This poem was inspired by a visit to the Old Summer Palace (Yuan Ming Yuan) in Beijing, China, and researching the history regarding the burning down of this beautiful palace in 1860.
Burning Yuan Ming Yuan October 1860
by Joshua, 10, NSW
Yuan Ming Yuan photo of Chinese ruins courtesy Joshua
Yuan Ming Yuan photo of Chinese ruins courtesy Joshua
Flames of fire roaring high,
Reaching up to the sky.
Beautiful gardens,
Now all in ruins.
Everything burning.
I am watching.
Something lovely,
Now all history.
Standing there
Just there.
Everything burning.
I am watching.
Locals help,
They don’t yelp.
All ashes,
Many smashes.
Everything burning.
Sadly watching.
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