I Dreamed a Dream || BTS

A Poem for the Four Courts

The tranquility of water as it trickles through a stream

The sun's rays shimmering, setting the river agleam

But peace can swiftly transform to discord, repose to turbulence

Water tumbling from a cliff face, frothy waves clashing upon the rocks with mercilessness

Dearest water, may you never lose your serenity nor your inclemency.

The stability of earth as travelers traverse a winding path across a field

Flowers blossom from the soil, towering crops act as its shield

It can provide obstacles – jagged rocks marring a mountainous plateau

But lo! Look beyond to the snowy peaks painting the clouds, the forest greenery, life's meadow

Beloved earth, may you never cease to bloom with life each spring.

The blazing zeal of fire as it illuminates the dimmest night

Its shades of sunset, dew-glistening sunflowers, a cerulean sky shining bright

Fire provides warmth, whether a flickering spark or a ravishing wildfire that sets the world ablaze

Its dangers are its beauties; its beauties are its dangers – with this, it never ceases to amaze

Lovely fire, may you never find your ardor dampened to ashes.

The fickleness of air as it chooses where to blow

Perhaps west, to tickle the leaves upon the trees; perhaps east, to ripple the river's flow

Perhaps a gentle breeze, tranquilly fluttering the hair lain upon one's forehead

Perhaps a powerful gust that worsens a brewing storm, festering the torrents of rain overhead

Beautiful air, may you never remain constant nor predictable.

A forewarning for the entanglement of elements:

May air and water anticipate pain

For air's fickleness could transform a tranquil rippling of ocean waves into a hurricane.

May earth recognize fire's interest as a ploy

For what earth has created, unhinged fire may seek to destroy.

And finally, may fire and air never entangle

For their amalgamation will only intensify fire's rage, and air will be forever tainted as smoke.