The bees and the flowers

Bees by Luo Ying

No matter whether in the valley or the hills,
Without limit all air and light, occupied.
Sucking flowers by the hundreds, afterward transformed into honey:
For whom do you toil? For whom this sweetness?

Luo Ying changed his name from Luo Huen, 'huen' means rude and unreasonable. Because he was very ugly, proud, and made sarcastic comments to people, no one liked him. 'Ying' means low-key, hidden. He took his society exams ten times and failed each time. Finally he became a municipal officer and did the people much good.

My mom taught me the saying: chien ren zong shu; hou ren cen liang.
Former people plant trees; later people enjoy the shade and cool.

Jianghu Cherry Blossom

No. 1

Spring cherries in peak bloom, flowing hued clouds.
Jiang City, dotted in colors, a million houses.
Several trees, dazzling crystal, as if covered in jade snow.*
This part's grace and beauty is like the plum flower. **

*a few trees had white flowers, these few trees were in front of an elementary school
**the plum flower is my country's flower, when you stay in a foreign country, you think about home

Strong hospitality

Woodpecker by Zu Qinyu

Thud thud towards evening rapid then plodding.

Having pecked every Pagoda tree* in the garden, still won't leave. 

All day long, ridding of pesky bugs for you.

Do not scold, "Lacking business, why don't you fly off?"

*my mom told me about the phrase point the finger at the mulberry; angry at the Pagoda tree--basically scold one person when you're mad at someone else.

Chapter 10: Kogai - where I stayed close to Port of Tokyo, close to the Embassy. I rented a room and the landlord were so kind and hospitable: they always made me breakfast that was nutritious and delicious. The landlady wouldn't take money for board, only rent, saying, "I'm not a restaurant." For seven years, they never increased my rent. 1964-1971.

Senze Room

Becoming neighbors once again, arriving in Fusang.*

The room in Senze, cannot forget:

Lining the house, pine trees form a pretty color,

Outside the window, orchid plants give off subtle fragrance. 

Arranging pillows and mats: Cenfan's bed.

Displaying musical instruments and books: Dupu's study.

The most leisurely day off,

An old man happily tells of the navy returning home.

*another name for Japan

I wrote this poem to describe the area. I lived in Senze once before and this time I came to live in Kogai. Because of how nicely the landlord treated me, it reminded me of the time I lived in Senze.