Poetry Friday

This week's Friday poem is from Su Dongpo, by Demi, a marvelous picture book I just reviewed. Su Dongpo (1036-1101) wrote the following poem when he was secretary to the emperor on the nature of power and happiness:

There is not much difference in the actual
happiness
of living a luxurious life and a simple one.
One is wanted for position
When one doesn't want it, and wants it
when the position doesn't want him.
In either case, happiness and sadness
are moments that pass like a shadow,
a sound, a breeze and a dream.
Both are earthly illusions.
How can one find happiness
Countering one illusion with another?
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For a full roundup of this week's Poetry Friday, head on over to A Chair, A Fireplace and a Tea Cozy. Thanks, Liz!