A Verse in Memory of Comrade Aidit [I]
(December 1965)
Sparse branches stand by the chilly window,[2]
A joyful smile[3] outshines all other blooms.
Yet such a smile cannot last long;
With spring’s arrival, they wither and decay.[4]
Withered though they be, beyond endurance,[5]
Why seek trouble for oneself?
When flowers fall, there will surely come a day when new blossoms appear,
Gathering fragrance to greet next year’s delight.[6]
[I]
Aidit
(1923–1965), a leading figure of the Indonesian Communist Party and a renowned activist in the international communist movement.
[2]
“Sparse branches” refers to the plum blossom. When it blooms, it bears flowers but no leaves; leaves only begin to sprout after flowering, which is why its branches appear sparse. “Standing by the chilly window” indicates that the plum blossom blooms in late winter or early spring, when the weather is cold. People often plant it in courtyards near windows for viewing.
[3]
“Smile” here means a cheerful, radiant expression, describing how the blossoms open as if revealing a human smile.
[4]
“Instead,” “wither,” “defective” or “damaged.” “Wither and decay” refers to the fading and dying off of flowers and plants.
[5]
“Certainly,” “indeed.” “Unbearable,” indicating an extreme degree. “Withered to an unbearable extent” means the plum blossoms have already withered very severely.
[6]
“Gathering fragrance for next year” implies that the plum blossom blooms every year. Although it has now withered, it will bloom again next year. This serves as a metaphor: as long as one continues to accumulate strength, the revolutionary movement will ultimately rise once more.