The book from which this poem is taken is called Love Poem, and contains a biography of the author, as well as many other powerful poems. Music has always been important in Vietnamese culture. Traditional music dates back to the Bronze Age when different wind and percussion instruments were played. Some genres of Vietnamese music are over 100 years old and include traditional songs, instrumental music for entertainment, theatre forms, ritual music, Buddhist chants, and dance forms. Texts often reflect traditional occupations such as farming and fishing, and the environment of Vietnam.
Dancers often perform while musical instruments are played.
During the time of Chinese colonization, Chinese music influenced and changed the music of Vietnam. In the 15th century, tradition called for different categories of music to be played at certain religious and social occasions. Plays and water puppets usually accompanied the orchestra. Traditional music of Vietnam is greatly influenced by the nature of the Vietnamese language. Instruments are generally reserved for special occasions.