Puddle

by Chi Le Chuan
     trs. by Wang Ping

It just rained, and puddle
Gathered like a gorge, a few kids
Marched into the water, kicking
Stomping on their childhood without suspicion . . .

One child picked up a water bottle, and
put it in the snakeskin bag of the vagabond
Across the street.  He was
Followed by the other kids . . .

The puddle became quiet for a few minutes
Shining, as if
This small body of water has gathered
All the light of this world