My country

Is there any place?
Peace
like my country
President
with the President of South Korea (*)
after the solemn ceremony
together
walking on the banks of Hoan Kiem Lake
sit and chat
about the history of Hoan Kiem Lake.

My country
when defeating foreign invaders
bring sword back to Turtle God (**)
pen and ink
holding a hoe
indifferent to war
leave the past behind
nurture aspiration
prosperity, happiness

(*) On the morning of June 24, 2023, President Vo Van Thuong and his wife, along with President of the Republic of Korea Yoon Suk Yeol and his wife, took a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake (Hanoi).

(**) Legend has it that King Le Loi returned the sword to the Divine Turtle after defeating the Ming army.

NGUYEN MANH THANG