Yu-Han Chao and three poems
Yu-Han Chao is a poet and fiction writer born and raised in Taipei, Taiwan. She received a BA from National Taiwan University and an MFA from Penn State University, later trained in nursing, and has worked as both a writer and registered nurse. Her books include the poetry collection We Grow Old, the story collection Sex & Taipei City, and a series of poetry chapbooks and hybrid works.
Issue 39 preserves three compact poems whose gaze moves through bodies, clothing, display, fashion, visual framing, and mediated intimacy. “Cat Torso” builds a body from angular details and social gesture; “The Eye of the Poem” turns the nipple into a focal point and visual argument; “Webcam” moves from an imperfect old image toward a modern nymph drying her hair before a camera.
Cat Torso
Cat torso, jeweled tail. No longer fashionable to show
significant portion of high thong under low jeans while sitting
on bar stool, leaning on elbows and arching back to show more.
Curve of ear accentuated by wave of hair,
accentuating hang of boob contrasting with
flatness of midriff.
The Eye of the Poem
One last peek at the bold nipple breaking through
fabric, societal constraints, standard sizes,
flower-shaped cover-ups. The most successful focal point
of all. The eye of the poem.
Webcam
Old picture. Colors off. Cross-eyed nipples and tits.
Usually the owner becomes extremely offended
upon being asked the question, “Are/Is…cross-eyed?”
Angle with water pitcher pouring century-old water
on head of modern nymph, hair air-drying
in front of webcam.
Books and later work
Poets & Writers documents Chao’s poetry and fiction, education, and publications. Her author biography records her work in writing, teaching, and nursing, while Blood Tree Literature lists later books and hybrid projects.