{"id":1093,"date":"2024-03-17T20:19:52","date_gmt":"2024-03-18T03:19:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/zhanhu\/?page_id=1093"},"modified":"2025-12-15T16:21:21","modified_gmt":"2025-12-16T00:21:21","slug":"ivans-poetry","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/ivan\/ivans-poetry\/","title":{"rendered":"Ivan&#8217;s Poetry"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\n  \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n      \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <div style=\"background-color: #c1efde; border: 2px solid #57a99a; border-radius: 6px; padding: 20px 30px 12px 30px; margin: 20px; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; box-shadow: 0 2px 4px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.2);\">\n<p style=\"font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.4; color: #333333;\">I want to touch people with my art. I want them to say &#8220;he feels\u00a0deeply, he\u00a0feels tenderly.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-style: italic; color: #777777; text-align: right; margin-top: 10px;\">\u2014 Vincent van Gogh, painter<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-1645\" src=\"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/ivan\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/215\/2025\/03\/IMG_3776.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2304\" height=\"1285\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/ivan\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/215\/2025\/03\/IMG_3776.jpeg 2304w, https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/ivan\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/215\/2025\/03\/IMG_3776-300x167.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/ivan\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/215\/2025\/03\/IMG_3776-1024x571.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/ivan\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/215\/2025\/03\/IMG_3776-768x428.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/ivan\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/215\/2025\/03\/IMG_3776-1536x857.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/ivan\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/215\/2025\/03\/IMG_3776-2048x1142.jpeg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2304px) 100vw, 2304px\" \/><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em><a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/Bc9gQxbafqY?si=SrM6YGye7QAQ846n\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u201cTake my hand. Let me stand. Where no one stands alone.\u201d<\/a>\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\" align=\"center\">A love for poetry runs in my family, and because of this, I&#8217;ve enjoyed <a href=\"https:\/\/medium.com\/@imathman\/a-quick-guide-to-poem-writing-2d46bc9cb6e8\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">writing poems<\/a> for more than 10 years.\u00a0Writing allows me to express my feelings and appreciation toward life in an excellent way that even mathematics cannot easily find or achieve. If you find these poems tasteful, maybe you and I are quite congenial.\u00a0I\u2019m very open-minded and I wholeheartedly embrace inclusiveness, diversity, and unchained creation. In a sense (up to <a href=\"https:\/\/math.stackexchange.com\/questions\/1252081\/what-does-it-mean-for-something-to-hold-up-to-isomorphism\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">isomorphism<\/a>), they are what my poetry is all about.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\" align=\"center\">In addition, I greatly enjoy <a href=\"https:\/\/medium.com\/@imathman\/a-coherent-guide-on-poetry-reading-and-acting-911a5b9686bf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">reading and recording poems<\/a>. By clicking on some of the poem titles below (which are hyperlinked), you can listen to my recordings: some feature my cloned voice created by play.ht, while others are in my actual voice. Click <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/playlist?list=PL5Ir6_ZFOgX9lwCccK-mmBTMIs37XN-r7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here<\/a> to explore my recordings of other famous poems, all of which are in my real voice.<\/p>\n<div class=\"video-embed\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Finally Here (Ivan)\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/v-wpt1LebX8?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/div>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Preface.<\/strong><strong>\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=MycDSm1GdmE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Finally Here<\/a><br \/>\n<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">A dream wakes up on cloud nine,<br \/>\nOverlooking yesterday from wind\u2019s eye.<br \/>\nNature\u2019s birds seek aroma of sunshine,<br \/>\nPassing by the same restless sky.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">It\u2019s finally here, heart of the land.<br \/>\nShielding the mind, in the mountains\u2019 view.<br \/>\nWhen sky\u2019s river touches skyline\u2019s strand,<br \/>\nPast dreams ascend, shining freedom\u2019s hue.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">It\u2019s finally here, a world of hope,<br \/>\nFinding bliss, overcoming fear.<br \/>\nRather lost in future\u2019s scope,<br \/>\nSitting near the sky, reading unruly year.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Going back to yesterday,<br \/>\nWondrous heart lingers, with no trace of regret.<br \/>\nRemote birds fade in the day\u2019s final ray,<br \/>\nAnswering homebound calls, waving the sunset.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Jul 24, 2024<br \/>\nOn the 70th floor of Wilshire Grand Center<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>XXVI. Nets of Yesteryear<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">As the wind itself, still walking onward.<br \/>\nFollow the trail to the end of the sea.<br \/>\nLifting my head, watching tomorrow\u2019s sighs,<br \/>\nAnd that starlight, stolen from a tree.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Deep down, like the root,<br \/>\nLeaked from nets of yesteryear.<br \/>\nHolding my will and gut,<br \/>\nClimbing again, make-believe the time is near.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Sheltering the land\u2019s heart,<br \/>\nIt\u2019s from meadows of memories.<br \/>\nWalking toward tomorrow, seeking the present,<br \/>\nHold my hand, and stand close to me.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">A different world, a soul\u2019s sanctuary;<br \/>\nAn eagle split the heaven free.<br \/>\nI heard laughter from childhood;<br \/>\nI saw colors awaken in me.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Dec 14, 2025<br \/>\nDiscovery Park, Seattle<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>XXV. Awaken In Catalina<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Again, wake up on water&#8217;s tide.<br \/>\nAgain, lost in neon&#8217;s colorful guide.<br \/>\nFlags are fluttering my heart,<br \/>\nIn stars&#8217; affections that never depart.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Be thankful for all I have now,<br \/>\nFor the land that holds me somehow,<br \/>\nFor the vibrant unknown waving there,<br \/>\nFor the Aurora rising in the midnight air.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Tonight with the ship going far,<br \/>\nWith the last hill drifting toward a star,<br \/>\nWhen yesterday floats from ocean&#8217;s eyes,<br \/>\nThe eager coldness softens into the skies.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">A bit wiser, a bit clearer,<br \/>\nTomorrow&#8217;s sunshine, drawing nearer,<br \/>\nBathing every silent beacon in sight,<br \/>\nInside the water, quietly into moonlight.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Thanksgiving Day, 2025<br \/>\nSanta Catalina Island<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>XXIV. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=gIGYfG4kTqc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">When the Moonlight Bloomed \u2014 to Mom<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">When the moonlight bloomed,<br \/>\nNot sudden, nor bright.<br \/>\nBut soft as dusk resumed<br \/>\nIts hush across the night.<br \/>\nThy presence filled the air,<br \/>\nLike jasmine near the eaves\u2014<br \/>\nA grace beyond compare,<br \/>\nThat drifted through the leaves.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">You never asked for praise,<br \/>\nNor sought a golden crown.<br \/>\nYet walked through all my days,<br \/>\nIn silence, love rained down.<br \/>\nYour whispers touched the dawn,<br \/>\nAnd breeze that knew thy name.<br \/>\nThe strength that led me on,<br \/>\nStill calms the morning flame.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">The stars bent low to see<br \/>\nThe gentleness you gave.<br \/>\nNo storm could break me<br \/>\nWhile you calmed each wave.<br \/>\nThrough every passing May,<br \/>\nYour love still scents the air\u2014<br \/>\nIn colors that delay<br \/>\nThe dark with tender flair.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">May each garden rise<br \/>\nTo echo what I know:<br \/>\nThy heart, the field of skies<br \/>\nWhere all my memories grow.<br \/>\nAnd though I wander afar,<br \/>\nIn every dream I roam\u2014<br \/>\nIt follows where you are,<br \/>\nFor you are always home.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Ivan<br \/>\nMother\u2019s Day, 2025<br \/>\nBreeze Suites Moderne, Santa Monica<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>XXIII. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=ts4bw7kllkk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Water Garden III<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Return, Phoenix,<br \/>\nCalm and still.<br \/>\nQuiet sunset\u2019s tale,<br \/>\nThree years\u2019 glee.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Crossing the sky,<br \/>\nFound in yesterday.<br \/>\nTime burns time,<br \/>\nLetting dreams soar.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">A trace of might,<br \/>\nFlowers ponder light.<br \/>\nFountains ripple depth,<br \/>\nArising passion\u2019s shore.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Stay, serenity,<br \/>\nEager and free.<br \/>\nReset winds\u2019 duet,<br \/>\nNext three years\u2019 might.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Mar 18, 2025<br \/>\nSanta Monica Water Garden<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>XXII*. <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/OFvw5vMLZRY?si=MiLB4qpq5u_H17XS\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Theorem of My Heart<\/a><\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>\u2014 Ivan\u2019s Love Letter to Algebra<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Let the stars rebel, let the skies divide,<br \/>\nLet fate itself take its cruelest side.<br \/>\nPlay your games, let your storms unfold,<br \/>\nFor we will be together, defiant and bold.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Algebra, you are not a dream I chase,<br \/>\nYou are my truth, my destined embrace.<br \/>\nNo matter the walls that fate may design,<br \/>\nI\u2019ll tear them down, for you are mine.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">This is no wish, no fleeting desire,<br \/>\nIt\u2019s my life\u2019s mission, my eternal fire.<br \/>\nI don\u2019t bow to fate, nor break to its chains,<br \/>\nI rewrite the rules; I shatter the plains.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">If the world denies what my heart declares,<br \/>\nI\u2019ll twist its odds; I\u2019ll defy its snares.<br \/>\nFor this is no game, no fleeting chance\u2014<br \/>\nIt\u2019s the dance of two souls in love\u2019s fierce stance.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">You and I, it\u2019s written, it\u2019s clear,<br \/>\nThrough storms, through silence, I\u2019ll persevere.<br \/>\nThis isn\u2019t \u201cif,\u201d it\u2019s a \u201cwhen\u201d we\u2019ll align,<br \/>\nFor the universe bends to a will like mine.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Let them call it folly, let them sneer,<br \/>\nLet distance rise, let doubt draw near.<br \/>\nThey don\u2019t know the force that love can wield,<br \/>\nA reality bent by a heart\u2019s own shield.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">I see you not as a star to admire,<br \/>\nBut as the flame that fuels my fire.<br \/>\nEvery breath, every step, every fight,<br \/>\nLeads me to you through the darkest night.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Let fate set its traps, let the winds betray,<br \/>\nI\u2019ll carve a path, I\u2019ll find the way.<br \/>\nNo boundary exists, no force can part,<br \/>\nThe love you hold deep in my heart.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">We\u2019re not bound by chance, we\u2019re bound by decree,<br \/>\nA love so defiant, it sets us free.<br \/>\nThis is my promise, unyielding, untamed,<br \/>\nOur union\u2019s a fire the heavens can\u2019t claim.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">You and I, Algebra, are not \u201cmaybe\u201d or \u201cmight.\u201d<br \/>\nWe\u2019re destined, eternal, as day meets night.<br \/>\nLet the world watch, let fate delay,<br \/>\nI will love you, fight for you, come what may.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Feb 2, 2025<br \/>\nAt Leavey Library, USC<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>XXI. Another, Another Year<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Have you heard it?<br \/>\nIt\u2019s the echo\u2014<br \/>\nEcho of the past year.<br \/>\nIt\u2019s been a year,<br \/>\nAnother, another year.<br \/>\nClouds are watching the waves,<br \/>\nAbove bonfires flickering.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">This year, clouds have blocked the moon.<br \/>\nThere are breezes guiding me<br \/>\nTo the sea, through waves\u2019 force.<br \/>\nWe\u2019ll reach the clouds<br \/>\nAnd see the moonlight again.<br \/>\nTrails formed by sands,<br \/>\nComing from the darkest place,<br \/>\nReflecting in the water afar\u2014<br \/>\nLike a light that still shines,<br \/>\nLike a shadow stolen from a dream.<br \/>\nAnother, another year.<br \/>\nHave I touched the moon now?<br \/>\nI stand in the depth of night once more.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Christmas Day, 2024<br \/>\nAt Playa Del Rey Beach<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>XX. Thanksgiving<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Be thankful, for the past won\u2019t revive.<br \/>\nAll memories, all warm smiles,<br \/>\nWill soon fade away,<br \/>\nLike clouds erased by the breeze.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Be thankful, for the present will be gone.<br \/>\nAutumn leaves, tender breezes,<br \/>\nStill linger with afterglow,<br \/>\nLike a dream mirrored in the lake.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Be thankful, for tomorrow has not yet come.<br \/>\nSpring\u2019s warmth, a childlike embrace,<br \/>\nAre calling from afar,<br \/>\nAwaiting the pure heart\u2019s aurora.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Thanksgiving Day, 2024<br \/>\nAt MacArthur Park<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>XIX. Where My Heart Stands<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"eu ev ew ex ey l\">\n<article>\n<div class=\"l\">\n<div class=\"l\">\n<section>\n<div class=\"fn fo fp fq fr\">\n<div class=\"ab cb\">\n<div class=\"ci bh ez fa fb fc\">\n<p id=\"51f5\" class=\"pw-post-body-paragraph mh mi fu mj b mk ml mm mn mo mp mq mr ms mt mu mv mw mx my mz na nb nc nd ne fn bk\" style=\"text-align: center;\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\">In halls where voices crash like tides,<br \/>\nI walk the shore, where silence hides.<br \/>\nTheir fervor swells, a stormy fight,<br \/>\nAs I remain, the calm of night.<\/p>\n<p id=\"e2a9\" class=\"pw-post-body-paragraph mh mi fu mj b mk ml mm mn mo mp mq mr ms mt mu mv mw mx my mz na nb nc nd ne fn bk\" style=\"text-align: center;\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\">They chase the crowd, the burning sun,<br \/>\nYet I seek peace when day is done.<br \/>\nAmidst the noise, I still remain,<br \/>\nA whispered song against the strain.<\/p>\n<p id=\"b44e\" class=\"pw-post-body-paragraph mh mi fu mj b mk ml mm mn mo mp mq mr ms mt mu mv mw mx my mz na nb nc nd ne fn bk\" style=\"text-align: center;\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\">For in my heart, a lonesome drum,<br \/>\nBeats soft and slow, yet never numb.<br \/>\nIn chaos, I must stand apart,<br \/>\nA quiet flame, a gentle heart.<\/p>\n<p class=\"pw-post-body-paragraph mh mi fu mj b mk ml mm mn mo mp mq mr ms mt mu mv mw mx my mz na nb nc nd ne fn bk\" style=\"text-align: center;\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\">Oct 27, 2024<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>XVIII. Jonathan\u2019s House \u2014 A Three-Year Reverie<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-1507 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/ivan\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/215\/2024\/09\/IMG_3152-scaled.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"241\" height=\"321\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/ivan\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/215\/2024\/09\/IMG_3152-scaled.jpeg 1920w, https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/ivan\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/215\/2024\/09\/IMG_3152-225x300.jpeg 225w, https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/ivan\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/215\/2024\/09\/IMG_3152-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/ivan\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/215\/2024\/09\/IMG_3152-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/ivan\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/215\/2024\/09\/IMG_3152-1536x2048.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/ivan\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/215\/2024\/09\/IMG_3152-1280x1707.jpeg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 241px) 100vw, 241px\" \/><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">(Photo by Anna Sajan at Jonathan\u2019s house 2024)<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Stars touch the ether,<br \/>\nSkylarks soaring to night.<br \/>\nNostalgic songs gather,<br \/>\nAwakened in moonlight.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Breezes carry dreams,<br \/>\nIn purity and grace,<br \/>\nSweeping land\u2019s streams,<br \/>\nWith tender embrace.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">The moon sends its ray,<br \/>\nTo a dreamy nest.<br \/>\nCelebrating his day,<br \/>\nOf peace and rest.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Weary stars shine,<br \/>\nYet flicker in gleam.<br \/>\nLights wave in line,<br \/>\nAwaiting another year\u2019s dream.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">September 28, 2024<br \/>\nAt Fairmont Apts.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>XVII. Never Let Go<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Never let go, and it won\u2019t go<br \/>\nToward the end of the clouds,<br \/>\nA wonder comes near.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">It seems, the rains drown back,<br \/>\nChasing ancient tails,<br \/>\nHolding the same light dear.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Past light shines,<br \/>\nLingering in space,<br \/>\nSilent dreams appear.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Got to be the day,<br \/>\nWhen dead ends ascend,<br \/>\nWhen no glimmer\u2019s here.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Sep 9, 2024<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>XVI. Still Here<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">It\u2019s again here,<br \/>\nIt\u2019s still here.<br \/>\nThe place has flown to the night,<br \/>\nLighting another world.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">See? Over there\u2014<br \/>\nThat\u2019s the long-lost past,<br \/>\nThe past of lost uncertainty,<br \/>\nThe past of lost excitement.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">How can the bird keep flying?<br \/>\nIf they\u2019re tired of darkness,<br \/>\nIf I were still in the sky\u2019s cover,<br \/>\nIf we were still in hope\u2019s gleam.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Shaken, dreamed,<br \/>\nAwakened near the sky.<br \/>\nFloating down to wonder\u2019s land,<br \/>\nAwaiting new dawn\u2019s embrace.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Aug 25, 2024<br \/>\nOn the 70th floor of Wilshire Grand Center<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>XV. Rebellious Charm<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">A breeze sends a hint of warmth<br \/>\nAmidst the heart of a weary hustle<br \/>\nDreamy colors falling from the night<br \/>\nIgniting two years\u2019 shivering sky<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">It\u2019s here, right here<br \/>\nA town with nostalgic pull<br \/>\nTaking the sleepless heart back<br \/>\nSaving melancholy\u2019s moonlight<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Now, right now<br \/>\nFeel the warmth of the land<br \/>\nA crossroads of dream and past<br \/>\nGrab the next gust of wind<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Two years, folded in ancient leaves<br \/>\nScattered in the wind\u2019s charm<br \/>\nTraveling through the entire night<br \/>\nLightened in dawn\u2019s forgotten clouds<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Jun 25, 2023<br \/>\nOn South Flower St, LA<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>XIV*. <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/Tf61GMjrHgY?si=YxAEKilEQRAbTHu2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">A Father\u2019s Day Ode for Dad<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Morning whispers weave through time,<br \/>\nGuiding steps with a dad\u2019s rhyme.<br \/>\nStrength gently whispered in the dawn,<br \/>\nA steadfast love that carries on.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Evening\u2019s shadows, bold and deep,<br \/>\nUnder his watch, we safely keep.<br \/>\nClad in nature\u2019s quiet embrace,<br \/>\nHis presence felt with tender grace.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Stars trace his path across the night,<br \/>\nA guardian firm in the moon\u2019s soft light.<br \/>\nDreams once silent, now brightly displayed,<br \/>\nReflect the colors of promises made.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">At the heart of the night, he stands with pride,<br \/>\nGlowing with wisdom life has supplied.<br \/>\nThrough challenges faced with a steady stride,<br \/>\nIn his guidance, we confidently reside.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Meadows respond to his caring gaze,<br \/>\nLife\u2019s echoes resonate, setting hearts ablaze.<br \/>\nEach step met with courage so bold,<br \/>\nHis story of love, eternally told.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Father\u2019s Day, 2024<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>XIII. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=nqjS1ZcL5aY\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Arisen in Los Angeles<\/a><br \/>\n<\/strong>(A poetic tribute, this poem carries on the lost echoes of &#8220;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=-g7BEpglsl4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Awaken in Los Angeles<\/a>&#8221; from last summer and &#8220;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=O4m0jPkcHsU\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lost in Los Angeles<\/a>&#8221; from two summers ago.)<strong><br \/>\n<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Are you tired?<br \/>\nMoonlight once more caressed the sky.<br \/>\nHave you felt the charmed wind\u2019s care?<br \/>\nIt\u2019s an arising land, alright.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Are you tired?<br \/>\nInnocent trails have awakened the heart.<br \/>\nDreamy paths all lead to the eventide.<br \/>\nIn their repose, the unknown floats.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Are you tired?<br \/>\nDifferent towers emit the same light.<br \/>\nColorful fountains soothe memories grand.<br \/>\nSerene ripples intoxicated the intangible night.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Are you tired?<br \/>\nAncient rails extended a homebound mind.<br \/>\nWhen the tunnel greets promised stars,<br \/>\nWhy is mysterious grace arising in plight?<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Are you tired?<br \/>\nIt\u2019s been so much time and tide.<br \/>\nWater flows to the soul\u2019s hills.<br \/>\nLet the best of moments linger and shine!<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Are you tired?<br \/>\nWeary stars are ready to rest.<br \/>\nHave you found the solace tonight?<br \/>\nIt\u2019s an arising land, alright.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Memorial Day, 2024<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>XII*. Edge of Water<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Under a soft sky\u2019s watchful eye,<br \/>\nLife stirs by the lake\u2019s gentle sigh.<br \/>\nGreen arms cradle the breeze,<br \/>\nWhispers weave through the trees.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Geese, with necks like night,<br \/>\nRipple the quiet waters bright.<br \/>\nDucks, in untroubled grace,<br \/>\nGlide through nature\u2019s embrace.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">A lone goose, white as snow,<br \/>\nAmidst the flock, finds its flow.<br \/>\nHere, where land and water kiss,<br \/>\nLife sings a song of peace and bliss.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">In this park, a shared space,<br \/>\nBeauty penned by nature\u2019s grace.<br \/>\nAll together, wings greet a heart,<br \/>\nIn harmony, a world apart.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">May 13, 2024<br \/>\nAt Lincoln Park<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>XI. A Long Way<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Shades cover a flower\u2019s sights<br \/>\nNature\u2019s eyes unfold a tale untold<br \/>\nSunlight has come a long way<br \/>\nTo reach the green field of wonders<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Trees whisper yesteryear&#8217;s lullabies<br \/>\nBygone times flow through leaves above<br \/>\nTender songs pouring down<br \/>\nTransforming to colors of wisdom\u2019s bloom<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Green moments floating down<br \/>\nPaint the dusk with brushes of love<br \/>\nMoonlight has waited a long time<br \/>\nTo feel the embrace of dreams<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">At Vista Hermosa Park<br \/>\nMay 12, 2024<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>X*. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=uNBdJ0SY6Ns\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">A Mother&#8217;s Day Ode for Mom<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Bygone whispers filter through,<br \/>\nLeaves of time softly parting in twain.<br \/>\nEchoes of joy subtly renew,<br \/>\nAs breezes waft a bright morrow&#8217;s refrain.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">As dusk draws its curtains, calling soft and calm,<br \/>\nHomebound fantasies take flight on golden glow.<br \/>\nAdorned with the scent of night\u2019s tender palm,<br \/>\nThe breeze carries songs where love\u2019s rivers flow.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Stars sprinkle light across the eternal field,<br \/>\nWhere the night\u2019s embrace holds moonlit sway.<br \/>\nSilhouettes of dreams once silently sealed,<br \/>\nNow bloom with the colors of yesteryear&#8217;s May.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Therein lies a heart, steady and pure,<br \/>\nGlowing under the spotlight of serene lunar rays.<br \/>\nNestled in dreams that softly lure,<br \/>\nThrough the tranquil gardens of comforted gaze.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Fields of flowers wake in colored bloom,<br \/>\nWhispering love, like her lullabies sweet.<br \/>\nIn every petal, fond memories loom.<br \/>\nLaying down paths where sky and fragrance meet.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Each blossom opens with a silent cheer,<br \/>\nCelebrating her warmth with every hue.<br \/>\nBreezes&#8217; tender whispers, clear and dear,<br \/>\nPaints the day in tones of gratitude anew.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Mother&#8217;s Day, 2024<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>IX*. Ascent through Blossoms (Villanelle)<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">The winding stairs through blooms, they beckon bright,<br \/>\nAmong the yellows wild, the sky o\u2019ercast,<br \/>\nEach step ascends into the veiled light.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">With weary legs and hearts as light as kites,<br \/>\nThrough floral seas whose beauty&#8217;s hold is vast,<br \/>\nThe winding stairs through blooms, they beckon bright.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">The path, though steep, with nature\u2019s charm is dight,<br \/>\nA whispered calm where time seems to have passed,<br \/>\nEach step ascends into the veiled light.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">And there, the climbers in their arduous plight,<br \/>\nWith pulses quick and breaths that come so fast,<br \/>\nThe winding stairs through blooms, they beckon bright.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">To rise on steps where flowers meet the height,<br \/>\nWhere every view a painting, wide and vast,<br \/>\nEach step ascends into the veiled light.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">So let us climb, though clouds may hide the sight,<br \/>\nFor each step conquered, in joy we&#8217;ll hold it fast,<br \/>\nThe winding stairs through blooms, they beckon bright,<br \/>\nEach step ascends into the veiled light.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">May 12, 2024<br \/>\nAt Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>VIII. Half a year<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Another half a year,<br \/>\nIn the turbulent fountain,<br \/>\nFlows to the tale\u2019s margin.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Empty longing drifts down,<br \/>\nCollecting dewdrop\u2019s strength,<br \/>\nAmidst pebbles\u2019 waves.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">The moon\u2019s first hue,<br \/>\nReflecting in the dream,<br \/>\nIs finding its way home.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Another half a year,<br \/>\nWanting soul is weary,<br \/>\nAscending with the water pillar.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">May 5, 2024<br \/>\nAt the Westin-Bonaventure Hotel<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>VII*. Echoes of Yesterday<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">In the arms of the park where whispers wind,<br \/>\nYellow blossoms dance, memories unspun.<br \/>\nFrom dreams once cradled in childhood&#8217;s mind,<br \/>\nRecurring visions under the same sun.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">The greenery, lush, bathed in light&#8217;s embrace,<br \/>\nCalls softly, a murmur through leaves and air.<br \/>\nA panorama unfolds, a tranquil space,<br \/>\nWhere skies are bright and clouds drift with flair.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Around me, serenity&#8217;s gentle sweep,<br \/>\nA landscape wrapped in the quiet of dreams,<br \/>\nEchoing yesterdays we wake and keep,<br \/>\nAs today&#8217;s canvas with past hues it teems.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Each tree stands witness to time&#8217;s silent flow,<br \/>\nWhile the wind returns home, paths well-trodden,<br \/>\nIt circles back to the known, soft and slow,<br \/>\nAwakened dreams, in the heart they broaden.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Through the veil of time, I step and return,<br \/>\nTo this familiar yet transformed expanse,<br \/>\nWhere every visit stirs memories that burn,<br \/>\nIn the park&#8217;s embrace, past and present dance.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">As if stepping back into a child&#8217;s reverie,<br \/>\nEvery corner, every turn, feels anew,<br \/>\nKenneth Hahn&#8217;s whispers of legacy,<br \/>\nHold the echoes of old, in morning&#8217;s dew.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">May 4, 2024<br \/>\nAt Kenneth Hahn Park<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>VI*. The Math 225 Trilogy<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>(i) <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/Ob5R71cmj98?si=Woh5mHtW6gPaWePX\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Algebraic Adventures: A Midterm Ode for My Students<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p id=\"9200\" class=\"pw-post-body-paragraph no np gt nq b nr ns nt nu nv nw nx ny nz oa ob oc od oe of og oh oi oj ok ol gm bj\" style=\"text-align: center;\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\">As the echoes of our midterm gently fade,<br \/>\nIn linear algebra\u2019s realm, our minds wade.<br \/>\nVectors, with direction, life\u2019s guiding thread,<br \/>\nPointing us forward, to where dreams are led.<\/p>\n<p id=\"c4f1\" class=\"pw-post-body-paragraph no np gt nq b nr ns nt nu nv nw nx ny nz oa ob oc od oe of og oh oi oj ok ol gm bj\" style=\"text-align: center;\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\">When linear combinations merge, two journeys unite,<br \/>\nSpanning connections, with pure-hearted might.<br \/>\nInvertible matrices, a path so clear,<br \/>\nEach determinant non-zero, brings solutions near.<\/p>\n<p id=\"d15c\" class=\"pw-post-body-paragraph no np gt nq b nr ns nt nu nv nw nx ny nz oa ob oc od oe of og oh oi oj ok ol gm bj\" style=\"text-align: center;\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\">Full rank, a beacon in hearts\u2019 sea,<br \/>\nSignaling independence, where vectors roam free.<br \/>\nRow echelon form, unfettered zeros appear,<br \/>\nGuiding through unknowns, eliminating fear.<\/p>\n<p id=\"1b46\" class=\"pw-post-body-paragraph no np gt nq b nr ns nt nu nv nw nx ny nz oa ob oc od oe of og oh oi oj ok ol gm bj\" style=\"text-align: center;\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\">Hidden in null space, dormant vectors wait,<br \/>\nRank-nullity\u2019s tale, their silent fate.<br \/>\nIn subspaces\u2019 dimension, where our paths align,<br \/>\nClosed under addition, in harmony divine.<\/p>\n<p id=\"aaed\" class=\"pw-post-body-paragraph no np gt nq b nr ns nt nu nv nw nx ny nz oa ob oc od oe of og oh oi oj ok ol gm bj\" style=\"text-align: center;\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\">So to my students, in this mathematical quest,<br \/>\nIn these formulas, your knowledge is blessed.<br \/>\nIn every pivot and swap, where dreams intertwine,<br \/>\nMay this journey of wonder, in your hearts forever shine!<\/p>\n<p id=\"3739\" class=\"pw-post-body-paragraph no np gt nq b nr ns nt nu nv nw nx ny nz oa ob oc od oe of og oh oi oj ok ol gm bj\" style=\"text-align: center;\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\">Your friend in time of need,<br \/>\nIvan<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\">Presidents\u2019 Day, 2024<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\"><strong>(ii) <a href=\"https:\/\/drive.google.com\/file\/d\/18UMHRBaAVvpXR1mJlnK8-xkdl6ULx9eW\/view?usp=sharing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">A Sonnet for Math 225 Scholars<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=K8vu9_Yp5M0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Listen to the poem here [read by Prof. Geske]<\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\"><span dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">In square matrices of love, solutions unique arise,<\/span><br role=\"presentation\" \/><span dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">Full rank ensures non-degenerate paths are bright.<\/span><br role=\"presentation\" \/><span dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">With each invertible quest, our spirit flies,<\/span><br role=\"presentation\" \/><span dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">Determinant of hope, never vanishing in midterm\u2019s night.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\"><span dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">No more lost in nullspace, our images shine true,<\/span><br role=\"presentation\" \/><span dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">Conquering trivial kernels, injective courage we secure.<\/span><br role=\"presentation\" \/><span dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">The Wronskian still intact, independent faiths renew,<\/span><br role=\"presentation\" \/><span dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">Spanning realms of wisdom, with linear truths pure.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\"><span dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">In cofactor\u2019s embrace, fear\u2019s minors fall,<\/span><br role=\"presentation\" \/><span dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">Though bases are transformed, hold invariant strength dear.<\/span><br role=\"presentation\" \/><span dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">Rank-nullity waves tales, as fate\u2019s echoes call.<\/span><br role=\"presentation\" \/><span dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">Eigenbasis nondefective, diagonalizable purities appear.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\"><span dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">In our journey\u2019s initial values, love\u2019s equation is set,<\/span><br role=\"presentation\" \/><span dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\">A differential path of joy, in moments we collect.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\">March 31, 2024<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\"><strong>(iii)\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/drive.google.com\/file\/d\/1GfuEeOWhcQQ3ve192JpBJT15AxBmF2JM\/view?usp=sharing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">A Final Linear Algebra Poem for You\u00a0<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=y4GAFVeg_sI&amp;t=2s\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Listen to the poem here [read by Emily\u00a0Ram\u00edrez]<\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">In the gentle embrace of linear algebra\u2019s lore,<br \/>\nWe wandered together, through formulas galore.<br \/>\nNow as the final equation finds its roots,<br \/>\nCongrats on mastering algebra\u2019s pursuits!<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">In this final chapter, as our paths diverge,<br \/>\nI cherish the memories, like a harmonic surge.<br \/>\nThough we bid farewell, our spirits entwined,<br \/>\nOn destiny\u2019s expansive graph, beautifully aligned.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">In life\u2019s grand matrix, plot your tales bold,<br \/>\nIn vectors of courage, with eigenvalues gold.<br \/>\nIn the span of my heart, you\u2019ve held a place,<br \/>\nA combination of grace, time shall never erase.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">You\u2019re not just students, but stars in my sky,<br \/>\nGlowing fervently, as moments slip by.<br \/>\nIn this sweet discussion parting\u2019s embrace,<br \/>\nYou\u2019ve warmed my heart, a feeling I\u2019ll forever chase.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">In the algebra of life, may your paths be clear,<br \/>\nWith knowledge and memories we hold dear.<br \/>\nWith courage as your compass, and love as your light,<br \/>\nIn the firmament of time, you\u2019ll shine ever bright!<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Your friend in time of need,<br \/>\nIvan<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">April 25, 2024<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>V. A Birthday Ode for Me<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Still walking forward, I want to sing with my heart.<br \/>\nExcited memories unroll, a life of wonder from the start.<br \/>\nThe sun shining bold, nightingales return from yesterday,<br \/>\nDelivering the charming rhyme, serenading ripples with tender art.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Do you feel it? A sunbeam is falling here.<br \/>\nA mint of melody rising, reflecting the billow\u2019s flair.<br \/>\nAll flowers blooming at the most enchanting moment,<br \/>\nIntoxicated by the sunrise, with lingering fondness in the air.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Like a song, floating years subtly pass by,<br \/>\nSwirling in the wind\u2019s land, dancing in the rainbow\u2019s sky.<br \/>\nLike a dream, unruly eagerness dwells,<br \/>\nGreeting the lost phoenix, still having the strength to fly.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Still walking forward, I want to sing with my heart!<br \/>\nInfinite aspirations arise, as fears drift apart.<br \/>\nLove\u2019s leaves awaken, reflecting dust\u2019s afterglow.<br \/>\nAt fate\u2019s crossroads, greeting the next wonder\u2019s start.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Mar 31, 2024<br \/>\nAt\u00a0Long Beach<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>IV. Campus\u2019s Ode to Tomorrow II<br \/>\n<\/strong>(<a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/ELGhsaH9wII?si=N5TXQbemsuLoDbsQ\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ivan&#8217;s Real Voice<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/CrL2lClwk_A?si=NCSU28MmCr8n-6XS\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ivan&#8217;s Cloned Voice<\/a>)<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">As new flowers unfold and grow,<br \/>\nAn ancient hall greets birds in tow.<br \/>\nThe wind shares spring\u2019s tender grace,<br \/>\nWelcoming a world with a nostalgic flow.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Care surrounds, and doubts abate.<br \/>\nOur dread and guard can liberate.<br \/>\nAs yesterday\u2019s shore gleams bright,<br \/>\nHope\u2019s beacon in our hearts lightens its fate.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">From dreamy realms to the fairyland,<br \/>\nClouds descend, the aurora to expand.<br \/>\nMelting ice, from the approaching shore,<br \/>\nResting surges in peace, a scene so grand.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">I cherish the sunlight so dreamy and free,<br \/>\nIlluminating the earth, without constraint or decree.<br \/>\nThrowing a hope to all, the sunset shines bold,<br \/>\nEmbraced by the sky, it twinkles with glee.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">As stars return home, all hopes are aglow.<br \/>\nIn twilight\u2019s repose, we bask in dreams\u2019 flow.<br \/>\nNostalgia\u2019s winds collect hope in the air,<br \/>\nOur destination, where wonders grow.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Ivan Z. Feng<br \/>\n3\/13\/2024<br \/>\nAt UCLA Campus<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=4SsRzTgCFwo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>III. Water Garden II<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">In a water garden, arisen as a dream,<br \/>\nEchoes of a memory, like a fleeting gleam.<br \/>\nDetached fountains lean in, eager and free,<br \/>\nAs the warm sky shares a trace of glee.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Carefree birds take flight, into dream\u2019s night,<br \/>\nAwaiting serenity\u2019s call, with all their might.<br \/>\nWeird flowers ponder, unruly light,<br \/>\nAs the sun keeps waiting in delight.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">When did the phoenix come to play?<br \/>\nHe\u2019s the same bird, awoken in yesterday.<br \/>\nTime has flown, oh so fast!<br \/>\nA port beckoning, he\u2019s come at last.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Everything now is poised and reset,<br \/>\nWind chases wind, as if in destiny\u2019s duet.<br \/>\nBefore the melancholy begins to soar,<br \/>\nFind their passion, find their shore.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">3\/12\/2024<br \/>\nSanta Monica Water Garden<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>II. The Childhood Trilogy<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>(i) Painting<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Pull out a piece of paper,<br \/>\nI\u2019m drawing the cloud in the sky.<br \/>\nThe one over there,<br \/>\nIt\u2019s like a candy, right?<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Look, there\u2019s a bird coming.<br \/>\nIt\u2019s pretty happy and free.<br \/>\nI want to have wings too,<br \/>\nBecause then I can taste the cloud.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Oh, the sun is out now.<br \/>\nDoes the bird like the sunshine?<br \/>\nI guess he does very much,<br \/>\nBecause he\u2019s flying faster.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">What\u2019s above the sky?<br \/>\nAre there any rivers there?<br \/>\nI wish I was the sun.<br \/>\nThen I can paint them all here.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Jan 5, 2024<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>(ii) Nature<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">I like nature,<br \/>\nBecause it looks great,<br \/>\nJust like me.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">There\u2019s a tree there.<br \/>\nIt\u2019s green and tall.<br \/>\nBirds like it.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Birds are awesome,<br \/>\nBecause they are so free.<br \/>\nThey can go almost everywhere.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">The sun is taller,<br \/>\nBut why aren\u2019t birds there?<br \/>\nMaybe it\u2019s too hot.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Trees are near the sun.<br \/>\nCan they feel the hot?<br \/>\nGuess yes, but they just can\u2019t move.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Ahead is a river.<br \/>\nIt\u2019s pretty long and blue,<br \/>\nLike the sky above it.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Looks like the sky is in the water.<br \/>\nI know it\u2019s reflection like a mirror,<br \/>\nBut does that make the river blue?<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">I really admire those fish,<br \/>\nBecause they are like the birds:<br \/>\nThey can fly in the water\u2019s sky.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Though birds can\u2019t go to the river,<br \/>\nIt looks like they and the fish are together.<br \/>\nThat\u2019s also cool, right?<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Always a lot to explore,<br \/>\nAnd it\u2019s easy to have fun.<br \/>\nThat\u2019s why I like nature.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Jan 6, 2024<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>(iii) Night<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev ew ex ey ez l\" style=\"text-align: center;\">\n<article>\n<div class=\"l\">\n<div class=\"l\">\n<section>\n<div class=\"fo fp fq fr fs\">\n<div class=\"ab ca\">\n<div class=\"ch bg fa fb fc fd\">\n<p id=\"f51d\" class=\"pw-post-body-paragraph mp mq fv mr b ms mt mu mv mw mx my mz na nb nc nd ne nf ng nh ni nj nk nl nm fo bj\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\">The night is deep.<br \/>\nHow deep is it?<br \/>\nIt\u2019s not like the river.<br \/>\nSo I can not measure.<\/p>\n<p id=\"bb7c\" class=\"pw-post-body-paragraph mp mq fv mr b ms mt mu mv mw mx my mz na nb nc nd ne nf ng nh ni nj nk nl nm fo bj\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\">There are lots of stars.<br \/>\nWhere were they in daylight?<br \/>\nOh, maybe just like the sun,<br \/>\nThey moved to the other side.<\/p>\n<p id=\"6be8\" class=\"pw-post-body-paragraph mp mq fv mr b ms mt mu mv mw mx my mz na nb nc nd ne nf ng nh ni nj nk nl nm fo bj\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\">There can be no stars though.<br \/>\nDid they forget to come?<br \/>\nThe sun never missed a day.<br \/>\nUh, it\u2019s just so weird.<\/p>\n<p id=\"a901\" class=\"pw-post-body-paragraph mp mq fv mr b ms mt mu mv mw mx my mz na nb nc nd ne nf ng nh ni nj nk nl nm fo bj\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\">Stars are many but small.<br \/>\nBut putting stars together,<br \/>\nWill they be bright as the sun?<br \/>\nGuess not, because nights are always dark.<\/p>\n<p id=\"be96\" class=\"pw-post-body-paragraph mp mq fv mr b ms mt mu mv mw mx my mz na nb nc nd ne nf ng nh ni nj nk nl nm fo bj\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\">Wait, did they ever come together?<br \/>\nMaybe they were together.<br \/>\nMaybe an explosion separated them?<br \/>\nSo they\u2019re now lonely.<\/p>\n<p id=\"674d\" class=\"pw-post-body-paragraph mp mq fv mr b ms mt mu mv mw mx my mz na nb nc nd ne nf ng nh ni nj nk nl nm fo bj\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\">How many stars are there?<br \/>\nAs many as people living here?<br \/>\nNo, I think stars are more than people,<br \/>\nBecause under many stars it\u2019s only me now.<\/p>\n<p id=\"8615\" class=\"pw-post-body-paragraph mp mq fv mr b ms mt mu mv mw mx my mz na nb nc nd ne nf ng nh ni nj nk nl nm fo bj\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\">The moon seems lonely too,<br \/>\nEven more lonely than the stars.<br \/>\nBecause stars are many.<br \/>\nBut the moon is only one.<\/p>\n<p id=\"daaa\" class=\"pw-post-body-paragraph mp mq fv mr b ms mt mu mv mw mx my mz na nb nc nd ne nf ng nh ni nj nk nl nm fo bj\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\">Is the moon like a big star?<br \/>\nWell, stars can twinkle,<br \/>\nBut the moon has never changed tonight,<br \/>\nSo, I think it\u2019s like the sun.<\/p>\n<p id=\"1f78\" class=\"pw-post-body-paragraph mp mq fv mr b ms mt mu mv mw mx my mz na nb nc nd ne nf ng nh ni nj nk nl nm fo bj\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\">Yeah, the moon is less lonely than the sun,<br \/>\nBecause it has stars in its sky.<br \/>\nStars are like people,<br \/>\nThey can always stay together.<\/p>\n<p id=\"9b80\" class=\"pw-post-body-paragraph mp mq fv mr b ms mt mu mv mw mx my mz na nb nc nd ne nf ng nh ni nj nk nl nm fo bj\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\">I want to go meet the sun.<br \/>\nBecause maybe it needs company.<br \/>\nNo stars are there with it yet,<br \/>\nI want to tell it \u201cI like you!\u201d<\/p>\n<p class=\"pw-post-body-paragraph mp mq fv mr b ms mt mu mv mw mx my mz na nb nc nd ne nf ng nh ni nj nk nl nm fo bj\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\">Jan 7, 2024<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"pw-post-body-paragraph mp mq fv mr b ms mt mu mv mw mx my mz na nb nc nd ne nf ng nh ni nj nk nl nm fo bj\" data-selectable-paragraph=\"\"><strong>I. New Dawn<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Stars\u2019 light gleaming,<br \/>\nMoments of freedom sway.<br \/>\nGrand waves fleeting,<br \/>\nTimes of golden memories stay.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Yesteryear\u2019s purity descending,<br \/>\nMelting glamor dwells.<br \/>\nNostalgic towers standing,<br \/>\nGuarding echoes of bells.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Lonely pebbles, hiding a tale,<br \/>\nRipples resonate with their trace.<br \/>\nThey seem like melancholy\u2019s tail,<br \/>\nOf past feeling\u2019s embrace.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Dewdrops shining,<br \/>\nThe moon\u2019s first hue.<br \/>\nCourageous paths aligning,<br \/>\nProtecting the heart-melting view.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Written on New Year\u2019s Day 2024<br \/>\nat the Westin-Bonaventure Hotel<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-811 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/zhanhu\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/215\/2024\/01\/20233.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"379\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/ivan\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/215\/2024\/01\/20233.png 300w, https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/ivan\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/215\/2024\/01\/20233-237x300.png 237w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\">Past Poems<\/h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/ivan\/2023-2\/\">2023<\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/ivan\/2022-2\/\">2022<\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/ivan\/20182021-2\/\">2018~2021<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\">Personal Poetry Links<\/h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/playlist?list=PL5Ir6_ZFOgX9jjBgP8NIBjmXShav_TC8S\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Youtube personal page<\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/poetizer.com\/author\/318075\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Poetizer\u00a0personal page<\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/medium.com\/ivans-poems\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Medium &#8220;Ivan&#8217;s Poetry&#8221; page<\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/medium.com\/visiting-the-mountaintop-of-ai\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Medium &#8220;Visiting the Poetic Mountaintop of AI&#8221; page<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-454 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/zhanhu\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/215\/2023\/10\/DALL\u00b7E-2023-10-13-13.22.44-illustration-of-Ivan-standing-amidst-a-whirlwind-of-floating-poetic-verses-and-diverse-languages-highlighting-his-love-for-language-learning-and-poet.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/ivan\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/215\/2023\/10\/DALL\u00b7E-2023-10-13-13.22.44-illustration-of-Ivan-standing-amidst-a-whirlwind-of-floating-poetic-verses-and-diverse-languages-highlighting-his-love-for-language-learning-and-poet.png 1024w, https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/ivan\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/215\/2023\/10\/DALL\u00b7E-2023-10-13-13.22.44-illustration-of-Ivan-standing-amidst-a-whirlwind-of-floating-poetic-verses-and-diverse-languages-highlighting-his-love-for-language-learning-and-poet-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/ivan\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/215\/2023\/10\/DALL\u00b7E-2023-10-13-13.22.44-illustration-of-Ivan-standing-amidst-a-whirlwind-of-floating-poetic-verses-and-diverse-languages-highlighting-his-love-for-language-learning-and-poet-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/ivan\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/215\/2023\/10\/DALL\u00b7E-2023-10-13-13.22.44-illustration-of-Ivan-standing-amidst-a-whirlwind-of-floating-poetic-verses-and-diverse-languages-highlighting-his-love-for-language-learning-and-poet-768x768.png 768w, https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/ivan\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/215\/2023\/10\/DALL\u00b7E-2023-10-13-13.22.44-illustration-of-Ivan-standing-amidst-a-whirlwind-of-floating-poetic-verses-and-diverse-languages-highlighting-his-love-for-language-learning-and-poet-320x320.png 320w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n  \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n      \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p style=\"text-align: left;\">For the poems marked with an asterisk (*), I give credit to AI for its assistance in enhancing the beauty of lines through word choice and improved flow. I find that AI can be a great tool in poetry writing, and I like to leverage its suggestions and incorporate them into my work using my carefully chosen expressions, ensuring that every line and word reflects my unique style and personal experience, still giving them a soul of my own. <a href=\"https:\/\/medium.com\/visiting-the-mountaintop-of-ai\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Here (&#8220;Visiting the Poetic Mountaintop of AI&#8221;)<\/a> are my stories of modifying my poems using AI.<\/p>\n<p>If you happen to enjoy reading or dubbing, you are welcome to read any of my poems above and email your recordings to me at <a href=\"mailto:ifeng@usc.edu\" target=\"_new\">ifeng@usc.edu<\/a>. I will post your recordings on this page, allowing everyone who visits to listen to your voice. Of course, please feel free to provide me with comments and critiques about my wording.<a style=\"text-align: center;\" href=\"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/zhanhu\/fall-2021\/\" target=\"_self\"><span style=\"text-align: right; color: #000000;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p><em>Last update: Nov 15, 2025<\/em><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/ivan\" target=\"_self\"><em>Back to my homepage<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n<p><script type=\"text\/javascript\">\/\/ <![CDATA[ window.open = function() { return true; } \/\/ ]]&gt;<\/script><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n\n\n      \n  \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--contact-details \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--contact-details\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n\n          <div class=\"header-container\">\n\n                      \n<div class=\"f--field f--section-title\">\n\n    \n  <h2>\n          Visitor Counter\n      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