Thai poetry has a rich history dating back to the Sukhothai Kingdom (1238–1438), where early poetic forms like “Lilit” (ลิลิต) and “Chan” (ฉันท์) were first used, and the Ayutthaya period (1351–1767), when Thai poetry flourished with court poets composing works in sophisticated meters, such as “Khlong” (โคลง) and “Kap” (กาพย์).
However, there hasn’t been much in the way of poetry in the English language written about Thailand — whether it be from Thai poets or foreign writers living in the kingdom. A couple notable exceptions include “In Thailand It is Night,” a book of Thai poetry in English written by the American poet Ira Sukurungruang, who was born in Chicago from Thai immigrants, and Denise Low’s “Thailand Journal,” a book poems inspired by the former Kansas Poet Laureate’s trip to Thailand.
Ysaan Books has filled in this gap with its recent publication of “Poems from Sakon Nakhon” (Thai Poetry in English), by Ajarn David, now available in paperback and hardcover internationally via Amazon.
A special edition with handwoven indigo cloth cover is sold within Thailand at the publisher’s Shopee Store and Lazada Store.
Poems from Sakon Nakhon is not just a collection of Thai poems; it’s an experience, a bridge between cultures, and a reflection on universal truths. This bilingual collection, presented in English and Thai (including transliterations), offers readers a rare opportunity to explore Thailand’s northeastern Isaan region through a deeply personal and poetic lens.
Ajarn David, a long-term expatriate in Thailand and the first to publish a Thai-English bilingual poetry book, shares his unique perspective on life in Sakon Nakhon and the culture of Northeastern Thailand. The result is a work that is as accessible as it is profound, weaving together themes of nature, spirituality, humor, and cultural insight.
More Than a Setting: Sakon Nakhon as a Character
Sakon Nakhon, a province often overlooked by tourists, becomes a living, breathing character in this collection. Through vivid imagery, the region’s landscapes and rhythms are brought to life. The book captures the cycles of nature and human resilience, portraying a world where rice paddies, monsoons, and quiet temples shape the daily lives of its people.
A Portrait of Thai Culture
From early morning markets to the rituals of temple life, the book is rich with cultural snapshots that convey the essence of Thai society. Moments of devotion, community celebrations, and reflections on Thai traditions offer readers a glimpse into the interconnectedness of life in Isaan.
The Harmony of Opposites
One of the most striking aspects of the book of Thai poetry in English is its exploration of balance — between humor and solemnity, simplicity and complexity, the individual and the collective. The Thai poems celebrate the ability to find beauty and meaning in the everyday, from the quirks of street food culture to moments of quiet reflection.
Cultural and Linguistic Connection
The bilingual format is more than a novelty — it’s an invitation to engage deeply with Thai culture. English readers can explore the nuances of the Thai language, while Thai readers can see their culture represented authentically. For language learners, the dual-language approach provides an engaging way to study both vocabulary and cultural context.
A Spiritual Undertone That Resonates
Thai Buddhism is intricately woven into the collection, offering insights into themes of mindfulness, gratitude, and compassion. Rituals and practices are presented in ways that are relatable and universal, emphasizing their spiritual significance while inviting readers to reflect on their own lives.
The poems explore ideas such as humility, interconnectedness, and the transient nature of life. These reflections go beyond cultural boundaries, resonating with anyone interested in spiritual growth or mindfulness.
Travelers and Dreamers
If you’ve ever visited Thailand — or dreamed of it — this book of Thai poems will deepen your appreciation for the country’s culture and landscapes. It’s the perfect companion for those seeking to connect with the “real” Thailand beyond the tourist spots.
Poetry Lovers
Whether you’re a seasoned poetry reader or someone new to the genre, Poems from Sakon Nakhon offers accessible, evocative writing that appeals to both casual and literary readers.
Language Enthusiasts
The bilingual presentation (with English transliteration of the Thai language poems) makes this book a treasure for those learning Thai or English. Each poem provides context, vocabulary, and cultural insight in a way that textbooks cannot.
Spiritual Seekers
If you’re drawn to mindfulness, meditation, or exploring spiritual traditions, this book of poems provides gentle, poetic reflections that resonate across cultures.
A Bridge Between Cultures
This is more than a collection of poems; it’s an opportunity to step into a culture rich with wisdom, warmth, and beauty.
A Visual and Linguistic Experience
With its side-by-side translations, vivid imagery, and thoughtful design, Poems from Sakon Nakhon is a joy to read and explore.
A Gift That Speaks Volumes
Looking for the perfect gift for a traveler, student, or cultural enthusiast? This book is as thoughtful as it is unique.
“It’s like being guided through Thailand by someone who truly understands and loves it.”
“The bilingual format is genius. I’ve learned so much about Thai language and culture while enjoying beautiful poetry.”
“This book feels like meditation in literary form — calm, reflective, and deeply moving.”
Poems from Sakon Nakhon (Thai Poetry in English) is not just a book; it’s a journey. It’s a conversation between cultures, a meditation on life, and a celebration of beauty in its many forms. Whether you’re looking to connect with Thailand, learn something new, or simply enjoy well-crafted poetry, this collection has something for you.
Order your copy today and experience the world of Poems from Sakon Nakhon for yourself.
One of the most compelling aspects of Poems from Sakon Nakhon is its bilingual presentation. Each of the 91 English poems is paired with a Thai translation, inviting both Thai and non-Thai readers to engage with the text. The translations are not merely literal but convey the tone and rhythm of the originals, a feat that demonstrates Ajarn David’s deep engagement with Thai language and culture.
For Thai readers, the Thai text adds authenticity and resonance, while English readers are offered an interpretive bridge into the nuances of Thai life and thought. English transliterations of the Thai poems are also included, allowing foreigners who cannot read Thai a glimpse into the musicality and beauty of the Thai language.
Read More at: Thai Poetry Book Review
If you’ve ever wanted to understand Thailand beyond its postcard-perfect beaches and vibrant street food scenes, Poems from Sakon Nakhon by Ajarn David is your passport to the soul of the country. This bilingual collection of Thai poetry in English provides an intimate lens into the rhythms of rural life, Buddhist philosophy, and cultural values that shape the Thai experience.
Written in both English and Thai by an American expat who has lived in Thailand for 20+ years, the book is as much a cultural guide as it is a literary work, inviting readers to learn not just about Thailand but to feel it.
Read More at: Learn Thai Culture with Poetry
In order to help Thai students who would like to write contemporary Thai poetry in English, and to better understand the literary devices used in contemporary Western poetry, below is a literary analysis of “Poems from Sakon Nakhon”.
Summary & Literary Analysis
“Poems from Sakon Nakhon” is a collection that beautifully captures the essence of life in Sakon Nakhon, a province in northeastern Thailand. Through free verse, the poems explore themes of nature, spirituality, cultural traditions, and the rhythm of daily life.
Poetic Style
The collection predominantly employs free verse, allowing for a flexible and natural expression of thoughts and imagery. This form mirrors the organic and unstructured beauty of the Isaan region, providing the poet with the freedom to explore diverse themes and emotions without being confined by a specific meter or rhyme scheme.
Literary Devices
Imagery: Vivid and evocative imagery is a hallmark of the collection, painting detailed pictures of Thailand’s landscapes, people, and cultural practices. The poems describe the transformation of the environment with phrases like “soil turns to sand” and “lush rice fields carpeting the earth.” Natural elements are depicted with clarity, such as “beads of water like discarded thoughts” and “butterflies drinking from puddles.”
Repetition and Anaphora: Repetition is effectively used to emphasize key themes and create rhythmic patterns. The phrase “a time” is repeated in the Thai poem about the hot season, underscoring different aspects of this period. Similarly, anaphora in phrases like “from” in the poem about Thailand’s lessons enhances the lyrical quality and thematic focus.
Juxtaposition: The poems frequently juxtapose contrasting elements, highlighting the balance and interconnectedness of life. For example, the harshness of the Thai hot season is contrasted with soothing activities, and the peacefulness of nature is juxtaposed with human struggles.
Symbolism: Natural and cultural elements are rich with symbolism. The rainy season symbolizes renewal and unexpected love, while the concept of “greng-jai” represents deep respect and consideration for others. Symbols like the hermit monk reflect inner desires for solitude and spiritual exploration in Thailand.
Personification: Nature and spiritual figures are often personified, adding a dynamic quality to the poems. Religious figures stir souls and reflect internal conflicts and desires.
Sound Devices: Alliteration, consonance, and assonance are subtly used to enhance the musicality of these Thailand poems. Internal and slant rhymes create gentle harmony, contributing to the overall rhythm and flow without dominating the free verse structure.
Cultural Reflections: The poems reflect Thai cultural values and practices, such as the importance of “greng-jai” (consideration), “mee nam-jai” (generosity), and “Khao Phansa” (the rains retreat). They also explore cultural contrasts, like differing perceptions of seriousness in the West and Thailand.
Themes and Messages
Nature and Change: The collection deeply explores nature’s cycles and their impact on life. The Thai rainy season brings renewal and love, while the hot season calls for rest and reflection. After the rain, nature’s delicate changes symbolize transient thoughts and emotions.
Spirituality and Reflection: Spirituality is a recurring theme, with poems highlighting the search for enlightenment, the significance of ancient ruins, and the practice of daily contemplation. Concepts from Thai Buddhism, such as the noble truths and the eightfold path, are explored with a focus on their practical applications.
Interconnectedness of Life: The poems emphasize the interconnectedness of various aspects of life, from the natural environment to human emotions and cultural practices. They explore how these elements coexist and influence each other, illustrating the complex tapestry of life in Sakon Nakhon.
Emotional Nuances: The collection touches on the emotional nuances of life by exploring Thai language and culture, such as the transient nature of love (“roo-seuk ruk”), the significance of saving face (“sia naa”), and the sadness of unfulfilled inner desires (the hermit monk).