The Path Ever Returns
돌고 돌아가는 길-노사연 No Sa Youn 1978 performed by Yoo Ji Na.
When I first heard this song I was immediately struck by its Buddhist theme. Even though I found the syntax and idiom difficult to understand, the message was not. My English interpretation below may reflect on my lack of understanding or skill but it was a useful exercise. On the other hand the lyrics and music have a certain intuitive appeal and art as a form of communication doesn't need to be precise or didactic. Yoo Ji Na gives a wonderful contemporary presentation. She could have just as easily done a more traditional Korean performance. I think this shows the staying power or universality of the Buddhist tradition which need not be bound to stereotypical ascetic trappings.
Climbing one mountain after another, turning and turning
Going up to that grave, where is it?
My feet turn and turn
I cross one river after another, flowing, flowing
Wet, immersed in that water, where does it lead?
Inside me, it flows and flows.
My feet only turn and turn
Beneath them many circles
My form passes by, inside me the wheel turns,
The cycle ever as it turns
If I don't go, what will happen?
The water is good, so the grave
Whatever I do, I must go.
Crossing one mountain after another,
On that turning, turning path
Even better with a smile
Why not a small turn as time passes?
One blossoms only for a brief time
Even though I circle, I must follow my dream.
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