Poem: Secluded Residence (Li Xiang-Ting)

Seclusion is the first step to solitude. Solitude is a place where there is none and the presence of self manifests to its fullest. Solitude is the place where the within meets the without. Seclusion is a primary condition to achieve solitude.

Whether we are travelers or bookworms, writers or poets, philosophers or monks, or simply introverts, seclusion is a desirable ambiance for seeking solace. We would love to seek solace in solitude in a secluded residence. I prefer a lakeside residence with mountains in the distance, but also full access to the sky.

Suppose instrumental music adds to a monologue of thoughts, like Guqin strains that start and slowly wither in a ripple of notes, like a stone falling into the lake creating ripples that finally meld with the permanent stillness. In that case, thought will flow and die in the stillness of the mind.

Here is the Guqin strain of ‘Secluded Residence’. A pure strum and string of the instrument lead to such a beautiful strain that slowly interlaces with silence in between. Enjoy this wonderful composition while reading the poem of the same title.

Poem: Secluded Residence

A library of walls
Walls of bookshelves
Filled with myriad books
A world between the covers
— This secluded residence
Awaits a bookworm.

The murmur of the woods
Calls and echoes of birds
Wilderness holds its place
For words to become verses
— This secluded residence
Awaits a poet.

Just a sheaf of papers
A pen, pencil, or a quill
A writing desk near the window
Gazing at nothing
— This secluded residence
Awaits a writer.

Silent, calm, and still
Moments transcending time
Tumult transforms to tranquillity
To explore a world within
— This secluded residence
Awaits a monk.

A mind that takes it all in
Different sights and sounds
Just to rest the weary body
Need of a cozy, warm place
— This secluded residence
Awaits a traveller.

The open azure sky
Clear, white clouds or grey
Vast, infinite, window to space
Calm, silent, and dark
— This secluded residence
Awaits a philosopher.

Overwhelmed by humans
Their escape to solitude
Just to be, not judged for that
A natural place for this soul
— This secluded residence
Awaits an introvert.

With all that it can be
Balconies, windows, and gardens
Libraries, beds, and by the lake
It is still an ensemble of bricks
— This secluded residence
Awaits its humans.

~Ashok Subramanian © 2024