So Recklessly Exposed by Rumi. Translated by Coleman Barks.
December and January, gone.
Tulips coming up. It's time to watch
how trees stagger in the wind
and roses never rest.
Wisteria and jasmine twist on themselves.
Violet kneels to hyacinth, who bows.
Narcissus winks, wondering what will
the lightheaded willow say
of such slow dancing by cypress.
Painters come outdoors with brushes.
I love their hands.
The birds sing suddenly and all at once.
The soul says Ya Hu, quietly.
A dove calls, Where, ku?
Soul, you will find it.
Now the roses show their breasts.
No one hides when the Friend arrives.
The rose speaks openly to the nightingale.
Notice how the green lily has several tongues
but still keeps her secret.
Now the nightingale sings this love
that is so recklessly exposed, like you.
December and January, gone.
Tulips coming up. It's time to watch
how trees stagger in the wind
and roses never rest.
Wisteria and jasmine twist on themselves.
Violet kneels to hyacinth, who bows.
Narcissus winks, wondering what will
the lightheaded willow say
of such slow dancing by cypress.
Painters come outdoors with brushes.
I love their hands.
The birds sing suddenly and all at once.
The soul says Ya Hu, quietly.
A dove calls, Where, ku?
Soul, you will find it.
Now the roses show their breasts.
No one hides when the Friend arrives.
The rose speaks openly to the nightingale.
Notice how the green lily has several tongues
but still keeps her secret.
Now the nightingale sings this love
that is so recklessly exposed, like you.