[1] Used here in the vulgar sense, meaning “women’s quarters. ◀◀
[2] Spiritual metaphor: prayer, meditation, enlightenment. ◀◀
[3] “—blue flowers lying aslant the moon”
This refers to a favorite Chinese saying, “Pawlonia flowers aslant the moon remind one of an absent friend.” ◀◀
[4] The “Western Garden” is one of many poetic similes frequently applied to the “Land of Immortals” where perfection is realised. ◀◀
[5] A poetry scroll, hung on the wall. ◀◀
[6] Chin Wha is obviously referring to the idea that one who has glimpsed immortality can never again be wholly satisfied with the material world. It seems here as if the poet is playing with the legendary conception of the Peach Garden. ◀◀
[7] The “Chung-ok-kyul,” or Book of Blue Jade, contained the secret of immortality. ◀◀
[8] Moonlight Gem was an elixir of life. ◀◀
[9] Another translation of this poem suggests an alternative line here: “I dwell with ghosts. Would that one ghost were you!”
I select the above as seeming more appropriate. It is unlikely that a Korean would express the wish to see a ghost, even of his son. As the verse stands it indicates the extreme bewilderment of bereaved old age. ◀◀
[10] The priest has passed beyond all material desire. “Formless clouds” indicate that which is wholly spiritual. ◀◀