STILL ADRIFT
Though there be a driving rush, a blast
Though there be a movement with ease, a breeze
Though the creak's wide, never denied
Though the creek's narrow, let it be so:
Though there be a sun, a shining one
Though there be a rain, a falling drain
Though there be a moon, a radiating dome
To the likes of those, married or in celibacy
Or though there be a moon, so dark and dreary:
When lovers are together,
Or when they are parted from one another;
When all fresh are the budding, blooming flowers,
Or when there be weariness as ever:
Floating down lower and lower, and over and over,
Rising up again and again, farther and farther;
Ma Beda, in the tidal waters,
Is still adrift, adrift as ever.
Zawgyi
(University of Rangoon Annual Magazine, 1957-1959)
Water hyacinth
