Evening on the Longing River

Who stands at the head of the Longing River,

does he hears the exotically beautiful melody

by the forlorn riverbank?

Longing for whom, is the music so full of sorrow?

As the evening slowly descends,

birds return to their nests.

Someone waits for another,

in the misty haze of dawn....

A boat drifting...

to some unknown destination.

The river's waters stretch endlessly,

blending with the evening's fading light.

Who’s on the Longing River,

His shadow reflecting on the waters in the long night. 

By the forlorn riverbank,

Here and there, the sound of a heron's cry.

Smoke and mist gently floating – a poetry-inspiring sight. 

Rows of trees standing still along the shore.

The sound of a flute rising in the lonely night.

With notes high and mournful.

Oh who, when will you turn back,

Waiting for loneliness to call your name?

This evening by the riverbank,

a boat anchored in longing for whom... 

by Yên Sơn

translated by Vương Thanh, 01.11.2023