Kim Pook Sik. (1075—1151 A.D.)
The earliest historian of Korea, he was author of the “Sam-gook Sa” or History of the Three Kingdoms (1145 A.D.). He was also a fine soldier. His height is recorded as seven feet. In the year 1134 A.D. a rebellion broke out. Kim was appointed general of the forces sent to suppress it. A grand audience was held at the palace on the day before he left. The King gave him a battle axe and other insignia.
Moonlight and peace upon the river bank!
After an audience at the Dragon Throne
How kind to me this gentle silence seems!
After gay silken robes and waving fans
How restful is the stately tapestry
Of willow boughs against the rising moon!
After the splendors of the painted roof
How soft I find the dim blue distances Unfolded from the gauze veils of the moon!
Peak upon peak, blue tinted hills of dream
Arise to break the far horizon line.
There would my soul fly, greatly needing rest.
Yet here is much of beauty, much delight. Remain awhile, my soul. The river sings, Sweeping below the wall on which I lean.
I am disquieted by the heavy task That lies before me.
In the Willow Inn
Beside the river I will rest tonight.
I’ll drink a little wine and soon forget
These troublous thoughts.
More brightly shines the moon.
The King has given me a battle axe.
Under the willows on the river bank
A midnight angler swings his bamboo pole.
His is a tranquil spirit, well content.
He is like Too Mok-joo who, long ago,
Came, before death, to leisure and to peace.
I, too, would know such tranquil ways and yet—
Why have I promised to direct an army?
A fishing pole, trees, wine below the moon
Are all I really ask for.
Am I drunk?