Phra Aphai Mani

Peeriya Pongsarigun; John Viano

That day, Phra Aphai Mani and Sri Suwan arrived 
in front of the house and saw that fateful door closed. 
His Majesty read the missive upon it, 
proving it is the house of a musical maestro.
“That teacher who lives here, yet is now absent, 
plays his flute with sonorousness equal 
to his seriousness.” Thus, His Majesty’s speech, 
full of passionate vigor, let slip his passion 
for the musical arts. By way of reply, 
the younger prince shared a passion denied­—
that he should deign to learn the art of war.
If only he could dance sveltely with his poleaxe, 
all foes would be at his fearless mercy.
The elder prince thought, it’s true, mastering 
these martial arts is a virtue unassailable.
While he longed for more vulgar things, 
as can be found in the musical arts, 
the old master’s song crept into his heart.
With a flute at his lips, he was transported 
away from his struggles as notions 
of manliness and womanliness faded 
into the musical void.His longing to play 
turned into thoughts of delay, in consideration 
of what treasure he needed to pay 
to learn to make song.The younger Sri Suwan, 
usually quite cunning, allowed himself 
an indelicate grin in answer to his elder brother. 
My rings and glittering baubles have some worth, 
perhaps a thousand talent-weights of gold—
Perhaps enough to convince our teachers 
to accept other treasures, and accept us 
as students both. As for me, older brother, 
I shall endeavor to learn my martial arts well 
to master my poleaxe professionally.
I pray, my dear elder brother, bide your time here 
in wait of your maestro. When you’re finished, 
my artistic king and brother, I’ll come quickly 
to meet you here at your maestro’s place.