POETRY

Morning Glow
— POEM by Anna Keiko
(Translated from Chinese)

Bursting out from the darkness in a brand – new state,

Stirring the species’ desires with the warmth of its chest.

The hazy mountain scenery emerges from the water surface,

Flowing like a river.

I stand by the window, listening to the breathing of the whole city.

Facing the bold and wanton call of the sky.

Reluctant but having to leave.

Ahead, my steps can’t stop.

A bus, a scenic spot, an inquiry. This is my journey.

….

(Self-translation from CHINESE)

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Anna Keiko

Anna Keiko, a distinguished poetess and essayist from Shanghai, China, has made a profound impact on contemporary literature. A graduate of Shanghai East China University with a Bachelor’s degree in Law, she has achieved global recognition for her poetry, with a translation into more than 30 languages and published in over 500 journals, magazines, and media outlets across the world.

Keiko is the founder and chief editor of the ACC Shanghai Huifeng Literature Association and serves as a Chinese representative and director of the International Cultural Foundation Ithaca. Her affiliations extend to Immagine & Poesia in Italy and the Canadian-Cuban Literary Union, reflecting her commitment to fostering cross-cultural literary exchanges.

Anna Keiko’s poetic oeuvre spans six collections, including “Lonely in the Blood and Absurd Language”, showcasing her exploration of human emotions, environmental concerns, and existential themes. Her innovative style and evocative imagery have earned her numerous accolades, such as the 30th International Poetry Award in Italy and the World Peace Ambassador Certificate in 2024. Notably, she was the first Chinese recipient of the Cross-Cultural Exchange Medal for Significant Contribution to World Poetry, awarded in the United States in 2023.

Her works, including “Octopus Bones” and other acclaimed poems, have resonated with readers worldwide, garnering invitations to prominent international poetry festivals and conferences.

Anna Keiko’s dedication to the arts extends beyond poetry, encompassing prose, essays, lyrics, and drama, underscoring her versatility as a writer. Nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2020, Anna Keiko continues to break barriers, bringing Chinese literature to the global stage.

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