Dearly dearest
joyous sadness
The song returned again and again, across decades, one version in bliss, one version grieving, and which was more popular?
So what if it is sung Mandarin Chinese, not from mainland China or islands Taiwan / Hong Kong,
but in diverse tiny Singapore? The human emotions are universal.
“Let write your name upon the heavens
Aromatic across the seasons
As it drifts into my dreams
Nightly I whisper my longing thoughts of thee
.
“Ask not which quarter I think of you
How can I settle my thoughts and feelings thus?
Such cloying beauty in my memories do not bleed away
.
“Dearly dearest
Missing you ever in mind
Why is loving you not being me?
.
“Place your smiles at hand
Fragrances year long
Forever not lost”
The words are beautiful and haunting. Might I ask, Alan, does this song have a special significance to you? When I hear certain songs that were popular during significant events in my life, they evoke strong emotions. I am almost transported back in time, remembering exactly where I was and what I was doing. Is it the same for you?