Autumn evening, watching a yellow leaf falling.

It drifted along with the wind to a far and misty place. 

The sight suddenly stirred my heart with homesickness.

My old beloved home -  so far away.

Watching the rain, feeling melancholic and lonely. 

The boat in the sea swaying in the waves and wind.

Swept along by life's currents, time kept flowing.

Suppressed memories overflowing my heart to the brim.

Watching the boat departing from a lonely shore.

Feeling a winter chill rising in my heart and soul. 

I long for the warm hearth and cozy home. 

Abound with tender love and gentle passion.

Watching the solitary birds fluttering in the wind.

Not knowing where they will fly to.

Walking alone with soundless steps on the sand. 

Reminiscing the past years of longing and affection.

The departee hope to return to the homeland

Following the paths of yesteryears.

Many loved ones waiting and longing for one’s return. 

Memories of love that never fade away.

by Kim Phụng 

translated by Vương Thanh,  11.2023