[Larger Than Architecture] A Line from a Poem that Shook Me

*Editor’s note: K-VIBE invites experts from various K-culture sectors to share their extraordinary discovery about the Korean culture.

[Larger Than Architecture] Chapter 1. This World We Live In

Ep. 7. A Line from a Poem that Shook Me

By Kim Won (Master K-architect)

“I came to find you, Sun-a. You are indeed all around me. When I walk alone on Jongno, you smile and come from all directions. (Omitted) After crossing over the mountain with the flower-covered coffin that day, only an empty sky remains in my eyes, with not a single strand of hair to touch, and the rain keeps falling… (Omitted) Scattered on the streets of Jongno, children chattering in the sunlight. Among them, those around nineteen or twenty years old. In their eyes, veins, and hearts, you sit, Sun-a! Sun-a! Sun-a! Now you are all coming to me.” - Seo Jeong-ju (1915–2000), “Resurrection”

A long time ago, when I lost my younger sister who was two years younger than me, I was not just sad, but truly desolate, resentful, and angry. I felt resentful towards God. Now I live with the memory of that sister beside me. I wonder if the survivors of the Sewol ferry disaster might find some solace in reading Mi-dang’s poem “Resurrection” as I did. For the Korean people, there is a deeply rooted belief in resurrection. No one doubts the story of Shim Cheong becoming an empress in the Dragon Palace and resurrecting.

A few days ago, I met with the mothers of three high school girls who were victims of the Danwon High School tragedy. I had no words to offer, so I simply said, “Oh, I see.” The mothers, holding back tears that seemed on the verge of spilling from their big, glistening eyes, looked as if they might burst into tears with just a touch.

I found “Resurrection” in Mi-dang’s poetry collection and said, “Please take a look at this. It might offer some comfort.” “Shim Cheong beautifully resurrected. For some reason, this story warms our hearts without any doubt.” Is profound sorrow more sorrowful because it is beautiful? Thinking of how “the young mothers, though engulfed in sorrow, are truly beautiful,” made my heart feel a bit lighter and thus even more aching.

JoongAng Ilbo, September 10, 2014