Friday, February 12, 2010

An Ancient Capital



Xi'an is bathed
in a glaring yellow haze,
the ancient capital
surrounded by
farms and poverty
the south gate welcomes
barbarians from
the west.
the hyatt regency
an insert for foreigners.
a quiet stroll
down the long boulevard
this restaurant–no english
no menu in sight
a hot pot with
water and blood
fish heads float
in the boiling broth
with a tripe and
cucumber feast.
no meaningful words
were ever exchanged
the dinner
an interesting extravaganza
not knowing what to do
when visiting the east
you are only a guest
understanding this
the correct response
appears in this moment.

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