The White Curtain

A white drape next to the window
gently drawn aside,
a girl’s eyes awaken from the night
to toss seeds for the birds,
nurture the plants,
and extend kindness.

A fountain of love,
the intact dew everywhere,
the little red fish
peacefully
perform the spring dance,
and a cherry basket on the counter
with a gleaming drop of dew
smiles at the zephyr.

Translation from Persian by Sheema Kalbasi