Yi Chung-kwi. (1564—?)
See Introduction (page 26). Dr. James S. Gale gives the following notes on this poet: “Not only was he a man of great literary attainments but he was also a master of the state.” “His collected works number twenty-two volumes done from wooden plates and marked with his pen-name of ‘Wulsa’ (Moonlit Sands).’’
Peaceful this inn upon the river’s brink
Where pale green willows trail above the reeds.
Here clouds of blossom break the soft blue haze
Of morning skies.
And here the evening falls,
A silken banner from the mountain walls.
Long days of travel line my weary face.
Yet have I known no hour of calmer rest
Than this.
My thoughts are like the willow boughs,
Waved to and fro upon the rippling stream.
My rhymes are ripples, breaking from a dream.