Dr. Phuong Le is an ESL teacher educator for over 40 years in various contexts in Vietnam and she is currently working as an IELTS trainer and a lecturer in American Literature. As an ESL researcher, she has produced numerous articles and presentations internationally over the years. Her current research interests focus on developing the learners’ autonomy and creativity. She has been involved in Creative Writing since 2010 and has integrated this skill into her ESL teaching ever since.  Her email is leaphuong2003@gmail.com

 

A Funeral during COVID Time (Dec 4, 2021)

One old, one young.

One man, one girl.

With mourning bands

           

Kneeling in the street

Facing a simple coffin

Of a wife and Mom.

 

Shrieking pains

Carved into their hearts.

All quiet in the deep night.

 

Downtown in COVID Time (Dec 4, 2021)

Rows of hotels and bars

Once shone with sparkling lights,

luxurious guests and cars.

Now lying idly in boredom

Gloomily growling non-stop.

 

Restaurants and gyms

Once crowded and noisy

Customers in and out.

Now looking at each other

Wondering where they all are.

 

A Journey of Joy (Jan 15)

You have flown away, as gently as a breeze.

Wandering over the hills, visiting green forests.

You have flown away, like a butterfly

Caressing pretty flowers, enjoying their aroma.

You have flown away, like a seagull.

Playing with the waves, welcoming a new day.

 

Fly away to explore the wide world

and enjoy your freedom,

Fly away to share boundless love

and nurture your dream.

Fly away and keep your bright smiles

for you and the ones you love.

 

For You, a Memorable Teacher (Jan 15)

You have written a song

More beautiful than many others.

Produced with love, care and passion.

Filled with heavy sweats and deep thoughts.

 

The song you have offered this life

Sung by numerous human beings

Considerate, respectful, and empathetic.

Talented but humble, thrifty but sharing.

 

They all join in one voice to continue

The musical notes that you have embroidered

To make this life worth living and the song

Will remain with time, for now and ever.