Jeong Ho-seung's poem (11)

There are also Wounds on Blades of Grass

Translated by Brother Anthony and Susan Hwang

There are also wounds on blades of grass,

there are also wounds on petals.

As I walk along the field paths

where you and I once walked together,

when I sit by the field path

and gaze at the glow of sunset

wounded blades of grass

wave their hands.

Petals with many wounds

smell sweetest.

This poem proclaims the universality of wounds, not as a source of sorrow but as a source of compassion, fellowship and beauty. It is impossible to go through life without being hurt. The speaker recalls a past time when “you and I” were together. Separation has happened, bringing pain, but the grass and petals wave and waft fragrance in welcome, teaching that wounds make flowers and people sweeter.