Verses Lady Li Yi’an Writes In Her Diary

(after her husband's return from war. Jinhua, China, 1124 C.E.)

Outside, frost whitens the grass.

The lilacs might die and the wind’s lips

will not taste of their sweetness. But you lie

in the perfumed field of my hair. Like night’s darkness

it feels soft and comforting

* * *

Wistful with the moon

holding her mirror to my face, I think of how

I've missed you, each day hanging my silk robe

on a hook next to yours. The closet in its red lacquered wood

still inhaling your scent and mourning the loss

of your shadow.

Now you have come home to Jinhua

trying to wear your familiar self

but the fitting is strange. More a garment of mist

than durable cloth. And I cry

hearing a strong wind disturb the stillness

of the bamboo chimes.

* * *

Dawn’s candle is dim

peering through our curtains. I rise first

and open the window. A fighting thrush

rests in the green willow near our house

and looks toward me. She will not sing

knowing you must wake in silence, slowly returning

from dreams of dust and ruin.

* * *

Your sword sleeps in its sheath,

your armor wrapped and tucked in a drawer.

Just a man walks in the garden

crossing a foot bridge that leads

to an island of pines. Water hums beneath; and I sketch you

armed with deep humility.

_________________________________________________________________________

Li Qingzhao, also known as Li Yi’an, is one of the most famous poets among Chinese women of high rank who wrote verse during The Song Dynasty in the 12th century. At a time when women were discouraged from writing and instructed to center their interests on the home, their children and husband's needs, she was determined to make a place for herself in a male, dominated field. Her poetry is celebrated for its original imagery, emotive language and lyrical pathos.

About the author

Wendy Howe is an English teacher and free lance writer who lives in Southern California. Her poetry reflects her interest in myth, diverse landscapes, and ancient cultures. Over the years, she has been published in an assortment of journals both on-line and in print. Among them: The Copperfield Review, Silver Blade Magazine, The Poetry Salzburg Review, Eye To The Telescope and The Orchards Journal. Her most recent work will be forthcoming in Carmina Magazine and Polu Texni later this year.