Hong Kong Young Writers Anthologies Poetry 2019 | Page 19

Exploring the World: The Ming Treasure Voyages in Haiku
Diocesan Girls' Junior School, Kee, Cheuk Yin Chloe - 10
The First Voyage, the 3rd to 5th year of Yongle
In the sweet scent of
Spring, Zheng He launched a great sea
adventure: fruitful.
The Second Voyage, 6th to 7th year of Yongle
Calicut—we waltzed
in its court, celebrating
without Zheng. A miss.
The Third Voyage, 7th to 9th year of Yongle
Supreme! A roaring
Sea King, Zheng captured the King
of Ceylon. Forlorn.
The Fourth Voyage, 11th to 13th year of Yongle
To the Persian Gulf
we embarked—stretching so far,
Like a luscious dream.
The Fifth Voyage, 15th to 17th year of Yongle
We reached Africa
under the vibrant rays of
Summer. Exotic.
The Sixth Voyage, 19th to 20th year of Yongle
Returning home, blest,
the envoys were most impressed.
Silk—we gave Brava.
The Final Voyage, 5th to 8th year of Xuande
Requiem for Zheng:
The Red Sea held the warrior.
Life completed; he rested.