KING OF AYUTTHAYA

The skies cleared somewhat

As the road left Bangkok

Behind us

On a tiger's new world stage;

And we travelled routes

Leading west-north-west

To see remnants

Of a more heroic age

When Naresuan

Armed elephants for war,

To defeat his foreign foes in battle -

Single combat between kings -

That ensured

Thailand would be no alien's chattel.

I know Don Chedi's mound will stay with me -

Victory’s relic rising in my dreams.

My night-time eyes will take me back

And I’ll see Ayutthaya’s moats -

Now placid streams -

Graceful grand wats

Worn out only by time,

And the face

Of smiling Buddha reclined.