(Poem 250 for 2024 – I am writing a poem a day)

In times long ago in the
Joseon era, all the maidens
who belonged to the King
wore red cuffs on their sleeves.

To be raised in the palace or
brought in by virtue of family
connections, proof of talent,
or as a favor, meant honor.

It was a privilege to empty the
bedpans of royalty, endure the
abuse of the upper class, serve
the needs of those of higher rank.

And if chosen as a concubine,
she should feel grateful that
her body, her mind, her virtue,
and her life will never be her own.

@Home Studio – 250^th poem of the year (After watching the Korean drama The Red Sleeve.)

Jung Ji-in, The Red Sleeve. Lee Jun-ho, Lee Se-young, Kang Hoon, WeMad, Npio Entertainment, 12 Nov. 2021—1 Jan. 2022.