Jaihoon’s poem delves into the complexities of love, questioning its sacrifices and inevitable betrayals in a rhythmic cascade of inquiries.
Hey, lover!
Why drink this poison?
Why die in this arson?
Why yearn for this pain?
Why jump before this train?
Why lose sleep?
Why fall this steep?
Why dig your grave?
Why be so foolishly brave?
Why wander in thought?
Why be of the mad lot?
Why bear this insult?
With Reason, never consult?
Love is a violent hook,
Tears heart’s every nook.
It is the bait of death,
Of his peace and health.
Love is the silent pain,
Tears for which flow as rain.
Love is the bow
And the arrow.
Love is deep
And even shallow.
Love is the king
But can even poverty bring.
The greater you love,
The more pain you have.
Your beloved will wish for
This fire to burn you more.
She will take on you no pity,
She wants this calamity.
Hey, lover!
Why be the convict
And the victim too?
May 22 2010