Distant Shore Longing

No regrets since the beginning,

and no remorse after the day of parting.

When we suddenly gaze at each other, and think of

the old promises, and dreams of the future.

But those years swiftly pass like fleeting clouds,

like a rainbow after a light drizzle.

Why hold on to past love and keep dreaming forever?

Time doesn't stand still for endless waiting and anticipation.

When night falls and the lonely cricket’s sound echoes,

I wander in the region of forgotten memories.

Tears fall easily but no longer with a salty taste.

For these dry lips are thirsty with longing for love. 

Late night, sound of raindrops falling on the window sill. 

Resigned sorrow for the unhappy fate of separated lovers in this life. 

A star falling, two distant shores of longing. 

The moon shines on the Milky Way river which flows forever.

But the boat has moved on and waits for the old shore no longer. 

by Ngô Huy Khánh Trân  

English translation by Vuong Thanh, 12.2023