Hong Kong Young Writers Anthologies Poetry 2018 | Page 19

New Journeys to the West American School Hong Kong, Kan, King Lun - 9 [A poem on XuanZang’s changing perception of his disciple] On the journey to recover the scriptures, imprisoned in stone for stealing elixir, I meet the Monkey King. Rebellious arrogant and impolite; greedy eyes glowing in the night. I release him to help me with my quest on this Journey to the West. A band controlling the wicked ways of a super speedy shape shifter on a mission. His mischief requires constant supervision. As we continue our odyssey, I see a beautifully dressed lady offering me delicious food to eat. Viciously she’s beaten by Monkey’s kick and brutally slain by his magic stick. Outraged by his lack of mercy and disregard for authority, I expel him only to realise Monkey had seen she was the demon of the Bleached Skeleton. As Monkey and I continue our journey, we encounter a robbery. Despite my commandments, he makes meatballs of the leaders and is needlessly savage to the bandits. Angry, sad, and in distress, I doubt if he can ever change. I wonder if I have to make him leave, but recall all he’s done for me. Even when banished from the voyage to the West, he returns to vanquish countless demons on our quest. I reflect that Monkey is Loyal. Obedient. Powerful. A faithful protector and a formidable disciple ensuring my survival. A king of monkeys, now a deity. The Buddha of Victory!