They told me it was metal, but I didn't believe a word.
But now I find it's iron of the strongest, finest kind.
Ah! Here is my little bellows, I think I'll melt it down.
Notes
Poem Origin: Korea, dates unknown, likely 15th or 16th century
Poem translation © 2004 by Dr. Larry Gross
Korean kisaeng were courtesans who entertained court officials and others of high rank. Though frequently of lower birth, these women were often highly intelligent, trained in dancing, painting, and literature. Profiting from the less-inhibited nature of their calling, the kisaeng felt free to express personal emotions in their writing. Their language often included fresh imagery, humorous similes and thinly veiled, risque metaphors. In this sijo, Chin-ok uses "metal" and "bellows" as sexual innuendoes to comment on the prowess of a potential lover.
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Comments
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The sexual was lost to me as well. Somehow I just can't seem to get Loraina Bobbitt out of my mind now!
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Until I read the note, te sexual metaphor in this was waisted on me completely. (I must be getting old) And there was me wondering what was made of metal.
An interesting piece, made more interesting after reading the notes, with that in mind it shows the poets determination/personality.
Andrew
Edited on Oct 21, 3:56 p.m. because ''.
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