It’s Greek to Me

(Dr Maung Maung Nyo)

I thought I was smart enough
To understand any subject on earth
Having trained in medicine and arts
I have served two countries first class
But there is something Greek to me at last.

There are some guys in America
Who always sing for its splendour
Even though its people are becoming poorer
They still say they’ll prosper again for sure.

They always defend for this nova mater
Even when compared with their alma mater
They said the latter was cruel to their career
They are now happy only with this new mother.

When US financial institutions are falling apart
People are protesting president and party as much
“Don’t save the banks, save the people first”, they blurt
One guy is saying his POTUS and party are just smart.

Every day stocks and shares are tumbling down
US banks and money lenders are in stamped now
Jobs and labour markets are already gone
Many people are crying foul, struggling along.

If financial crisis occurs the logic is to help the consumers
Their bank accounts, possessions and investment are to be in order
The government must devise ways to rescue them quickly
Now, America is trying to rescue banks and moneyed hands stupidly!

I don’t understand the working of the economics
Least of all that of the East of Pacific
But US turmoil is showing its effects in Malaysia and Australia
It will also affect the rest of Asia and the world
That’s why I said it’s Greek to me this matter
Who will settle it for better?

Dr Maung Maung Nyo
30.9.2008

Image from http://deathby1000papercuts.com/2008/05/economy-news-of-americas-economic-death-greatly-exaggerated/

Missing My Mates and Milieus

I’m in the midst of a whirlwind
I’m taking leisure out of touring
I’ll reach Australia in a swirling
Then I’ll reach Burma in a swing
Before I join again my kind Kuching
It would be a complete circus surreal swing.

All UNIMAS said “Good bye” to me
When I told them I have to leave them quickly
But I would part them only temporarily
They then missed my presence and personality
They recognized my service as worthy
Dean offered me another job in the faculty.

Friends and colleagues feasted me
They were so sad to part hastily
After we have worked so much closely
Every thing has fitted so snugly
It will be like a loss of kingpin in the circuitry
They wanted me to come back early.

It was 9th August 2008 Saturday
We left Kuching on a hazy day
It’s usual for Sarawak to be in haze
When Indonesians burn the forest to place
Ginger seeds and maize to grow later date
So, they will have a harvest to celebrate.

We’re lucky to escape the incoming haze
That would put the Sarawakians in disgrace
Many foreign experts used to flee Kuching to escape
Now we’re doing the same they teased
While sending off our friends pleaded
We must come back after a few weeks.

Our daughters greeted us with smiles
They made us warm and wild
They had arranged all in time
Every thing was ready and refined
We’re honoured guests like divine
They made our life sublime.

However, I miss something every day
Is it clean air of Kuching or some malaise?
Malays deal life in slow and steady way
Thy say life is not a “rat race”
It’s to be lived in pace
Time, effort and energy you save!

I remember teaching Malay students
In slow and steady sequence
Of lectures with repeated utterance
They listened with due attendance
Mixed with curiosity and suspense
They do not like none sense.

I remember showing practical
One by one step by step to be gradual
So that they could do every thing sequential
Eventually it becomes elemental in progression
I also explained examination questions
Yes, they passed with flying colours.

I was given a computer with “Internet”
I could write, correspond and chat
At any time of the day as I like
It’s a great opportunity I valued high
It’s the modern man’s right
It’s different from Rangoon nights.

I have private email connections
I also joined loops and group actions
I some times have a hundred in one session
I used to answer all the questions
But, what is here as benediction?
I was just an Internet infatuation.

I daily checked AMIM website
It was entertaining day or night
Doctors write with speed, spice or no spite
It’s their right and they may also be right
But their responsibility was high
They have medical ethics and conducts to abide.

AMIM website contains news views and visions
I think personal attacks are out of the question
I therefore miss most of the blogs
Even though I don’t know them a lot
I noticed some regular writers there
They are from UK, USA Canada and Australia

There is a regular contributor from UK
He supplied up-to-date news and essays
About Burma without any personal say
He lost his passport on his way to UK
So, he has to be there and stay
He is a naturalized Briton now a day.

A witty poet and writer regularly contributes
From the north of England in multitudes
About love, life, sport and sex etc
He is the P.G. Woodhouse of this era
He is also naturalized Mr Burma
He salutes his Queen and the Britannia.

A similar bloke wrote from Canta Bridgia
He is a new comer from Burma
He writes plays, poems, puns and humours
Pulling down other people’s legs in ardour
His acid pen is pointed but not pernicious, I gather
I took his writings as humourous not harmer.

Two regular guys were meek and mild
They may always be in smiles
They write un-spicy and unsavory in kind
They never attack any body blind
They have their own style
They belong to North American wild.

Another Guy is an adjective American
He despised the term hyphenated American
He writes or asks about every thing under the sun
Yes, he lacks sun in his region
He always is shivering
He is struggling to survive big lake winds.

There are two bananas writing with long winds
They preach Republicanism with grins
“They exhort to be selfish first
Then, work for the mass,” they assert
It’s a shameless mass
They are the anti-thesis of Karl Marx!

There are one or two expatriate patriots
Who talked about revolution and anti-junta plots
One publicly asked strategy for armed revolt
Another one never worked for the poor lots
Yet, he claimed he is still a patriot or that sort
We met interesting self promoting selfish sloth.

There was one ex-sport med man
He talked about money, mansion and woman
He asked about Burmese teachers taking bribes
He forgot that teachers are not Bureaucrats
They are not in a position to award or punish
I/m sure he was sailing tight and missed!

Now that US presidential election is near
Democrats and Republicans may sneer at each other
There may be wagers on own candidate and party
But there is no difference in the outcome ultimately
Obama is half only in either black or white category
Mccain is also right only half in his territory.

Apart from occasional outbursts
AMIM bloggers are good and smart
They are medical graduates first
They don’t know politics smart
They also care about the world last
But, they love Burma fast.

This does not mean they are callous
To the situations and poor events happening to earth
They are in fact caring and loving in their hearts
They send best wishes, prayers, money and kind to mass
Just that they are behaving as been conditioned
After all, they are products of Burmese education.

They have been helping each other
Albeit with jokes, smeasr and swears
They donate to charity in Burma
They volunteered in aid of victims for natural disasters
They risked their lives in such endeavours
They are keen to show their kindness and Cetana.

I don’t find any fault with them
I’m just enjoying the merry mayhem
Where every body speaks and slams
Ultimately all are in Burma’s turmoil
Every body must work and toil
We must save our country in time.

So, thank you to all of you
I say, “Sadu, Sadu, Sadu” for the merits due
I have neither met or seen some of you
Still I regard all of you as friends
Whether you have been one or mine student
I’m glad were meeting in a virtual event.

My computer was vandalized before
My email was hacked often or so
My modem was attacked not long ago
I must wait until it is replenished
I’m now in a state of slick
I’m still touring and swirling swift
I will rejoin you AMIM for bliss
Please bear with me for this hiss or kiss!

Dr Maung Maung Nyo
3.9.2008 (original)

Luxury of Leisure

I once read Theikpan Maung Wa
About his life at Tada-U Inwa
When he was an ICS on job-training
Many future parents-in-law came claiming.

He led then a good life
Free from struggle and strife
Breakfast to dinner was a delight
He was pampered till night.

I remember his article as “Luxury”
“See-Sein” in Burmese terminology
I appreciate it as his best soliloquy
It struck in my heart as “sheer luxury”.

I’m having it right now
Nescafe and croissant in the morn
Balachang Rosalle soup and pork at luncheon
I ate other Burmese food at sundown.

Croissant was no mean bread
China’s Paramount Leader Deng coveted
He brought it from Paris to Beijing
He fed his old comrades within his means.

They all were croissant lovers
They ate it in France with ardour
When they were communist cadres
It was before China was taken over.

I have been drinking Nescafe
Since 1960 without milk or honey
It stimulates my thinking and hobby
It still does as a mental remedy.

In between the meals I watched television
It’s full of news, sport stories and information
When tired I just slept on the sofa cushion
I would have a cup of tea on awakening.

This tea is made in Burma
Freeze-dried and packed like Waifer
Manufactured for mobility and aroma
I like it as a tasty treasure.

All Burmese foods are available in Sydney
From Nga-Yant-Chauk- Kyaw to Nga-Yoke-Si
Fried Rosalle, Mango Sanap, Pea Hin-Yi
There’s an assortment of sheer Burmese delicacies.

I would take a shower on sunny days
I would change dress and walk my way
To the Pacific Square and Maroubra Bay
I have fresh air and rejuvenated, I must say.

At other times I write poetry
It’s simply a soliloquy
I compose my thoughts in melody
Words become music notes threaded in harmony.

Writing poetry brings immense pleasure
It marks the supreme moment of leisure
You forget whatever is distressing your nature
You achieve great accomplishment as a writer.

All my works in Kuching are done by friends
Drs Soe Lwin and Tin Moe, my old students
They take care of my mails, money and documents
Nan and I now have some time so pleasant.

Nan takes care of my daily life
From breakfast to bed at night
She reminds me of taking medicine
I have to take it regularly in precision.

She sometime cooks Mohinga
To be eaten together
Daughters, friends and mother father
All enjoy the feast as fair.

Also she made special dishes
Like Soon-Tan soup and tongues of pigs
Cooked in oil with spices
We all ate at harts’ delight.

Our daughters provide us with daily comfort
From a cozy abode to daily dote
How we are faring as in Olympian sport
They shower us with money and Metta most.

I’ve cut off the emails
To prevent them interfering my way
My mind is as clean as clay
I would call it a day.

It’s the luxury I enjoy
It’s the first time in my life
I never had such primes
I’m fortunate I can enjoy it alright.

Dr Maung Maung Nyo
31.8.2008 (original)

Serenade at Seventy

I’m surprised that I live this long
I would be seventy after this birthday now
Not in English norm but in Chinese measure
When birth itself is counted as one year.

As you know I was born in Monywa
Busiest town after Mandalay in Upper Burma
Situated on the east bank of Chindwin River
It’s famous for Ledi Sayadaw and others.

My father was a member of the Dhobamar
My mother was a typical Myanmar
He fought for independence of Burma
She fought for our education and our welfare.

My parents schooled me to the end
I had the best education possible then
I won the scholarship at standard seven
I attended Mandalay premedical haven.

I entered the University of Rangoon
I took part in all its activities soon
Stay in Mandalay Hall was good fortune
My university life was really a boon.

I have a sojourn in Mandalay
It was a medico for 3 years’ stay
It portrayed me as a student activist
I led social and reading club politics.

I returned to Rangoon in final years
To continue my activities so far
To uplift the cause of the poor
I also studied hard for my future.

There were romances in final years
I was lured by love and laughter
After graduation I became a military doctor
New experiences were real adventures.


I treated patients for healing sake
Never for name and money to make
I also taught to students first aids
Teaching, reading made me feel great.

I trained at the BMH hospital wards
I was doing my duties always superb
My superiors were satisfied enough
State scholarship was thrust into my grasp.

I was sent to the Shan State
I took part in many fights at stake
To repel the KMT and rebel renegades
Treating civilians and soldiers alike was great.

I wrote stories and articles on medicine
For lay people’s education and participation
In all health activities of the nation
I made them participate in health mission.

I was selected as a scholar at 24
Destined to UK as a WHO fellow
How fortunate I was, they say so
I thank my mentor and teachers of yore.

I had a first class training in London
My supervisor was a magnificent madam
Only female anatomy professor at the time
She was President of Anatomy Society to shine.

I have been to many universities in UK
I have met many anatomists of the day
I learned a lot in teaching and research
I got a Ph.D. as a reward.

Ph.D. is the higher degree a university offers
To a student whose research and endeavor
Is up to the mark of authentic teachers
It recognizes one as an educational leader!

Jobs were offered to me in Britain
A Saudi friend also maintained
A medical school was opened there
I may get a job there easier and better.


But, I returned to my country
Opportunities were plenty
For teaching research and social reform
I was young and full of forms.

I was appointed professor in the age 30s
I joined professor rank as rarity
But I really tried hard in my field
I initiated many postgraduate degrees.

I started sex education in Burma
Dr Ba Than lent me his favour
He wrote a foreword in my first endeavour
“Science, Sex and Marriage’ has been a best seller.

I supported students’ activities
Both sport and literary necessities
Also other extracurricular activities
I planned to promote perfect personalities.

No doubt there were difficulties
As regards examination and exigencies
There had been indulgences and inefficiencies
A strict stalwart had to face insolence and insurgencies.

Sincere people valued my contributions
I was sent in many state study delegations
I trained in the science of medical education
I was the first to get a degree in the latest vocation.

I have been offered promotions
More than once in my profession
But, I was happy in my position
A professor can do a lot for education.

I have a devoted wife
She has sacrificed her life
Fight for me and the family
I am very happy.

My daughters are dainty and daring
They are hungry for their education
They succeeded in getting good occupation
I have full satisfaction.


On looking back I have done a lot
For my people with what they got
In medical and lay education need to be taught
Social and political activities as were wrought.

Between the rulers and the ruled
I was always sided with the people
Some overt, some covert, others obscure
But my activities are for people to be sure.

A man is born in a day
He would also die one day
He does not know where he comes from
He also has no idea to go after life now.

What is important in life?
It’s full of strife
Age seventy is not a big prize
It is also not a small size.

My English friends used to ask me
If I had done some thing fully
“Will you like to repeat it?” duly
“Yes, I will!” I would answer
It’s the same for my life so far
It’s a most satisfying life ever.

I have met many co travelers
Some perished in the first quarter
Others limp to the last leg further
Ageing, disease, death is the determiner
No one can escape the law of nature
Anicca, Dukkha, Anatta is always there
No one can escape from her
Oh, let me have a shorter sojourn in Samsara!

N.B.: Dhobama = Our Burman Association: Its members were called Thakhin (Master)
Anicca = Impermanence, Dukkha = Suffering, Anatta = Not mine
Samsara = Cycle of births and rebirths


Dr Maung Maung Nyo
18.7.2008 (original)
Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.

Great Enchanting Garden

A gardener invited me to visit his garden
He said it’s not so great but a small haven
One can scent flowers and make them garland
Birds and butterflies boom with buds and blend.

One day I visited his garden plot
To see his flowers and check on the spot
To enjoy its scenery and scents of various sorts
I will have pleasure peace and comfort.

There are red and white paper flowers
Guarding the garden as blooming borders
Parchment like and paper thin but real ones
It bewitches the visitor and makes one warm.

Bamboo plants block the intervals
Making fence impenetrable and eternal
Hanging bird nests swirl in circles
Sparrows and snipes sing sentimental.

Paths are winding but wide
Bounded by bricks and bloomimg flowers
One can walk softly on the sandy white
Rose and jasmine scent the air.

Daisies, dahlias, daffodils abound
Birds and bees frolicking around
Cuckoo, cockatoo and cocks cooed
It is a place of pleasure so cool!

Men, women, girls and boys throng
Some of them were playing around
Some were found sitting under the shade
They were eating picnics they had made.

Some were sleeping under the trees
Others were catching the bees
A few were fly-fishing free
Many spectators found them funny.

This place is good for rest and leisure
One can find peace and pleasure
But you would not find serious literature
So, forget about the serious researchers.

Many people are ready to share their food
They would welcome you to their group
They are friendly and funny but fond to argue
It’s of course a family feud.

The garden has its own beauty
It does not exist in reality
It truly is virtual world
You can forgive and forget others.

Once I lost my ID
I could not enter it easily
I had to call for help early
So I have uninterrupted entry.

Entering it makes me smart
I am always alert
My wife even said as such
It’s good enough.

Sometimes you get pleasure out of it
Sometimes you are in anguish
Other times you want to vomit
Often you like to hit
All the time you miss
Yes, you are an addict
It’s the AMIM website trick!

Dr Maung Maung Nyo
10.7.2008

The Unforgettable July

July is the historic month in Burma
Many events happened to remember
Some sad and sordid, other happier
But it’s more historic than ever.

On 7th July nineteen sixty two (1962)
Bloodbath occurred in crimson hue
Bo Ne Win issued order without a clue
To fire Rangoon University students who
Protest against his Government military might
That came to power without a fight
Now diminishing universities and students’ rights
It was really a bloody massacre that night!

He dynamited the Student Union Building
That was the historic monument of the nation
Where Aung San, Ko Nu and others envisioned
Independence of Burma and free education
For people to progress to peace and prosperity
For students to study science and society
For workers to work without worry for welfare
It was the cradle of Burma’s future leaders.

Ne Win had habit of harming historic relics
He destroyed workers’ column with relish
He said it was a monument for communists
He dynamited stone slab for Aung Kyaw’s statute
Where patriotic students used to salute
As Aung Kyaw was killed by British brutes
With mounted horses and baton practice
He fell, cracked his head and was vanquished.

Ne Win even moved the Kyandaw Cemetery
From centre of the city to its periphery
It had tombs of Burma’s heroes and hierarchy
Dr Ba Than, Bamaw Tin Aung and many literati
Even his wife Khin May Than and other Devis
Dagon Khin Khin Lay, Ma Ma Lay and koomari
Thakhin Soe and his rowdy Red Flag followers
Bo Ne Win must be haunted and frightened, I’m sure.


And there is 19th July Martyr’s Day
Burma cannot forget it in any way
Bogyoke Aung San was murdered on that day
Eight of his followers were also slay
It was grave, gloomy and godless day
The court found U Saw and his lackeys
Guilty without reasonable doubts, they say
U Ne Win and his cohorts’ roles were also in play.

On the brighter side, July is jolly
It’s in Burma raw and very rainy
Fruits and flies fight with families
Mango and mice mix maliciously
Boys and girls frolic in water merrily
Dagon Taryar’s lovers locked hands lustily
Buddhist monks lie in lent languidly
It’s time of year to spend time silently.

Many bright persons were born this month
Princess Diana denoted dainty and dalliance
George W Bush is US President of war in defiance
Dalai Lama and Mandela grace the great grant
Hawthorne and Hemingway were in literary front
Dr Mya Tu led Burma medical research giants
Yours faithfully is also not to be left relent
He heals, he teaches, he writes, time well spent.

July was named after Julius Caesar
He was honored by his nephew Czar
Augustus by adding his name and Caesar’s
Thus he added two months to the year
So we have 12 months instead of ten here
Gregorian calendar has changed for ever
10th month December becomes 12th in number
People accept it, a whopping world wonder.

So, how do you like to look at July?
As a month you want to cry!
Or a time you want to ply
In a boat with your sweetheart
Picking Thabye Thi and eat smart
Or observing Buddhist Sabbath
Or read and write to your heart content
In any way it will be a time well spent!

Dr Maung Maung Nyo (5.7.2008)

A Tree by the Road Side

(Dr Maung Maung Nyo)


There is a tree by the road side
Sun or shower it stands upright
When wind stormed with all its might
It still stands straight upright.

In hot humid weather people sit under her
They rest, they talk and take shelter
They walk away when feel fresh and better
No one says “Good bye” or “Thanks” to her.

Sometimes birds chirp on the tree
Those dozing complain it’s noisy
If the birds drop their faeces
The ‘lucky’ men will exclaim in expletives.

The tree blooms beautiful flowers
Bird, bees, butterflies gather together
It’s nice to watch and wonder
But for some, beestings is a mortal danger.

In the early summer gales gash
Leaves, twigs and branches crash
They may strike the onlookers in a dash
But it’s only an accidental bash.

Boys climb the tree to get flowers
They want to please their lovers
Some may fall and get injured
Then they blame the tree for ever.

Is it the tree at fault?
It’s growing in this lot
It gives shelter, beauty and what not
I wish the tree could speak as Camelot!

Dr Maung Maung Nyo,
22.6.2008
Camelot: A place of beauty, tranquility and enjoyment in King Arthur’s Reign

Happy Birthday to Daw ASSK

19th June is her birthday
"Happy Birthday" we all say
She has led us all the way
Sacrificing her luxurious days.

She was born a tender girl
She could have lived very well
Detached and disinterested in our affairs
Yet, she plunged into our hell.

Why did she do so?
She wishes to be a hero?
She wishes to help her ego?
She wishes to elevate her status quo?

No! No! It was for her country
To be democratic and free
So that people can deal
With their problems and see
What a good life should be!

She herself in jeopardy
Incarcerated as a detainee
Cut off from her progenies
Even from her dying hubby
What an Immortality or Ar-Zar-Ni!

Oh, "Happy Birthday Daw Aung San Suu Kyi
We wish you to be free!
Let the time come for it to be
Free, Free, Daw Aung san Suu Kyi!".


Dr Maung Maung Nyo
17.6.2008
( In honour of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi's Birthday June 19, 1945)

Ode to My Alma Mater

A colleague wrote to me this morning
Asking about the history of Thit Pote Pin
That still stands though broken and thinning
It's a witness to my mother's wellbeing.

The Thit Pote Pin and Gantgaw trees
Were planted together with the university
When it came into being in nineteen twenty (1920)
It heralded home rule, independence struggles and democracy.

Yes, Rangoon University was in the forefront of struggles
For anti-colonialism, anti-Fascism and anti-Military hurdles
Many of her sons sacrificing their lives, limbs and laurels
Their aim was for the colonialists and capitalists to be toppled.

There was first university strike led by U Ba U
Followed by the second and third led by U Nu
Of course Aung San was in the struggle too
He led independence movement almost through
That U Nu saw to it to be true
It's aided by graduates guiding the people.

It was associated with famous individuals
U Pe Maung Tin was the first Burmese principal
He produced many Burmese writers of super-able
That started the Khit San Sar Pay or "testing the literal"
Theik Pan Maung Wa, Zaw Gyi and Min Th Win are special
Their fame remains eternal.

Dr Htin Aung was the first Burmese rector
He excelled in English literature
He led the University in many adventures
That enlarged and entertained the Burmese world.

Rangoon University was one of the best
In South East Asia and the rest
A place of higher learning and intellect
We took great pride as fact.

However, she was beset with woes and worries
As government and opposition parry
October Students Strike, 7th July Massacre and other calamities
Hamstrung the academe and extra-curricular activities
It was closed off and on by the authorities
It now remains only a name in history.

Thit Pote Pin is a witness to University's activities
It saw the high and low of its destiny
It is rendezvous for lovers, loiterers and literati
So was the Convocation Hall to its alumni
Many graduates chose to be conferred their degrees
In her famed domain and domineering dignity.

I remember I was conferred the degree
By Vice Chancellor U San Lwin for the University
Acting on behalf of the Chancellor U Nu, PM of the country
We were so proud, pleased and same time panicky
Our antics caused laughter and soliloquy
But we're happy, really happy to be.

My heart leaps up whenever I pass Inya
I still feel I belong to my alama mater for ever
I take pride and feel weak in this era
A landmark of lofty lives have fallen over
A lion has been killed by leech and loafers
Burma has lost its identity for ever!

Dr Maung Maung Nyo
10.6.2008 (Original)

Ode To My Father

Oh', Father's Day is approaching
My heart is grinding and galloping
I am missing my father also
He has been with me since I know!

My father was tall and handsome
Like actor Kyaw Aye of A_One
He was popular since young
He was gregarious, gamely and warm.

He was a natural leader
Followed by others like a teacher
He took good care of followers
He was a member of the Dohbama.

He was a disciple of Kodaw Hmaing
Who was the GOM of all time
Organised the people to follow their line
For anti_British and anti_Japanese grinds.

He was a descendent of royalty
But he regarded it as derogatory
He was for independence and democracy
The rest is nothing salutatory.

But, he looked after his family
With love, care and fidelity
We never were hungry
Even when taken away by Jap army.

He therefore discouraged me in politics
Lest my future be restrictive
He urged me to join academics
To be peaceful and progressive.

My father died with an empty hand
He was age seventy and eleven
His life was beyond I can apprehend
People mourned and kissed his hand.

Now, I'm near the end of life journey
I wonder whether I may have his itinerary
A man's image is not what he made
It's the people that partake.

Oh, I'm his son and his lineage
I wish to hold his heritage
A man of sincerity, sympathy and courage
I wish that I have his image!

Dr Maung Maung Nyo
15.6.2008
(To My Father on Father's Day)

A Star is Born

(Happy Birthday to Professor Hla Yee Yee)


“Happy Birthday Shwe Shwe”
Friends say fondly today
I also say the same to her
As she is my friend and philosopher.

You have being a good mate
Helping others up to date
You have never failed a call
You answered ardously to one and all.

You are happy making friends
Happier helping them in distress
Besides cooking in the kitchen
You always satisfy a hungry husband.

Yes, you are a wife
Devoted to complement his life
Gave birth to his children
Educate and nurture them.

You are a doctor
You are a teacher
You are a poet
You possess everything we covet.

Yes, a star is born in our country
It shines for every one to see
A woman, a wife and a mother
A poet, a teacher and a social worker
We all can rejoice for her for ever
She is our friend and philosopher.

May she enjoy today and many more
As every one loves and wishes her so!

Dr Maung Maung Nyo
29.5.2008 (On Shwe Shwe's Birthday)

Ageing Anon Anicca

Every thing has an age
Even a nail when made
One day it has to fade
That’s the law nature made.

I know I have a life span
That extends from first birthday
To last day as a man
Who drops and disintegrate like clay.

I never thought of ageing
As it’s coming when young
I was happy in staging
Sports, studies and sex with songs sung.

In the prime of life
I have no strife
Every thing comes in order
I just have to be the coordinator.

Children come and grow
They become big and bellow
Health education job galore
Fortunate they now glow.

But body shows signs
Memory has declined
Diseases have multiplied
Problems have sublimed.

Oh, what does all this mean?
Has ageing started clean?
Law of Anicca is beginning
To show its teeth gleaming!

Dr Maung Maung Nyo
1.6.2008

Cry Burma!

Gold, silver and diamond covered stupas of Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon
© Photographer: Bernard Napthine. All images Lonely Planet Images.

Burma was once the rice bowl of Asia
Richer and fitter than Thailand and Malaysia
Hunger was not known any where
People were sure of their future.

There also was some democracy
A government was elected 4-yearly
Although it was dominated by a party
People still could air differences freely.

There was a free press
Opposition could move more or less
Workers and students had their say
They could march and protest any day.

I have lived and enjoyed that era
As student, soldier, doctor and author
Most people seemed to be happy everywhere
They had job, food, shelter and future assured.

All the good things have to end
So that new things could set a trend
General Ne Win staged a coup then
1962 saw Burma's democracy at an end.

Burma's misery started since then
Workers' strikes, students' protests often
Rice and food shortage, schools stoppage at hand
Every thing a mess in economic trend!

With economic mess and social unrest
First educated, then skilled workers left
There was a brain drain and a vacuum created
That later became a continuum much debated.

So the people became poorer
The country became a pauper
Burma officially was declared an LDC
It ignited the 1988 calamity.

The whole country revolted in unison
Calling for democracy and reform
But the army gunned them down
People's aspiration and goodwill has gone.

Since then, a Burmese diaspora is born
Doctors, engineers, scholars and students have flown
To border countries and far-flung territories
They become new Burmese overseas societies.

A constant battle is going through
Between the SPDC and people
Both inside and outside the country
They are fighting for a democratic entity.

People at large suffer in this fight
They are hungry and weak in might
They don't know fully their rights
It's pitiable indeed their poor plight!



Nature has then joined the generals
Cyclone Nargis has proved to be lethal
Tens of thousand of people have perished
Many more victims lay languished.

The SPDC's response is so minimal
The Katrina response could be termed "beneficial"
The generals are flat-footed in this sequel
They don't want their regime to be terminal!

Oh, Mother Nature! You are so cruel
Why should Burma be so fatal!
There also were callous galling generals
You should at least have been kind,
Cry Burma!

Dr Maung Maung Nyo
12.5.2008

Referendum

There will be a plebiscite
For the people to decide
The new constitution of Myanmar
So that people will have power.

But who draw the draft?
It was by the military craft
All are appointed by top brass
They say it’s for the mass!

Do you really need a referendum?
Just to maintain the continuum
Of the present rule
That excludes the people!

What we need is a government
Elected by the people for the people
That is democratic and transparent
It keeps its promises true.

They ignore the 1990 elections
Will they honour this time too
If results differ from their expectations
Who can guarantee end of their rule?

Dr Maung Maung Nyo
25.4.2008

Kindred Kuala Lumpur

We flew to Kuala Lumpur
From March 25th to 27th tour
To renew our passports that’s due
We’re excited and trembled too.

It was “Air Asia” Nan and I boarded together
The budget airline of Malaysia
Easy, cheap, punctual and dasher
Plane and hostesses are all red colour!

We drove from airport to Myanmar Embassy
In the fastest taxi in a hurry
To catch the officials for submission of money
Let they finish passport renewal handsomely.

We saw tens and twos of Burmans here and there
They are waiting for their assignments to be clear
So, they loitered inside Embassy to be near
When the officer would grant favour with an answer!

Officer accepted our application and passports
But he said we come next day for official rappport
They have hundreds of them for daily report“This is a favour!”, he retort’d.

We went back calm, cool and collected
We window-shopped and inspected
All the roadside shops and restaurants
We intend to buy gifts and goodies for presents.

We gave a dinner at night
To Burmese medical teachers at sight
Who have left Burma for its worsening plight
Now, they think they’re right.

There was ‘A beauty and two laughs”
Who trained “Mr Donald Dharma” to be tough
Who bullies” Mr High” since Mandalay
That was not lost to Physiologist “Nyunt Way”.


His better half is smart too
She was the “Queen Pin” in the pool
Even the “Flower Brother” and her darling cooed
To let kindly “Khin“ Win and her hubby blew.

We talked, joked and shared gossip
We did not know even the time slip
Yes, this may be the last we meet
We may not see each other in the next trip.

The dinner was memorable too
It has Chinese roasted duck cut in two
Skin first and meat mixed with vegetable stew
Then we ate seaweed soup, pork ribs and “Tofu”.

The “Si-Chuan” tea was strong and aromatic
It refreshed our memory and romantics
Not to say any thing of our appetite witch
We ate the last fried rice with relish.

Friends saw us in our “Hotel”
They bid us “Fare Well”
Not just by words, but by heart
It really hurts.

Next day at breakfast we met a lady
She was the head waitress in the lobby
She spoke to us in Burmese
She was modern, modest and motherly.

We met Burmese all around us
In the hotel, wayside vendors, restaurants and clubs
There are Burmans, Burmans every where
They are working and establishing new lives in Malaysia.

I was excited with their encounters
Happy to see the Burmans employed here
But, it evokes a sense of nostalgia
Who would strive and struggle for poor Burma?

Dr Maung Maung Nyo
28.03.2008

Historic Sorry

On 13th February
PM Kevin Rudd says "Sorry"
To the Australian Aborigines
For the crime against their ancestry
By taking their children away
To be trained in the Western way.

All Aussies cheer the apology
With satisfaction and understanding
For the crime committed cruelly
To the first citizens of the country
It's indeed a crime against humanity
All colonialists should utter apology.

I say "Sadu", thrice to thee
O PM Rudd and progressive Aussies
You have shed imperialist policy
For the good of your country
But, it's also good for humanity
It would shine in world's history
It's really a great glory!
Congratulations to thee.

Dr Maung Maung Nyo
14.2.2008

O Ludu Daw Ahmar (Ode on Her Birthday)

Daw Ahmar is our mother
She has led Burma in journalism and literature
By writing the truth, facts and leaders
To let people adhere to Burmese culture
We’re really grateful to her.

She has been the editor of the “Ludu”
A progressive newspaper for people
From which it took its name
It represented the mass as it claimed
It has enormous fame and authority
It led the people in the struggle for democracy.

I once went to see “Ahmay”
To get permission to use her essay
On leprosy eradication and public health
In the first Branch Medical Faculty magazine Mandalay
She willingly helped, I must say
It was in 1959 early days.

She wrote a book on Burmese dancers
Artistes, musicians, jokers and jugglers
It won a national literary award
It set a standard
She translated work of Maurice Collis
“Sanda Marlar” is her masterpiece
“I appreciate it”, so he speaks.

She also wrote on Burmese culture
“Ahmay Shay Sagar” et cetera
She also writes in current magazines
People held them in high esteem
She is now the doyen of Burmese literature
I wish to draw a caricature.

She was a university boycotter
An avant-garde literary worker
A progressive journalist and author
A dedicated wife, a devout mother and gaily grandma
She is the GOW of Burmese literature
She is the keeper and guardian of Burmese culture.

She is 92 years old today
She looks pale and frail
But, her heart is healthy
Her brain is brainy
Her stamina is steely
She dedicates herself to the people
Let she live to the full
A century of life healthily
Let us pray for her sincerely
“Hooray, Ahmay you are so lovely
May you live long luxuriously?”

Dr Maung Maung Nyo
15.11.2007

At Wollongong

(As part of An Australian Odyssey)


One day, we drove to Wollongong
A small University town as Oxford
Where Yupar and Ei graduated forth
They got credits, distinction and honour both.


Old memories came back vividly
We sent Yupar and Ei timidly
Lest they fell prey to liberality
But they studied seriously and fiercely
They came out nicely and we’re happy.


We went to Nan Ting Buddhist temple
Where Chinese and others assemble
To worship Kwan Yin and Buddha’s resembles
People kowtow, meditate and donate without shamble.


Nan Ting Temple is big and beautiful
Perched on a hillock in full view
Of Wollongong and its environs
One can see far into the horizon.


Then, we drove to Wollongong beach
Where every one tries to reach
To see sea gulls swirling over ships
We watched with wonder and wished
We have a pleasant trip.

We then joined a veterans club
Thronged with military brass
We rubbed shoulders with them en mass
It’s the centre of town or hub.

It was a buffet dinner
After paying some dollar
Eat as you like without hinder
Steak, Satay, Sushi and so many others
English, Japanese, Chinese and Australia’s
We ate all kinds of food to our heart’s desire.

We drove back from Wollongong at night
Speaking, singing and swooning at height
With belly and brain all tight
We might enjoy as we like.

Dr Maung Maung Nyo
8.11.2007

An Australian Odyssey

I always enjoy October
When lanterns are lit in splendor
To celebrate the end of lent in Burma
We pay respects to parents, elders and teachers
They give us good wishes, money and food among others.

I miss this Burmese custom from here
I have not been back for several years
I’m working in Malaysia for my tether
I cannot live on my pension so meager
Our life in Burma has been severe.

Now that our daughters are earning
They sent us air tickets yearning
For us to be coming
We could not avoid their planning
So, we arrived in Sydney one September morning.

It was spring in Australia
Flowers are blooming every where
Food and fruits are aplenty there
We eat. drink and dine where ever
We feel like doing it whenever
It was real pleasure.

One day we went to Canberra
Where Saya Johnny was there
He entertained us to a sumptuous dinner
We ate and bade farewell later
We became greater and heavier
We were full of food and carriers.
I have three packets of poetry for pleasure.

One evening our daughters took us
To dine at a Burmese restaurant near a circus
Rather a place of many people mixed up
Food was genuine Burmese first class
We ate and ate and could not get up!

We flew to Brisbane by Virgin
It was exciting like a pilgrim
Every thing was shining in the sun beam
I thought I was in Pagan region
It was all tropics in the horizon.

We shopped in the DFO store
Where money can buy more
No over charge and every thing sold
At discount prices and factory mould
Every body was in a buying spree, so!

We put up in a motel
It was like a three star hotel
Even a swimming pool was at our disposal
We felt happy and local
We did not feel oriental.

We breakfasted in the motel
Sometimes in the restaurant of locals
Chinese, Kentucky Fried and McDonald
Every thing was special
We ate and felt celestial.

We drove to Gold Coast
Eating on the way chicken roast
Speaking, singing and swinging on toast
We really enjoyed the most
It was really extraordinary hosts.

Warner Brother Movie World is crowded
It is to be lauded
All movie settings are built in replica
It was really a wonder.

We watched Shrek in four D
We could see, hear and feel
Every thing was free
Including the seat, spectacles and scents
It was really time well spent.

We can mix with characters of films
Like Batman, Shrek and Marilyn
There are memorabilia plenty
You can buy or photograph freely
We saw so many people in glee.

Children can ride roller coaster
Train and vertical drop for pleasure
Adults are also allowed every where
It’s your mind that matters
You may be not older than that clatters.

We ate hot dog
We always walk
We have no time to blog
But we talked
We’re a happy lot.

We walked on the Brisbane sand
It was a smooth land
It was a breezy bend
Amenities and food were at hand
Every one became friend.

We went to Burmese monastery
The abbot was giving a sermon for the piety
We joined and donated money
Every body was handy
Dr Thein Htut came and helped me.

Dr Tint Way gave me a dinner
It was in Paramatta clinger
Food was good and winner
It was owned by a Punjabi schemer
It was indeed a Hindu simmer.

I have been to Sydney Opera House
It is Australian singing aloud
It was an icon all Australians are proud
We have been in and out
We can never forget about.

There is also Sydney Harbour Bridge
It can never eclipse
It’s a beauty in sunlit or sun drift
It’s always shining and big
It’s really iconic.

Hay Market and Chinese bazaar
You can walk and wonder
You can buy or meander
No one can be better
It’s really an adventure.

There’s a fish and chip shop
Near our home bus stop
We always sought for a spot
To eat and dine while we talk
It’s really a resort.

When we walked away from it
There are many food shops splendid
Chinese, Indian and Malaysian dishes
Italian, Greek. English and Irish
Oh, I feel always salivating and nostalgic.

Sometimes Nan cooked at leisure
She fried fish and lobsters
Every thing was in order
Every one ate all together
We enjoyed food for ever..

Friends called me on phone
While I was away from home
To invite me to hone
My appetite and to moan Burma
That’s in our heart for ever.

Days went by and month past
We have to fly fast
To reach Kuching where we start
It was a holiday at first
Now it’s an odyssey at long last.

Dr Maung Maung Nyo
6.11.2007

Passing by the "Waste Land" II

Passing by the "Waste Land"(poem)II

Eliot speaks about rats
He depicts them as pets
He must be fond of rats
Otherwise he might not have chatted.

" A rat crept softly through the vegetation
Dragging its slimy belly on the bank
While I was fishing in the dull canal
On a winter evening round behind the gashouse…"
"Rattled by the rat's foot only, year to year
But from my back from time to time I hear " etc.

I have read about rats in poetry
The best in the "Piped Piper of Hamelin"
In order that people could stay in health and harmony
The piper led rats to death and destruction

I heard about some rats
Running away from a sinking ship wreck
To reach a safe haven or nest
Forgetting all they have left.

Over times some rats become heavier
Some become wealthier
Some may have power here and there
But still, rats are rats for ever.

Can a land be free of rat?
It's a necessary pest
It has survived millions of years
It may still do so in the future.

Dr Maung Maung Nyo
Original 10.9.2007