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English Translation of 310 Song Poems by Betty Tseng 2011 11 First Edition PDF
English Translation of 310 Song Poems by Betty Tseng 2011 11 First Edition PDF
/ Translated by :
2011.11
First Edition
Preface
Following the completion of English Translation of 310 Song Poems, I continued with this pursuit by
translating an anthology of Song poems.
Similarly, English Translation of 310 Song Poems is the result of an avocation, the translation into English
and its editing are after all limited by my abilities. Although I endeavour to provide regular revisions and
to strive for an outcome without errors, there remains fear that inevitable are imperfection and
shortcomings, I therefore sincerely wish for readers' magnanimous tolerance.
2011.02 ~ 2011.09
Completed a first draft of English Translation of 310 Song Poems.
2011.10 ~ 2011.11
2011.11
Completed the first edit of English Translation of 310 Song Poems and provided online as
the 2011.11 First Edition.
Key Reference
2010 1
Licence
Places of Download
Google Sites 28 projects
URL: https://sites.google.com/site/28utscprojects/song310
28 / 28utsc on Scribd
URL: http://www.scribd.com/28utsc/info
28utsc__
URL: http://wenku.baidu.com/album/view/67e8a45177232f60ddcca184
Opera Community 28
URL: http://my.opera.com/transient/blog/song320
URL: http://my.opera.com/transient/links/
Table of Contents
.
Preface 2
.
Translation and Editing History 3
.
Key Reference 4
.
Licence 4
.
Table of Contents 5
.
001 - 25
001 QIAN Weiyan Magnolia Lyrics
002 - 25
002 FAN Zhongyan Lyrics to Sumuzhe
003 - 26
003 FAN Zhongyan Lyrics to Fishermen's Melody
004 - 26
004 FAN Zhongyan Lyrics to the Imperial Drive Melody
005 - 27
005 ZHANG Xian Millennium Lyrics
006 - 27
006 ZHANG Xian Lyrics to the Bodhisattva Melody
007 - 28
007 ZHANG Xian Lyrics to a Tippler's Drooping Whip
008 - 28
008 ZHANG Xian Lyrics to a Thicket of Flowers
009 - 29
009 ZHANG Xian Lyrics to the Melody of a Heavenly Fairy (I was a magistrate in Jiahe at
the time, sick I was and thus unable to attend a government banquet. )
010 - 29
010 ZHANG Xian Lyrics to Blue Gate Prelude
011 - 30
011 ZHANG Xian Lyrics to the Raw Haws Melody
012 - 30
012 YAN Shu Lyrics to the Melody of Sandy Creek Washers
013 - 31
013 YAN Shu Lyrics to the Melody of Sandy Creek Washers
014 - 31
014 YAN Shu Lyrics to the Joy of Peace and Tranquillity
015 - 32
015 YAN Shu Lyrics to the Joy of Peace and Tranquillity
016 - 32
016 YAN Shu Magnolia Lyrics
017 - 33
017 YAN Shu Magnolia Lyrics
018 - 33
018 YAN Shu Magnolia Lyrics
019 - 34
019 YAN Shu Lyrics to the Melody of Walking on Grass
020 - 34
020 YAN Shu Lyrics to the Melody of Walking on Grass
021 - 35
021 YAN Shu Lyrics to a Melody of Walking on Grass
022 - 35
022 YAN Shu Lyrics to the Melody of Butterflies Chasing Flowers
023 - 36
023 HAN Zhen Pheonix Flute Chant
024 - 36
024 SONG Qi Magnolia Lyrics
025 - 37
025 OUYANG Xiu Lyrics to Mulberry Pickers
026 - 37
026 OUYANG Xiu A Recital of a True Heart
027 - 38
027 OUYANG Xiu Lyrics to the Melody of Walking on Grass
028 - 38
028 OUYANG Xiu Lyrics to the Melody of Butterflies Chasing Flowers
029 - 39
029 OUYANG Xiu Lyrics to the Melody of Butterflies Chasing Flowers
030 - 39
030 OUYANG Xiu Lyrics to the Melody of Butterflies Chasing Flowers
031 - 40
031 OUYANG Xiu Magnolia Lyrics
032 - 40
032 OUYANG Xiu Lyrics to the Linjiang Narcissi
033 - 41
033 OUYANG Xiu Lyrics to Sandy Creek Washers
034 - 41
034 OUYANG Xiu Lyrics to the Melody of Waves Dredging Sand
035 - 42
035 OUYANG Xiu Lyrics to the Melody of Green Jadeite Bowl
036 - () 43
036 NIE Guangqing Lyrics to Many Beauties (Ode to Li's banquet)
037 - 44
037 LIU Yong Lyrics to Jade Flute Tune
038 - 45
038 LIU Yong Lyrics to Tinkling Heavy Rain
039 - 45
039 LIU Yong Lyrics to the Melody of Butterflies Chasing Flowers
040 - 46
040 LIU Yong Lyrics to the Melody of Lotus Picking
041 - 47
041 LIU Yong Lyrics to the Adagio of Waves Dredging Sand
042 - 48
042 LIU Yong Lyrics to the Adagio of Pacified Storm
043 - 48
043 LIU Yong Lyrics to the Melody of Youthful Rambles
044 - 49
044 LIU Yong Lyrics to Lady Qi's Song
045 - 50
045 LIU Yong Lyrics to the Melody of Midnight Joy
046 - 51
046 LIU Yong Lyrics to the Melody of Green Butterflies
047 - 52
047 LIU Yong Lyrics to the Ganzhou Melody of Eight Rhymes
048 - 53
048 LIU Yong Lyrics to the Prelude of Infatuation
049 - 54
049 LIU Yong Lyrics to the Melody of Bamboo Horses
050 - 55
050 LIU Yong Lyrics to the Adagio of Linjiang Narcissi
051 - 56
051 WANG Anshi Lyrics to the Fragrance of Cinnamon Twigs
052 - 57
052 WANG Anshi Lyrics to the Millennium Prelude
053 - 57
053 WANG Anguo Lyrics to the Joy of Peace and Tranquillity
054 - 58
054 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Linjiang Narcissi
055 - 58
055 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Melody of Butterfles Chasing Flowers
056 - 59
056 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Melody of Butterfles Chasing Flowers
057 - 59
057 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Melody of a Partridge-filled Sky
058 - 60
058 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Melody of a Partridge-filled Sky
059 - 60
059 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Raw Haws Melody
060 - 61
060 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Raw Haws Melody
061 - 61
061 YAN Jidao Magnolia Lyrics
062 - 62
062 YAN Jidao Magnolia Lyrics
063 - 62
063 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Joy of Peace and Tranquillity
064 - 63
064 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Melody of When Returns Mr Ruan
065 - 63
065 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Melody of When Returns Mr Ruan
066 - 64
066 YAN Jidao Lyrics to a Six-beat Chant
067 - 65
067 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Imperial Drive Melody
068 - 65
068 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Melody Dedicated to Lady Yu
069 - 66
069 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Spring-retaining Chant
070 - 66
070 YAN Jidao Lyrics to Pining for the Distant Traveller
071 - 67
071 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Melody of a Garden Full of Blossoms
072 - 68
072 SU Shi Lyrics to the First Water Melody (On the night of the Mid Autumn Festival in
the year of Bingchen, we drank at liberty till morn leading me to write this as I also
thought of Ziyou.)
073 - 69
073 SU Shi Lyrics to the Water Dragon Chant (Following Zhang Zhifu's verse on willow
catkins)
074 - 70
074 SU Shi Lyrics to Remembering Your Charm (Remembrance of the Tale of the Crimson
Cliff)
075 - 71
075 SU Shi Lyrics to the Melody of Forever in Happiness (I stayed overnight at the
Swallows House in the town of Peng and dreamt of the legendary Panpan, and wrote the
following verse.)
076 - 72
076 SU Shi Lyrics to the Melody of an Immortal Who Lived in a Cave
077 - 72
077 SU Shi Lyrics to the Melody of Divining Numbers (written when residing at the
Dinghui Court in Huangzhou)
078 - 73
078 SU Shi Lyrics to the Melody of Green Jadeite Bowl (Farewells to Bogu's return to the
Wu region, in accordance with He Fanghui's rhyme)
079 - 73
079 SU Shi Lyrics to the Linjiang Narcissi
080 - 74
080 SU Shi Lyrics to the Melody of a Pacified Storm
081 - 75
081 SU Shi Lyrics to the Melody of a River Town (A record of a dream on the night of the
twentieth of January, in the year of Yimao)
082 - 75
082 SU Shi Magnolia Lyrics (Following Ouyang's West Lake rhyme)
083 - 76
083 SU Shi Lyrics to the Melody of Congratulations to the Groom
084 - 77
084 HUANG Tingjian Lyrics to the Melody of a Pacified Storm
085 - 77
085 HUANG Tingjian Lyrics to the Melody of a Partridge-filled Sky (Of those seated,
there was the hermit of Mount Mei, Shi Yingzhi, who offered a prelude, and I responded
with this.)
086 - 78
086 QIN Guan Lyrics to Gazing at the Tide of the Sea
087 - 79
087 QIN Guan Lyrics to the Melody of Eight and Six
088 - 80
088 QIN Guan Lyrics to the Melody of a Garden Full of Blossoms
089 - 81
089 QIN Guan Lyrics to the Melody of a Garden Full of Blossoms
090 - 81
090 QIN Guan Lyrics to the Melody of Walking on Grass
091 - 82
091 QIN Guan - Lyrics to the Melody of a Partridge-filled Sky
092 - 82
092 QIN Guan Magnolia Lyrics with reduced words
093 - 83
093 QIN Guan Lyrics to the Melody of Sandy Creek Washers
094 - 83
094 QIN Guan Lyrics to the Melody of When Returns Mr Ruan
095 - 84
095 CHAO Yuanli Lyrics to the Melody of Green-head Ducks
096 - 85
096 ZHAO Lingzhi Lyrics to the Melody of Butterflies Chasing Flowers
097 - 85
097 ZHAO Lingzhi Lyrics to the Melody of Butterflies Chasing Flowers
098 - 86
098 ZHAO Lingzhi Lyrics to the Joy of Peace and Tranquillity
099 - 86
099 ZHANG Lei Lyrics to the Melody of a Romantic
100 - 87
100 CHAO Buzhi Lyrics to the Water Dragon Chant (In rhyme with Lin Shengzi's
Cherishing Spring)
101 - 88
101 CHAO Buzhi Lyrics to the Salt Wrapper Melody (Plum blossom viewing at the Bo
Shrine)
102 - 88
102 CHAO Buzhi Lyrics to the Melody of the Remembrance of a Youth (Farewells to the
town of Li)
103 - 89
103 CHAO Buzhi Lyrics to the Melody of an Immortal Who Lived in a Cave (written on
the day of Mid-Autumn Festival in Sizhou)
104 - 89
104 CHAO Chongzhi Lyrics to the Linjiang Narcissi
105 - 90
105 SHU Dan Lyrics to the Melody Dedicated to Lady Yu
106 - 90
106 ZHU Fu Lyrics to a Fishermen's Melody
107 - 91
107 MAO Pang Lyrics to the Melody Sympathising Those Who Have Drifted Apart
(Farewells to a coutesan named Qiongfang composed in a Buddhist cottage in Fuyang)
108 - 91
108 CHEN Ke Lyrics to the Bodhisattva Melody
109 - 92
109 CHEN Ke Lyrics to the Bodhisattva Melody
110 - () 92
110 LI Yuanying Lyrics to the Melody of an Immortal Who Lived in a Cave (Prologue
omitted)
111 - 93
111 SHI Yan Lyrics to the Blue Gate Toast
112 - 94
112 LI Zhiyi Lyrics to an Adagio of a Pond of Withered Spring
113 - 95
113 LI Zhiyi Lyrics to the Melody of Divining Numbers
114 - 96
114 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Chant of an Auspicious Dragon
115 - 97
115 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of a Romantic
116 - 98
116 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Duke of Lanling Melody
117 - 99
117 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of an Inlaid Window in the Cold
118 - 100
118 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of Six Failings (Written after the roses have
wilted)
119 - 101
119 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of Night-flying Cuckoo
120 - 102
120 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of a Garden Full of Blossoms (Written on a
summer day on Mount Wishless by the Li River)
121 - 103
121 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of Passing By Houses of Coutesans
122 - 104
122 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of Overflowing Blossoms
123 - 105
123 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of Great Gulps
124 - 106
124 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of a Lady Confidant (On the year's first full
moon)
125 - 107
125 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of a Pacified Storm
126 - 107
126 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of Butterflies Chasing Flowers
127 - 108
127 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Resolution of Connected Rings
128 - 109
128 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Adagio of Worshipping Stars and the Moon (Autumnal
thoughts)
129 - 110
129 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to a Border River Chant
130 - 111
130 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Lament of Those Behind Adorned Windows
131 - 112
131 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of Weichi's Chalice
132 - 113
132 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of the West River (In remembrance of bygone
eras at Jinling)
133 - 114
133 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of an Auspicious Crane-riding Immortal
134 - 115
134 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Adagio of Waves Dredging Sand
135 - 116
135 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of Forever Should Exist Heaven
136 - 117
136 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of Sauntering in the Palace at Night
137 - 117
137 HE Zhu Lyrics to the Melody of Green Jadeite Bowl
138 - 118
138 HE Zhu Lyrics to Melody of the Night Watcher
139 - 118
139 HE Zhu Lyrics to the Melody of Obliged to the Imperial Grace
140 - 119
140 HE Zhu Lyrics to the Cold-hearted
141 - 120
141 HE Zhu Lyrics to Sandy Creek Washers
142 - 120
142 HE Zhu Lyrics to Sandy Creek Washers
143 - 121
143 HE Zhu Lyrics to the Adagio of the Stony State
144 - 121
144 HE Zhu Lyrics to the Melody of Butterflies Chasing Flowers
145 - 122
145 HE Zhu The Heavenly Gate Ballad (On the Emei Pavilion of the Rocky Isle)
146 - 122
146 HE Zhu Lyrics to the Melody of a Heavenly Aroma
147 - 123
147 HE Zhu Lyrics to the Melody of the Xiang Gazer (Spring thoughts)
148 - 124
148 HE Zhu Lyrics to the Melody of Green-head Ducks
149 - 125
149 ZHANG Yuangan Lyrics to the Adagio of the Stony State
150 - 126
150 ZHANG Yuangan Lyrics to the Duke of Lanling Melody
151 - 127
151 YE Mengde Lyrics to the Melody of Congratulations to the Groom
152 - 128
152 YE Mengde Lyrics to the Melody Dedicated to Lady Yu (Composed when drinking
with Gan Yu and Cai Qing under an apple tree)
153 - 128
153 WANG Zao Lyrics to the Melody of Touching Up Rouged Lips
154 - 129
154 LIU Yizhi Lyrics to the Joy of Seeing Migrating Orioles (On the road at dawn)
155 - 130
155 ZHAO Ji Lyrics to the Melody of a Pavilion in the Yan Mountains (Upon seeing
apricot blossoms when heading north)
156 - 131
156 HAN Liu Lyrics to the Melody of the Terrace of the Zenithal Sun (On New Year's eve)
157 - 132
157 LI Bing Lyrics to the Han Palace's Spring Melody
158 - 133
158 CHEN Yuyi - Lyrics to the Linjiang Narcissi
159 - 133
159 CHEN Yuyi Lyrics to the Linjiang Narcissi (A night visit to a small pavilion
reminiscing times spent in the Luo region)
160 - 134
160 CAI Shen Lyrics to the Su Wu Adagio
161 - 135
161 CAI Shen Lyrics to the Melody of Green Willow Sprigs
162 - 135
162 ZHOU Zizhi Lyrics to the Melody of a Partridge-filled Sky
163 - 136
163 ZHOU Zizhi Lyrics to the Melody of Walking on Grass
164 - 137
164 LI Jia Lyrics to Spring of the Royal Terrace
165 - 137
165 LI Jia Lyrics to Thinking of an Aristocrat
166 - 138
166 WANQI (MUQI) Yong Lyrics to the Three Terraces (Composed officially for the day
of Spring Equinox)
167 - 139
167 XU Shen Lyrics to the Melody of a Young Pagan God
168 - 140
168 TIAN Wei Lyrics to the Adagio of the River God
169 - 141
169 CAO Zu Lyrics to the Melody of the Mount Mo Creek (On plum blossoms)
170 - 142
170 LI Yu Lyrics to the Melody of Congratulations to the Groom
171 - 143
171 LIAO Shimei Lyrics to the Swaying Red of a Candle Flame (An inscription for the
House of Floating Clouds in Anlu County)
172 - 144
172 L Binlao Lyrics to the Cold-hearted
173 - 145
173 CHA Chi Lyrics to the Melody of Beyond Blue Skies
174 - 146
174 KONG Yi Lyrics to the Melody of Southern Waters
175 - 147
175 YUE Fei Lyrics to the Melody of a River of Blossoms
176 - 148
176 ZHANG Lun Lyrics to the Swaying Red of a Candle Flame (Yearning under the first
moon of the year)
177 - 149
177 CHENG Gai Lyrics to the Water Dragon Chant
178 - 150
178 ZHANG Xiaoxiang Lyrics to the First Melody of the Western Six States
179 - 151
179 ZHANG Xiaoxiang Lyrics to Remembering Your Charm
180 - 152
180 HAN Yuanji Lyrics to the First Melody of the Western Six States (On peach blossoms)
181 - 153
181 HAN Yuanji Lyrics to the Melody of an Approaching Joyous Event
182 - 154
182 YUAN Quhua Lyrics to the Melody of an Auspicious Crane-riding Immortal
183 - 155
183 YUAN Quhua Lyrics to the Melody of the Sword Approaches
184 - 156
184 YUAN Quhua Lyrics to the Melody of Young Master An
185 - 157
185 LU Song Lyrics to the Melody of an Auspicious Crane-riding Immortal
186 - 158
186 LU Song Lyrics to the Melody of Divining Numbers (Singing praises of plum
blossoms)
187 - 158
187 LU You Lyrics to a Fishermen's Melody (Addressed to Zhonggao)
188 - 159
188 CHEN Liang Lyrics to the Water Dragon Chant
189 - 160
189 FAN Chengda Lyrics to Thinking of a Young Lady of Qin
190 - 161
190 FAN Chengda Lyrics to the Melody of Enchanting Eyes (Along the way to the
Duckweed County, suddenly the day turns clear, lying in the carriage I was, rather
sleepy I was, so I stopped briefly by some willows next to a pond.)
191 - 162
191 FAN Chengda Lyrics to the Melody of a Frosty Sky at the Crack of Dawn
192 - 162
192 CAI Youxue - Lyrics to the Melody of an Approaching Joyous Event
193 - 163
193 XIN Qiji Lyrics to the Melody of Congratulations to the Groom (Farewells to younger
brother Maojia who ranked twelfth)
194 - 164
194 XIN Qiji Lyrics to the Melody of Congratulations to the Groom (An ode to pipa)
195 - 165
195 XIN Qiji Lyrics to Remembering Your Charm (An inscription for a village wall in the
County of Eastward Flow)
196 - 166
196 XIN Qiji Lyrics to the Melody of Spring in the Han Palace (On the first day of spring)
197 - 167
197 XIN Qiji Lyrics to the Water Dragon Chant (On mounting the Pavilion of Delight in
Jiankang)
198 - 168
198 XIN Qiji Lyrics to the Melody of Fishing with Bare Hands (In the Jihai year of Chunxi
I am to travel from Hubei to Hunan by water, on a pavilion on a hill in the company of
Officer Wang Zhengzhi I this compose.)
199 - 169
199 XIN Qiji Lyrics to the Melody of Forever in Happiness (Reminiscing the bygone days
on the Beigu Pavilion at the capital's entrance)
200 - 170
200 XIN Qiji Lyrics to the Magnolia Adagio (On seeing off Fan Cui in Chuzhou)
201 - 171
201 XIN Qiji Lyrics to the Melody of By the Honourable Terrace of The Zhus (In late
spring)
202 - 171
202 XIN Qiji Lyrics to the Melody of Green Jadeite Bowl (On the first night of a new
year)
203 - 172
203 XIN Qiji Lyrics to the Melody of a Partridge-filled Sky (Written by the Lake of Geese
after recovering from an illness)
204 - 172
204 XIN Qiji Lyrics to the Bodhisattva Melody (Written by the Jagged Cliff in Jiangxi)
205 - 173
205 JIANG Kui - Lyrics to the Melody of Touching Up Rouged Lips (Written in the summer
of the year of Dingwei when passing through Wusong)
206 - 173
206 JIANG Kui - Lyrics to the Melody of a Partridge-filled Sky (I dreamt of something on
the first night of a new year.)
207 - 174
207 JIANG Kui Lyrics to the Melody of Walking on Grass (I've come eastwards from
Mian. I arrived in Jingling on the first day of Dingwei, I had a dream on the river and
thus I this wrote.)
208 - 175
208 JIANG Kui Lyrics to the Melody of Celebrating Palatial Spring (Prologue omitted)
209 - 176
209 JIANG Kui Lyrics to the Melody of Heavenly Joy (Prologue omitted)
210 - 177
210 JIANG Kui Lyrics to the Melody of a Celestial Pipa Player (Prologue omitted)
211 - 178
211 JIANG Kui Lyrics to the Melody of Eight Stops (On seeing off Hu Dehua in the
central Xiang)
212 - 179
212 JIANG Kui Lyrics to Remembering Your Charm (Prologue omitted)
213 - 180
213 JIANG Kui The Yangzhou Adagio (Prologue omitted)
214 - 181
214 JIANG Kui The Adagio of Lamenting Along a Gallery (Prologue omitted)
215 - 182
215 JIANG Kui Pale and Yellowing Willows (Prologue omitted)
216 - 183
216 JIANG Kui Lyrics to the Melody of an Obscure Scent (Prologue omitted)
217 - 184
217 JIANG Kui Lyrics to the Melody of Scattered Light and Shade
218 - 185
218 JIANG Kui A Recital of the Magnificent Edifice (Prologue omitted)
219 - 186
219 JIANG Kui Lyrics to the Melody of Sky-shading Apricot Blossoms (Prologue omitted)
220 - 187
220 JIANG KUI Lyrics to the Melody of a Red Corolla (Prologue omitted)
221 - 188
221 JIANG Kui Interlude No. One to the Rainbow Robe Melody (Prologue omitted)
222 - 189
222 ZHANG Liangneng Lyrics to the Melody of Overlapping Hills
223 - 189
223 LIU Guo Lyrics to a Sugary Chant (Prologue omitted)
224 - 190
224 YAN Ren Magnolia Lyrics
225 - 190
225 YU Guobao Lyrics to the Melody of Winds Soughing Through Pines
226 - 191
226 ZHANG Zi Lyrics to the Melody of a Garden Full of Blossoms
227 - 192
227 ZHANG Zi Lyrics to the Melody of a Pavilion in the Yan Mountains
228 - 193
228 SHI Dazu Lyrics to the Fragrance of Damask (Ode to Spring Rain)
229 - 194
229 SHI Dazu Lyrics to Pairs of Swallows (Ode to Swallows)
230 - 195
230 SHI Dazu The First Bloom in Easterlies (On spring snow)
231 - 196
231 SHI Dazu Lyrics to the Joy of Seeing Migrating Orioles
232 - 197
232 SHI Dazu Lyrics to the Melody of Three Lovely Ladies
233 - 198
233 SHI Dazu Lyrics to the Melody of an Autumn Day after Rain
234 - 199
234 SHI Dazu Lyrics to the Melody of Night-blooming Silk Trees
235 - 200
235 SHI Dazu Lyrics to the Melody of Green Butterflies
236 - 201
236 SHI Dazu Lyrics to the Melody of Eight Stops
237 - 202
237 LIU Kezhuang Lyrics to the Raw Haws Melody
238 - 203
238 LIU Kezhuang Lyrics to the Melody of Congratulations to the Groom (On the fifth of
lunar May)
239 - 204
239 LIU Kezhuang Lyrics to the Melody of Congratulations to the Groom (On the ninth)
240 - 205
240 LIU Kezhuang Magnolia Lyrics
241 - 205
241 LU Zugao Lyrics to the Melody of a River Town
242 - 206
242 LU Zugao Lyrics to the Melody of a Banquet at the Town of Clarity
243 - 207
243 FAN Fang Lyrics to a Southern Country Melody (An inscription for a brothel in the
County of Southern Swords)
244 - 208
244 LU Rui Lyrics to the Melody of an Auspicious Crane-riding Immortal
245 - 209
245 XIAO Tailai Lyrics to the Melody of a Frosty Sky at the Crack of Dawn
246 - 209
246 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of Crossing a River of Clouds (On the spring
equinox day at the West Lake)
247 - 210
247 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of Night-blooming Silk Trees (While sailing along
the White Crane River towards the capital, I moored at Fengmeng and grew
sentimental.)
248 - 211
248 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of Drifting Frosty Leaves (On the Double Ninth)
249 - 212
249 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of a Banquet at the Bright City (Cherry apple trees
with intertwining boughs)
250 - 213
250 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of Heavenly Joy
251 - 214
251 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of Overflowing Blossoms (Guo Xidao offered
daffodils as a gift and asked for a composition.)
252 - 214
252 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of Sandy Creek Washers
253 - 215
253 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of Sandy Creek Washers
254 - 215
254 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of Touching Up Rouged Lips (The lantern night
has just cleared up.)
255 - 216
255 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of By the Honourable Terrace of The Zhus (The
coming of spring on New Year's eve)
256 - 217
256 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of By the Honourable Terrace of The Zhus
(Sightseeing at the garden ruins by the Turtle Creek as a traveller)
257 - 218
257 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Fragrance of Bathing in Orchids (On the Double Fifth in
Huai'an)
258 - 219
258 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of Winds Soughing Through Pines
259 - 220
259 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Oriole Warbles Prelude (Prologue omitted)
260 - 221
260 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Adagio of Cherishing Yellow Blooms (Prologue omitted)
261 - () 222
261 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of the Terrace of the Zenithal Sun (The falling of
plum blossoms)
262 - 223
262 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of the Terrace of the Zenithal Sun (At the House of
Prosperity and Joy I was allotted to rhyme with the word ru)
263 - 224
263 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of Three Lovely Ladies
264 - 225
264 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Ganzhou Melody of Eight Rhymes
265 - 225
265 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of Walking on Grass
266 - 226
266 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of an Auspicious Crane-riding Immortal
267 - 227
267 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of a Partridge-filled Sky (Written whilst at the
Temple of Reformation)
268 - 227
268 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of Sauntering in the Palace at Night
269 - 228
269 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of Congratulations to the Groom (Admiring plum
blossoms with Master Lzhai at the Pavilion of Billows)
270 - 229
270 WU Wenying Lyrics to a Sugary Chant
271 - 229
271 HUANG Xiaomai The Moon of a Xiang Spring Night
272 - 230
272 PAN Xibai Lyrics to the Melody of A Great Deal Of (The Double Ninth)
273 - 230
273 HUANG Gongshao Lyrics to the Melody of Green Jadeite Bowl
274 - 231
274 ZHU Sifa Lyrics to the Melody of Fishing with Bare Hands
275 - 232
275 LIU Chenweng Lyrics to the Duke of Lanling Melody (On seeing off spring in the
year of Bingzi)
276 - () 233
276 LIU Chenweng Lyrics to the Appearance of a Precious Caldron (On the spring moon)
277 - 234
277 LIU Chenweng Lyrics to the Melody of Forever in Happiness (Prologue omitted)
278 - 235
278 LIU Chenweng Lyrics to the Melody of Fishing with Bare Hands (Prologue omitted)
279 - 236
279 ZHOU Mi Lyrics to the Melody of the Terrace of the Zenithal Sun (On seeing off
Chen Junheng who has been summoned)
280 - 237
280 ZHOU Mi Lyrics to the Jade Flower (Prologue omitted)
281 - 238
281 ZHOU Mi Lyrics to the Melody of the Capital's Bright Moon in Autumn (Prologue
omitted)
282 - 239
282 ZHOU Mi A Melody Wandering in Spring (Prologue omitted)
283 - 240
283 ZHOU Mi Lyrics to the Melody of Overflowing Blossoms (On narcissi)
284 - 241
284 JIANG Jie Lyrics to the Melody of an Auspicious Crane-riding Immortal (On seeing
the moon in the countryside)
285 - 242
285 JIANG Jie - Lyrics to the Melody of Congratulations to the Groom
286 - 243
286 JIANG Jie Lyrics to the Melody of a Lady's Headwear (On the night of a year's first
full moon)
287 - 244
287 JIANG Jie Lyrics to the Melody Dedicated to Lady Yu (Listening to the rain)
288 - 244
288 ZHANG Yan Lyrics to the Melody of the Terrace of the Zenithal Sun
289 - 245
289 ZHANG Yan Lyrics to the Melody of Crossing a River of Clouds (I've roam the west
for a long time, Wang Jucun asked about what I've composed lately, I thus this wrote to
put in the post for him.)
290 - 246
290 ZHANG Yan Lyrics to the Ganzhou Melody of Eight Rhymes (Prologue omitted)
291 - 247
291 ZHANG Yan Lyrics to the Resolution of Connected Rings (A lone wild goose)
292 - 248
292 ZHANG Yan Lyrics to the Melody of Scattered Light and Shade (A chant on lotus
leaves)
293 - 249
293 ZHANG Yan Lyrics to the Sound of a Pipe under the Moon (Prologue omitted)
294 - 250
294 WANG Yisun Lyrics to the Melody of a Heavenly Aroma (On the incense named
Dragon's Froth)
295 - 251
295 WANG Yisun Dainty Brows (On a new moon)
296 - 252
296 WANG Yisun Lyrics to the Melody of Heavenly Joy (On cicadas)
297 - 253
297 WANG Yisun The Adagio of Lamenting Along a Gallery (On revisiting the villa
Zhongan used to reside)
298 - 254
298 WANG Yisun Lyrics to the Melody of the Terrace of the Zenithal Sun (Prologue
omitted)
299 - 255
299 WANG Yisun Lyrics to a Symphony to be Presented to Immortals (Prologue omitted)
300 - 256
300 PENG Yuanxun Lyrics to the Melody of Scattered Light and Shade (On seeking plum
blossoms but finding none)
301 - 257
301 PENG Yuanxun Lyrics to the Melody of Six Failings (On willow catkins)
302 - 258
302 YAO Yunwen The Adagio of the Fragrance of Fuchsia Evodia
303 - 259
303 Seng Hui Lyrics to the Melody of a Bright Golden Pond
304 - 260
304 LI Qingzhao Lyrics to the Melody of Reminiscing the Flute Play on the Phoenix
Terrace
305 - 261
305 LI Qingzhao Lyrics to a Dreamy Chant
306 - 261
306 LI Qingzhao Lyrics to the Melody of Becoming Drunk in the Shade of Blossoms
307 - 262
307 LI Qingzhao Lyrics to the Adagio of Resonance
308 - 263
308 LI Qingzhao Lyrics to Remembering Your Charm
309 - 264
309 LI Qingzhao Lyrics to the Melody of Forever in Happiness
310 - 264
310 LI Qingzhao Lyrics to the Melody of Sandy Creek Washers
000 - 265
000 LI Qingzhao A Sprig of Plum Blossom
000 - 265
000 YE Mengde - Lyrics to the Melody of Touching Up Rouged Lips (Up on a small
pavilion on a mountain peak in the Shaoxing era in the year of Yi Mao)
000 - 266
000 LI Yu - A Joyful Rendezvous
001 -
001 QIAN Weiyan Magnolia Lyrics
/ English Translation
In the town, the warble of orioles mingles among its glorious scenery and sights,
In the moat of the town, against the enclosing walls crush waves of springtime.
For how long last the green of willows and the fragrance of grass?
My eyes are growing teary, yet already rent are my melancholic insides.
002 -
002 FAN Zhongyan Lyrics to Sumuzhe
/ English Translation
The sky is blue with clouds, the ground covered in leaves yellowed,
To the water's edge spread autumn colours, cold mist hovers over green waters.
The setting sun reflects off mountain ranges, the sky and waters a picture paint,
Grass feels not, more of it grows beyond the setting sun like uninhibited nostalgia.
003 -
003 FAN Zhongyan Lyrics to Fishermen's Melody
/ English Translation
Over a sip of stale wine I think of home that is tens of thousands of miles away,
Being far from achieving a Yanran milestone, I am unable to set a return date.
Lingering in the air are Qiang pipe tunes as hoarfrost covers the ground of this place.
Wakeful I stay,
A grey-haired general I am, weeping tears of a soldier on a military campaign.
004 -
004 FAN Zhongyan Lyrics to the Imperial Drive Melody
/ English Translation
005 -
005 ZHANG Xian Millennium Lyrics
/ English Translation
There rise chirps of cuckoos, again they have come to call blossoms' end.
To seize spring, I longingly pick flowers' colourful remains.
Sudden rains and stormy winds the season of green plums commence.
Over the Yongfeng grounds, there's no one but drifting catkins all day.
Stroke not even a string, for it can such reticent bitterness express.
Unless the heavens mortal becomes, my love will never be laid to rest,
My heart is a cobweb doubled over, tied and knotted with a million frets.
The night is nearly over, the lamp has burnt out, the day hasn't broken yet.
006 -
006 ZHANG Xian Lyrics to the Bodhisattva Melody
/ English Translation
007 -
007 ZHANG Xian Lyrics to a Tippler's Drooping Whip
/ English Translation
008 -
008 ZHANG Xian Lyrics to a Thicket of Flowers
/ English Translation
When could I not be saddened by heights and yearn for the distant no more?
There is nothing as intense as love.
Parting sorrows perturb me like thousands of intertwining willows,
In the fields further east, catkins drizzle and mizzle creating a haze.
The sound of horse galloping distant becomes, unsettled is the dust they've raised,
Yet where could I find prints to your whereabouts trace?
009 -
009 ZHANG Xian Lyrics to the Melody of a Heavenly Fairy (I was a
magistrate in Jiahe at the time, sick I was and thus unable to attend a
government banquet. )
/ English Translation
010 -
010 ZHANG Xian Lyrics to Blue Gate Prelude
/ English Translation
The weather is such that a moment's warmth could suddenly a slight chill become,
Then comes evening before the wind and rain come to a stop.
Quiet and empty is the courtyard, drawing near is the vernal equinox,
Here I am drinking among remnants of blossoms,
With the same sentimental malaise from last year I am struck.
Sobering is the sound of bugles blaring from the watch tower carried by the wind,
Deep into the night locked behind gates and doors is stillness.
Unbearable is what the bright moon conveys
Through the wall, the shadow of a swing.
011 -
011 ZHANG Xian Lyrics to the Raw Haws Melody
/ English Translation
012 -
012 YAN Shu Lyrics to the Melody of Sandy Creek Washers
/ English Translation
013 -
013 YAN Shu Lyrics to the Melody of Sandy Creek Washers
/ English Translation
014 -
014 YAN Shu Lyrics to the Joy of Peace and Tranquillity
/ English Translation
015 -
015 YAN Shu Lyrics to the Joy of Peace and Tranquillity
/ English Translation
016 -
016 YAN Shu Magnolia Lyrics
/ English Translation
The pond water is green and the breeze light and genial,
They remind me of the first time I saw her face.
Her singing of the Repetition was like the ringing of jade,
Her dance to the Cleaving symphony whirled petals around her waist.
Outside the raised delicate curtains, below the balustrade by the stairs,
Drunk I am, unaware that the sun has set and the time is late.
Of those that I admired the blossoms with,
Only fewer than half still alive remain.
017 -
017 YAN Shu Magnolia Lyrics
/ English Translation
Once swallows and wild geese have dashed off, orioles would flit away,
Reminiscences of a lifetime give rise to millions of sentiments.
Life is a like a vernal dream, yet how long lasts it?
Once gone, it is nowhere to be found, like autumn clouds it fades.
018 -
018 YAN Shu Magnolia Lyrics
/ English Translation
Green willows and fragrant grasses lined the gallery where we parted ways,
How easily youth takes its leave while I remain.
High up on a building I face the wee hours with shattered dreams,
Under blossoms suffuse parting sorrows in the form of March drizzling rain.
019 -
019 YAN Shu Lyrics to the Melody of Walking on Grass
/ English Translation
020 -
020 YAN Shu Lyrics to the Melody of Walking on Grass
/ English Translation
Along the path flowers are thinning, the countryside is fields of green,
Next to raised buildings becoming thick is the foliage dense with leaves.
Vernal breezes know not how to catkins restrain,
Allowing them to scatter on faces of passers-by like misty mizzle.
Behind verdant leaves orioles hide, swallows rest outside crimson screens,
Over the incense burner curls of smoke one another quietly seek.
After I have slept off intoxication in a melancholy dream,
The private court has come well under sunset's gleams.
021 -
021 YAN Shu Lyrics to a Melody of Walking on Grass
/ English Translation
On the sea aquamarine with no billows there is a path to the celestial terrace,
We should be able to there fly towards as a pair if our hearts so wish.
Once I left behind rashly the object of my affections,
Now being mountains and waters apart I know not where she is.
A dusty, delicately woven mat remains in the bed chamber lightly veiled by mist,
On whom could I rely to bring you a crimson note in small script?
On a tall building I look into the distance and see the day drawing to a close,
As a whistling drizzle rustles the leafage of phoenix trees.
022 -
022 YAN Shu Lyrics to the Melody of Butterflies Chasing Flowers
/ English Translation
023 -
023 HAN Zhen Pheonix Flute Chant
/ English Translation
024 -
024 SONG Qi Magnolia Lyrics
/ English Translation
025 -
025 OUYANG Xiu Lyrics to Mulberry Pickers
/ English Translation
After the season of bloom the West Lake shows its best,
Petals fall in disarray, flitting catkins float,
And willows hanging over balustrades waver in the wind all day long.
026 -
026 OUYANG Xiu A Recital of a True Heart
/ English Translation
Raising of the curtains in the morning also light frost lifted away,
I warmed my hands to try on her the plum make-up.
Feeling surrounded in sorrows of parting,
The brows I drew were long like mountain ranges.
027 -
027 OUYANG Xiu Lyrics to the Melody of Walking on Grass
/ English Translation
Around the high-rise plum blossoms wither, by the bridge tender willows thrive,
The fragrance of grass wafts across in warm breezes wavering marching riders.
The further I move on the more my parting grief grows and infinite becomes,
Like vernal waters it springs endlessly spreading far and wide.
028 -
028 OUYANG Xiu Lyrics to the Melody of Butterflies Chasing Flowers
/ English Translation
029 -
029 OUYANG Xiu Lyrics to the Melody of Butterflies Chasing Flowers
/ English Translation
030 -
030 OUYANG Xiu Lyrics to the Melody of Butterflies Chasing Flowers
/ English Translation
For days I've been drifting like fleeting clouds, yet where have I reached?
Forgetting to home return, I'm about to see the end of spring.
On the day of Cold Fare, verdure and flowers of various kinds line the streets,
Where can I find her fragrant coach, tied to whose tree?
031 -
031 OUYANG Xiu Magnolia Lyrics
/ English Translation
Winds through bamboo thickets in the deep of the night an autumn rhythm beat,
Note after note sounding regretful is the rustle of millions of leaves.
Lying on a lone pillow I wilfully dream to your presence seek,
Till lights cinders become, yet not a hint of a dream comes to me
032 -
032 OUYANG Xiu Lyrics to the Linjiang Narcissi
/ English Translation
Beyond the foliage of willows claps soft thunder, over the pool falls rain,
Drips and drops of rain on lotus leaves sound create.
A rainbow hangs to the west of this place.
By the balustrade I lean,
Waiting for the moon to shine and height gain.
Here come swallows scouting about columns and beams that are decorated,
So I lower the curtains by letting loose hooks made of jade.
The pattern on the flat bamboo mat glistens like cool water waves.
By the pair of glass pillows,
Lie a hairpin on its side mislaid.
033 -
033 OUYANG Xiu Lyrics to Sandy Creek Washers
/ English Translation
034 -
034 OUYANG Xiu Lyrics to the Melody of Waves Dredging Sand
/ English Translation
People gather and scatter, reunions are always bitterly brief, forever leaving regrets.
This year's blossoms surpass last year's in brightness,
Though next year's may be even brighter still,
Who knows whose company I'd be in?
035 -
035 OUYANG Xiu Lyrics to the Melody of Green Jadeite Bowl
/ English Translation
036 - ()
036 NIE Guangqing Lyrics to Many Beauties (Ode to Li's banquet)
/ English Translation
037 -
037 LIU Yong Lyrics to Jade Flute Tune
/ English Translation
Over the hilltop clouds float, by the river the sun sets,
Misty waters ripple before my eyes as I long against the balustrade lean.
Panoramic is the view yet bleak is the landscape,
There falls a thousands miles of high autumn that I cannot bear to see.
Distant and out of sight are the immortal palace and my faerie beauty,
Since parting, no reply to my billet-doux has been received.
A straying wild goose without company
Slowly comes flitting down on an islet to reflect as it lingers.
038 -
038 LIU Yong Lyrics to Tinkling Heavy Rain
/ English Translation
I listen to cicadas singing dolefully in the cold from across the gallery at dusk,
The sudden rain has just come to a halt.
She puts out a farewell toast outside a capital gate, yet dejected is the mood,
While I wish to linger, ready to row off is the magnolia canoe.
Holding hands, we look into each other's teary eyes,
Yet unable to words utter, on emotions we choke.
As I think of the flow of misty waters that undulate for thousands of miles,
Leaden is the evening clouds that occupy the vast southern skies.
039 -
039 LIU Yong Lyrics to the Melody of Butterflies Chasing Flowers
/ English Translation
040 -
040 LIU Yong Lyrics to the Melody of Lotus Picking
/ English Translation
Moonlight has faded, pale are clouds in the frosty sky of dawn.
Travellers heading west must be feeling the hardship.
Her delicate hand mine holds,
To see me off to the main road, she opens the squeaky crimson door.
She with her charming face stands at the roadside,
In teary reticence, how could I bare to look back with a broken heart?
041 -
041 LIU Yong Lyrics to the Adagio of Waves Dredging Sand
/ English Translation
Immensely grieved I am, over and again I recall the bygone days,
So many things that took place in the depth of our bedchamber,
Time and again we drank till it was late and sang by the balustrades,
Warm and fragrant was the quilt made for twain.
When we had to briefly separate, it would cause her heartache,
Deep was our love and strong our passion,
We each other cared for and cherished.
Nowadays, nights have become ever so long,
Why did I our separation cause?
When will it be, when I could a passionate life possess again?
When I would stoop to enter behind bedchamber drapes to her pillow share,
And whisper in her ear,
How night after night everywhere I went,
I'd yearn for her as I, in the chill, the night watches anticipated.
042 -
042 LIU Yong Lyrics to the Adagio of Pacified Storm
/ English Translation
Since the arrival of spring, pathetic seems the green and saddened the red,
I've been absent-minded and vague.
The sun has risen to flower tips shine on, as orioles dash between willows,
Yet I am still lying in bed enwrapped in a fragrant quilt.
Worn off is my powdered face, loose are my smooth tresses,
All day in languor I remain, unable to my hair comb out and dress up.
Helpless I feel. I despise the heartless who once left hasn't send an epistle.
043 -
043 LIU Yong Lyrics to the Melody of Youthful Rambles
/ English Translation
044 -
044 LIU Yong Lyrics to Lady Qi's Song
/ English Translation
045 -
045 LIU Yong Lyrics to the Melody of Midnight Joy
/ English Translation
046 -
046 LIU Yong Lyrics to the Melody of Green Butterflies
/ English Translation
Unforgettable were the times. Since those poetic and tasteful rendezvous,
I spent years bracing the winds of change, transits of the moon and frosty stars.
Separated by vast seas and dividing ranges,
Where do the waters of Xiao and Xiang come together?
I guess paired swallows can't be relied on to tidings deliver,
For in a dusky sky, hard to recognise is a homing path.
Swamped in emotions I am, listening to the cries of wild geese that linger,
I stand through the twilight hours.
047 -
047 LIU Yong Lyrics to the Ganzhou Melody of Eight Rhymes
/ English Translation
048 -
048 LIU Yong Lyrics to the Prelude of Infatuation
/ English Translation
Readily cast aside are past pleasures, I arrive in the shape of an exiled officer.
Feeling travellers' long-distance toil, I must be advanced in years.
The landscape and scenery of a foreign place
Present loneliness that I must bear as I've come to eye them with melancholy.
Out of bounds are the capital and grand architecture, grieving a travelling soul.
Grasslands spread towards the vast sky, basking in the glow of evening,
Of my fair lady I've received no news, after all parted clouds far and apart drift.
049 -
049 LIU Yong Lyrics to the Melody of Bamboo Horses
/ English Translation
050 -
050 LIU Yong Lyrics to the Adagio of Linjiang Narcissi
/ English Translation
051 -
051 WANG Anshi Lyrics to the Fragrance of Cinnamon Twigs
/ English Translation
I make a climb to cast my eyes afar, our capital is seeing late autumn climes,
Solemn is the atmosphere.
The limpid Yangtze winds for thousands of miles like a ribbon
Around ranges of viridian peaks.
Homing boats sail in twilight,
Against the westerlies, leaning wine flags flutter fiercely.
Colourful boats glide by under a sky of few clouds, stars rise over the Egret Isle,
No painting could do justice to such a scene.
052 -
052 WANG Anshi Lyrics to the Millennium Prelude
/ English Translation
From within the hostel comes the garment pressing sound in the cold,
From the lonely town bugles blare,
The sound of autumn pervades throughout all voids of space.
Eastbound swallows fly over the sea on their way home,
Wild geese on their way to the south on the sandbar catch a rest.
The same wind that pleased the Duke of Chu on the Terrace blows,
And same moon Yu admired from the South Tower shines, just as they did in those days.
053 -
053 WANG Anguo Lyrics to the Joy of Peace and Tranquillity
/ English Translation
054 -
054 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Linjiang Narcissi
/ English Translation
055 -
055 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Melody of Butterfles Chasing Flowers
/ English Translation
In a dream at the Yangtze's south, among the misty waters of canals I roam,
Yet all over the river's south, I haven't yet the lady I left behind come across.
In my slumbers there's no one to whom I could my sorrows disclose,
Only to wake up to the gloom of having been misled by these sorrows.
056 -
056 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Melody of Butterfles Chasing Flowers
/ English Translation
We parted drunk in the west chamber only to wake up remembering very little,
In dreamy spring and cloudy fall, we readily gathered and of each other took leave.
The moon shines through the half-opened window allowing me little sleep,
Clearly visible is the green Wu mountains spreading across the decorated screen.
057 -
057 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Melody of a Partridge-filled Sky
/ English Translation
Your colourful sleeves move affectionately as you raise your jade cup,
Years ago you would rather drink till red in the face risking becoming drunk.
Your dance moonlight attracted to the inside of the willow-surrounded loft,
Your singing drifted with the breeze and the waving of mahogany fans.
Ever since our parting, I've thought of seeing your once more,
How I've been dreaming of having your company.
Tonight I raise the silver candle holder to illuminate a better look,
For I'm afraid of seeing our reunion turning out to be a dream once more.
058 -
058 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Melody of a Partridge-filled Sky
/ English Translation
Inebriated I cling to the spring clothes on which the fragrance of bygones lingers,
Heaven knows well how adolescent impulsiveness can lead to regretful partings.
Year after year autumn's withered grass across fields spreads,
Day after day I dwell in my chamber till sunset.
059 -
059 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Raw Haws Melody
/ English Translation
060 -
060 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Raw Haws Melody
/ English Translation
061 -
061 YAN Jidao Magnolia Lyrics
/ English Translation
Who knows how not to become drawn to the remaining spring vibes,
Which seem to draw tears from me everywhere I stop by.
Now I must raise the golden chalice and drink till I'm deep in a stupor,
All blossoms go out of bloom, yet how often can I allow myself to intoxicated become?
062 -
062 YAN Jidao Magnolia Lyrics
/ English Translation
Vague is the swing in the garden veiled by dusk, seen through a window heavily screened.
In my idleness I write a poem on the bedroom door.
Spring rain has come to a stop, and over the wall bloom apricot trees.
Outside the doors sway green willows casting catkins in the breeze.
063 -
063 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Joy of Peace and Tranquillity
/ English Translation
064 -
064 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Melody of When Returns Mr Ruan
/ English Translation
The phoenix on the quilt feels the cold, alone is the mandarin duck on the pillow,
My nostalgic soul awaits the consolation of alcohol.
There might have been dreams and fantasies but they are after all false and hollow,
How unbearable that I now have no dream at all.
065 -
065 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Melody of When Returns Mr Ruan
/ English Translation
With sleeves wearing purple orchids and hair adorned with chrysanthemums in yellow,
I so wish to mimic and relive the passion of yore.
How I would like to exchange grief for crapulence,
I pray that the singing of operatic arias wouldn't render me heartbroken.
066 -
066 YAN Jidao Lyrics to a Six-beat Chant
/ English Translation
Exuberant foliage sees off the end of spring, around the loft catkins whirl.
In the evening I am to draw her brows,
So now I the shape of distant mountains imitate.
Untold was a touch of passion I've been trying to contain,
Yet her glance has already it discovered.
Surrounded by screens, drapes and newly composed melodies,
Such fooling around only idlers could tolerate.
067 -
067 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Imperial Drive Melody
/ English Translation
068 -
068 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Melody Dedicated to Lady Yu
/ English Translation
Worn is my dress, yet there lingers a fragrance of days that have gone by,
There's nothing to sway me from what I've decided.
One spring's parting leaves me melancholy and lethargic to strings tighten.
Two trails of tears roll freely as I sit before a zither that is priceless.
069 -
069 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Spring-retaining Chant
/ English Translation
070 -
070 YAN Jidao Lyrics to Pining for the Distant Traveller
/ English Translation
My tears roll without end, off they fall from the window ledge,
A few splashes ink become following the grinding in the ink well.
Gradually I come to write about the days since our parting, intense are my feelings,
That pales the envelope's colour of red.
071 -
071 YAN Jidao Lyrics to the Melody of a Garden Full of Blossoms
/ English Translation
There's not much left in a year, chrysanthemums by the fence are wilting,
Phoenix trees by the creek are shedding leaves
There leaves only a cup of wine to go with a cool moon and a chilly breeze.
I have no one to disclose my dreariness to,
But to pour all my affections and sorrows into cups of spirits.
Still, there is our rendezvous, I await your return,
For a close look of heartfelt tears that will be damping my sleeves.
072 -
072 SU Shi Lyrics to the First Water Melody (On the night of the Mid Autumn
Festival in the year of Bingchen, we drank at liberty till morn leading me to
write this as I also thought of Ziyou.)
/ English Translation
073 -
073 SU Shi Lyrics to the Water Dragon Chant (Following Zhang Zhifu's verse
on willow catkins)
/ English Translation
074 -
074 SU Shi Lyrics to Remembering Your Charm (Remembrance of the Tale of
the Crimson Cliff)
/ English Translation
The great gushing Yangtze with piling waves flows towards the east,
Away it carries gallant souls of the remote bygone days.
The ancient fort on the west is said to be
The Crimson Cliff, where Zhou of the Three Kingdoms era Wei's navy defeated.
Stones were hurled into the sky indiscriminatingly,
Mighty waves must have crushed onto shores hurling high snow-like foam.
The river and mountains today's landscapes paint,
Where once there were many courageous and heroic men.
075 -
075 SU Shi Lyrics to the Melody of Forever in Happiness (I stayed
overnight at the Swallows House in the town of Peng and dreamt of the
legendary Panpan, and wrote the following verse.)
/ English Translation
The moon is as bright and pure as frost, the breeze as gentle and smooth as water,
Pleasant is the scene that spreads before me.
Within the curve of the cove fish leap, on round lotus leaves dew drops roll,
Yet there is no sightseers here to take in the lonesome atmosphere.
There comes the drum roll of midnight and a clear sound of a leaf taking a fall,
Startling me awake from a gloomy, lingering dream.
Still and deep is the night, bygones cannot be recovered,
In my wakefulness I stroll this garden thoroughly.
I'm a worn-out vagabond of the world, I see there are tracks in the mountains,
Yet I fear I may never be able to return to the home in my heart.
Deserted is the Swallow House, where could the fair lady be found?
Locked in are swallows in the house in vain.
Those times before and this moment in time are like dreams, yet do we ever wake?
We seem to only ever pile on bygone happiness and new regrets.
Come another time, somewhere in an ochre building at night,
Someone may in my stead lament and sigh.
076 -
076 SU Shi Lyrics to the Melody of an Immortal Who Lived in a Cave
/ English Translation
I rise to take her delicate hand, quiet is the courtyard and its environs,
A star or two the Milky Way cross between whiles.
How deep is the night, wonder I?
Approaching midnight is the time,
Moonlight pales as the northern stars low slide.
I count with my fingers when the season of westerlies would arrive,
Before I could become aware of it, lapsed has fleeting time.
077 -
077 SU Shi Lyrics to the Melody of Divining Numbers (written when
residing at the Dinghui Court in Huangzhou)
/ English Translation
078 -
078 SU Shi Lyrics to the Melody of Green Jadeite Bowl (Farewells to Bogu's
return to the Wu region, in accordance with He Fanghui's rhyme)
/ English Translation
For the past three years I've dreamt of being on my way to the region of Wu,
Here I send along my dog with ochre fur to accompany you.
Once you arrive at the Pine River asking to the waters cross,
Startle not mandarin ducks and herons there,
Everywhere all round the famed four bridges is where Lao Zi once trod.
079 -
079 SU Shi Lyrics to the Linjiang Narcissi
/ English Translation
At the eastern slope I drank away the night and any sobriety that returned to me,
It must have been midnight when I came home.
My houseboy's snoring resonates like a thundering roll,
No one responded to my knocking on doors,
Leaving me to lean on my cane listening to the river's flow.
080 -
080 SU Shi Lyrics to the Melody of a Pacified Storm
On the seventh of March, along the Shahu Pass sudden rains befell us, those with rain gear hurried ahead; while
my colleagues all felt discomfiture, I alone did not. The sky has since cleared up, so I have written as follows.
/ English Translation
081 -
081 SU Shi Lyrics to the Melody of a River Town (A record of a dream on the
night of the twentieth of January, in the year of Yimao)
/ English Translation
Ten years of separation by the immeasurable distance between life and death
Is not something I'd like to think about, yet unforgettable it is already.
A thousands miles away is your lonely grave,
I've nowhere to visit and my grief express.
Even if we could meet, we probably wouldn't each other recognise,
For my faces has aged and my sideburns greyed as I have life's hardship sustained.
082 -
082 SU Shi Magnolia Lyrics (Following Ouyang's West Lake rhyme)
/ English Translation
After the arrival of frost, River Huai is no longer as wide as it once was,
There is only the Ying River murmuring in vain.
Though Master Ouyang's verses are still sung by girls of this place,
The past forty-three years have disappeared like a lightning flare.
083 -
083 SU Shi Lyrics to the Melody of Congratulations to the Groom
/ English Translation
084 -
084 HUANG Tingjian Lyrics to the Melody of a Pacified Storm
/ English Translation
In exile in the Qian region I am, taking residence in a cottage with a leaking roof,
To spend a day inside the cottage is like to survive a boat ride.
Finally the sky begins to clear up as the season closes in on the Double Ninth,
So I give in to drinking,
For not far at all is the Gate of Hell, just before the flow enters the River of Shu.
Don't make fun of an old man like me, whose spirit soars still,
You see,
How often do you come across a head of hair that has turned white completely?
We might as well stay before drama stages to follow the grace and charm of the Xies,
And those archers and cavalry,
Whose dynamic valour parallels that of the ancients.
085 -
085 HUANG Tingjian Lyrics to the Melody of a Partridge-filled Sky (Of
those seated, there was the hermit of Mount Mei, Shi Yingzhi, who offered a
prelude, and I responded with this.)
/ English Translation
086 -
086 QIN Guan Lyrics to Gazing at the Tide of the Sea
/ English Translation
Pure and delicate are plum blossoms, snow melts and flow away,
Concealed in easterlies is lapsed youth.
Those attending the bazaars of the Golden Valley and Copper Camel Alleyway
Are treading lightly raising mild dust on such a new fine day.
I still remember that time when I followed the wrong coach,
Among drifting catkins butterflies whirl to my spring nostalgia complicate.
In the shade of willows and along paths lined with peach trees,
Households all over receive a share of this spring landscape.
In the West Garden I drink the night away and the Tartar pipe play,
There are lanterns overshadowing the moon,
And a marquee getting in the way of drifting blooms.
Not yet bare is the orchid garden, growing old are those who come and go,
Every time I there enter adds to my lament and regrets.
In the obscurity of smoke, wine flags incline,
I lean over a high-rise to further my sight,
And see many a duck returning to branches and stay.
Although I so desire homecoming,
I could only send my thoughts with the flowing water to the very far away.
087 -
087 QIN Guan Lyrics to the Melody of Eight and Six
/ English Translation
088 -
088 QIN Guan Lyrics to the Melody of a Garden Full of Blossoms
/ English Translation
Light clouds smear across the mountains, attached to the horizon is wilting grass,
The blare of a bugle from the watch tower comes to a stop.
I let the boat rest for a while,
As we chat and drink up many cups of wine.
There have been many anecdotes about the Penglai wonderland,
Yet we could only tales recount in vain amid hazy fog and smoke.
Under a setting sun, black crows several marks create in the sky,
Rushing waters of the river around the lonesome town wind.
089 -
089 QIN Guan Lyrics to the Melody of a Garden Full of Blossoms
/ English Translation
090 -
090 QIN Guan Lyrics to the Melody of Walking on Grass
/ English Translation
Fog conceals edifices and its terraces, the ferry is held captive by moonlight,
Despite every survey, nowhere could I the Fountainhead of Peach Blossoms find.
Unbearable is this lonesome inn that is supposed to shut out the cold of spring,
Especially at twilight surrounded by cuckoos' heart-rending cries.
I'm sending you a sprig of plum blooms from the inn and a letter through a carp,
To convey my myriads of regrets that have piled miles high.
The River of Chen that meanders around the mountains of Chen,
For whom do you towards the waters of Xiao and Xiang make strides?
091 -
091 QIN Guan - Lyrics to the Melody of a Partridge-filled Sky
/ English Translation
092 -
092 QIN Guan Magnolia Lyrics with reduced words
/ English Translation
093 -
093 QIN Guan Lyrics to the Melody of Sandy Creek Washers
/ English Translation
094 -
094 QIN Guan Lyrics to the Melody of When Returns Mr Ruan
/ English Translation
Windswept rain storms through the sky of Xiang on a day that's becoming wintry,
Gloomy is the garden that is deserted.
Above the gate of the magnificent town tower comes the tune of A Little Chieftain,
Here goes a long night that is still.
095 -
095 CHAO Yuanli Lyrics to the Melody of Green-head Ducks
/ English Translation
096 -
096 ZHAO Lingzhi Lyrics to the Melody of Butterflies Chasing Flowers
/ English Translation
Although I'd like to remove my outer robe, still cold is the air,
I've no intention to raise the beaded screen, deep in a dark corner I dwell.
How many blooms are there among the apricot blossoms?
Tear drops and the traces they leave have been washed away by vernal rains.
All day curls of smoke rise from the burning of aloewood incense,
Slowly I wake from last night's insobriety, vexatious is my mood aroused by spring.
Those swallows have yet again delayed their return date,
Depicted on the delicate screen is the long journey over the rivers in the west.
097 -
097 ZHAO Lingzhi Lyrics to the Melody of Butterflies Chasing Flowers
/ English Translation
A breeze waft through whirling up petals as the spring chill comes to an end,
Drifting pollen sends its fragrance aflutter, scattering crimson around day after day.
More drinks add to insobriety that survive previous nights intensifying distress,
This vernal season sees no less misery than last spring's despair.
Gone are butterflies, away flit orioles, there is no one to my feelings sense,
The edifice may only be a river away, yet my anticipation has brought no mail.
Disappointed is my gaze and my looks frustration express,
Twilight only comes when the sun sets.
098 -
098 ZHAO Lingzhi Lyrics to the Joy of Peace and Tranquillity
/ English Translation
099 -
099 ZHANG Lei Lyrics to the Melody of a Romantic
/ English Translation
100 -
100 CHAO Buzhi Lyrics to the Water Dragon Chant (In rhyme with Lin
Shengzi's Cherishing Spring)
/ English Translation
101 -
101 CHAO Buzhi Lyrics to the Salt Wrapper Melody (Plum blossom viewing
at the Bo Shrine)
/ English Translation
In the way of the wind from the creek, it persuades the moon over the creek to stay,
It shames blossoms of peach trees making their crimson pale.
Throughout the night, it kind blooms sparsely and delicately,
To a unique charm portray.
102 -
102 CHAO Buzhi Lyrics to the Melody of the Remembrance of a Youth
(Farewells to the town of Li)
/ English Translation
103 -
103 CHAO Buzhi Lyrics to the Melody of an Immortal Who Lived in a
Cave (written on the day of Mid-Autumn Festival in Sizhou)
/ English Translation
Mist shrouds over green waters, from the blue sea a golden mirror rises.
On a long night across the deserted stairs the shadow of cinnamon trees recline.
Dewdrops a chill spread, sporadically here and there hum insects in the cold,
Distant is the immortal capital, except for the road to the Bridge of Azure.
Not yet let down is the beaded crystal screen, extended is the mica shield,
With a depiction of the lightly powdered Moon Goddess and her desolation.
Let us gather every nuance of moonlight
So as to instil them into cups of drinks,
And while waiting for the day to break, let us bottom up such heavenly wine.
Then let us pick up a cane chair each and the South Tower climb,
To admire the bright jade as it cast flawless rays over thousands of square miles.
104 -
104 CHAO Chongzhi Lyrics to the Linjiang Narcissi
/ English Translation
Recollections of the West Pond come to me, how we drank in the pond,
Year after year, how we had many a joyful moment.
Since our parting, you have not so much as sent my way a note,
When we do come across each other on occasions,
I cannot even sense goodwill that a new acquaintance usually holds.
I've prepared a bed of embroidered quilt hoping for a good night's dream,
So as to allow me to the rivers and lakes cross.
In my wistfulness how could I consider where it would lead me towards?
For I know once spring has gone,
There is no one to prevent blossoms from drifting to their fall.
105 -
105 SHU Dan Lyrics to the Melody Dedicated to Lady Yu
/ English Translation
Flowers of lotus have wilted in the waters that the sky runs into,
At sunset dusky waves undulates.
Silhouetted against cold-seeming clouds a pair of swallows flit across,
On a raised chamber on the east shore, leaning against the balustrade I gaze.
Life's vicissitudes makes wine the best partner when it comes to faring the old age,
Now that snow has covered the historical Changan Avenue.
When you do the lofty terrace scale,
Post me from the river's south a spring sprig off a plum tree that is blooming away.
106 -
106 ZHU Fu Lyrics to a Fishermen's Melody
/ English Translation
107 -
107 MAO Pang Lyrics to the Melody Sympathising Those Who Have
Drifted Apart (Farewells to a coutesan named Qiongfang composed in a
Buddhist cottage in Fuyang)
/ English Translation
108 -
108 CHEN Ke Lyrics to the Bodhisattva Melody
/ English Translation
At the end of the bridge with red balustrades is the fragrant thoroughfare,
Veiling the street are delicate willows, fragile and weak.
Edifices adorned in the colours of gold and jade rise into the azure sky,
Blooms on a clear day cast onto screens reflections with a red tint.
109 -
109 CHEN Ke Lyrics to the Bodhisattva Melody
/ English Translation
110 - ()
110 LI Yuanying Lyrics to the Melody of an Immortal Who Lived in a
Cave (Prologue omitted)
/ English Translation
After the passing of a snow storm, the garden wakes to a fine morning.
Willows offer their visitors eyefuls of green.
There is also the wind breezing through
Many a bloom of plum trees, contrasting one another in the distance,
Accompanied by smiles and light laughters every now and then.
The most vernal of the year is not when flowers are in full bloom,
But the blooming of lightly scented ones that are charming and delicate.
When it comes to the day of the spring equinox,
Hundreds and thousands of purple and red are the colours of chaotic blossoms,
Yet half gone is springtime.
It is best to cherish such glorious moments and go on excursions readily,
Never mind the spring chill, drinking among flowers will naturally warmth bring.
111 -
111 SHI Yan Lyrics to the Blue Gate Toast
/ English Translation
Hun horses neigh at the northerlies, Han pennants flutter in the snow,
Colourful clouds gather as the setting sun dwindle to a beam of twilight.
Ancient trees the sky join, mountains ranges cross and intertwine,
Everywhere spread desert sands and withered grass.
Stars a ladle form traversing before this inn steeped in silence,
Wakeful I remain, to watch the wick of a lamp in vain burns alight.
Smoke enshrouds the incense burner in the shape of a duck,
Ice forms over a weeping candle, dawn finds it hard to arrive over a frosted sky.
I will not forget how her make-up barely covered the effect of time,
Before I could my cup empty, overflowing I've become with parting grief.
In drunkenness I see the sadness in her eyes,
Dreaming of our intimacy makes me sentimental in my waking hours.
They lead me to dwell on my true feelings,
I barely have the heart to recall what you once whispered to my ear:
Whenever you return on a galloping horse,
Remember to come by my door where I would be waiting with a smile.
112 -
112 LI Zhiyi Lyrics to an Adagio of a Pond of Withered Spring
/ English Translation
113 -
113 LI Zhiyi Lyrics to the Melody of Divining Numbers
/ English Translation
114 -
114 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Chant of an Auspicious Dragon
/ English Translation
Along the Medal Terrace, there remains plum blossoms that are wilting still,
Already beginning to bloom are peach trees.
Quiet are the streets of this neighbourhood,
Swallows that have nests here are about to make a return to their origin.
115 -
115 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of a Romantic
/ English Translation
From afar I can tell that she must have dressed up with make-up applied,
The red gate gapes, towards the west chamber heads she to the moon admire.
In agony will be my dreaming soul for I am unable to her side reach tonight.
When could I let her know of a helpful revelation of a secret kind,
That involves sending the mirror and swapping the incense of affectionate tales?
Heaven would then show us grace, and allow us to meet for a little while!
116 -
116 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Duke of Lanling Melody
/ English Translation
117 -
117 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of an Inlaid Window in the Cold
/ English Translation
118 -
118 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of Six Failings (Written after the
roses have wilted)
/ English Translation
The East Garden is calm and still, becoming shrouded by shadows of greenery,
That quietly surround the base of flowering clusters. There goes a sigh.
Strands of willows seem intent on bothering passing wayfarers,
As if tugging their clothes for a word, to endless parting emotions express.
Tiny is this withered flower that can barely serve as a hairpin or a headdress,
It is after all not quite a golden hairpin as it quivers by itself,
Looking for someone to come to a rest.
Now it has gone with the flow, let it encounter neither morning nor evening tides,
For on the drifting red I've inscribed my wistful writing,
How could it their undulation survive?
119 -
119 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of Night-flying Cuckoo
/ English Translation
On the bridge over the river where I had seen you off, how cool the night is.
Far and low inclines the moon, as it its splendour casts,
On the bronze plate the candle has wept away all its tears,
My clothes come into contact with cool dewdrops thick and fast.
When we were finally about to part,
The breeze carried the drumming from the wharf, stirring trees bearing starry flags.
Bright is my horse that can my mind read,
Even when I my whip apply, it knows to a slow pace keep.
After some distance and many turns we've come to an open field,
Gradually people's chatter fades, I've brought home nothing but melancholy.
I wonder why I this same place return to,
Lost jewellery can no longer be found, away I wander among the winding paths.
There are only pulse plants and a field of barley
Under the setting sun growing to match a person's height.
I linger among them and gather some grass to sit on,
I begin to drink as I sentimentalise and look out to the western sky.
120 -
120 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of a Garden Full of Blossoms
(Written on a summer day on Mount Wishless by the Li River)
/ English Translation
The spring breeze is all but gone while oriole fledglings little remain,
Rains plums nourish, in the afternoon mature trees' foliage refreshed seem.
Remote is this place enclosed by mountains,
Often damp are clothes that need to be dried over stoves.
Quiet is this place where birds are at ease,
Beyond the little bridge, before my eyes is the verdure and its green.
By the balustrade long I stay, there are yellowing bamboos and reeds,
That makes me wonder if I could just set sail for the Nine Rivers region.
121 -
121 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of Passing By Houses of
Coutesans
/ English Translation
122 -
122 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of Overflowing Blossoms
/ English Translation
Low is the white plastered wall, over which plum blossoms extend into sight,
Giving off an aroma that is the same as ever.
Dewdrops on petals condense, washed off seem to be their cosmetics,
Revealing their spectacular beauty and elegance.
Last year, at the grand viewing I gathered alone
Some refreshing and fine tasting delicacies.
Yet ever more precious are impressive tree among snow and ice,
They are like an incense burner surrounded by a quilt of white.
123 -
123 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of Great Gulps
/ English Translation
124 -
124 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of a Lady Confidant (On the
year's first full moon)
/ English Translation
The wind sways the candle and its flame, and dew the lamp dampens,
Under way is the lantern bazaar., brilliantly ablaze.
The moon cast on roof tiles its flowing rays,
Thin clouds scatter, perhaps getting ready for a descent by the moon goddess.
Dressed in light and graceful clothes she would be,
She is likely to resemble a southern lady with a delicate waist.
Pipes and drums roar, people crowds gather and their shadows overlay,
Throughout the streets waft a musky scent.
Seeing as how the city's late-hour curfew is lifted for the night,
Brightly lit are thousands of households to compare with daytime,
Feeling happy and joyful everyone wanders around as they pleased.
Present also are adorned carriages and silk kerchiefs,
As they pass through, light dust horse hoofs trails.
This is one of the best times of a year,
Except waning is the mood I used to have.
Nonetheless lapsed has time, I make my return in a hansom,
Coming to an end are songs and dances.
125 -
125 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of a Pacified Storm
/ English Translation
How I detest the sound coming from the town tower tolling the passing of the night,
Urging us to rise.
How could the heartless the agony of moving apart comprehend?
I cannot push away your lovely arm when you a chalice raise in front of me.
In liquor I steep,
Tomorrow when I drink, who'd be there to hand me cups of spirits.
126 -
126 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of Butterflies Chasing Flowers
/ English Translation
Bright and clear is the moon, yet in consternation are crows on tree boughs.
Deep in the night, the pail and the pulley hang by the well with gilded rails.
As she wakes to my calls, her eyes open shining bright,
Her tears fall, damping the cotton filling of the red pillow that is turning cold.
We each other's hands hold as the frosty wind brush against her hair,
I linger on as I take my leave, unbearable are the words of our parting sorrow.
Upstairs beyond the balustrade stretches the Big Dipper,
Wintry is the dewy air, cocks crow as the distance between you and I grows.
127 -
127 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Resolution of Connected Rings
/ English Translation
128 -
128 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Adagio of Worshipping Stars and the
Moon (Autumnal thoughts)
/ English Translation
Nocturnal shades drive away the hours of the night, mingled in dew is thin dust,
Dim is moonlight that meanders along the alleyways.
A lamp's glow comes through the window and the bamboo fence,
This must be the garden where Lady Autumn once stayed at.
Smilingly we meet,
We are like embracing emerald boughs and jadeite trees,
Colourful and magnificent are clouds in the warmth of sunshine.
Her bright and spirited eyes are pure like orchids that I rarely see in my life.
129 -
129 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to a Border River Chant
/ English Translation
An autumn night like this goes from clear to dark and hazy,
That transforms the garden into a bleak and wintry place.
Long I stand to listen to the sound of coldness,
Thick are clouds with no sight of wild geese, nor their trace.
Deeper sinks the night, gone are people while silence pervades.
Lighting the walls is a lamp glowing in isolation.
Already awake from a drunken stupor,
How do I pass the rest of the night that remains.
130 -
130 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Lament of Those Behind Adorned
Windows
/ English Translation
131 -
131 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of Weichi's Chalice
/ English Translation
132 -
132 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of the West River (In
remembrance of bygone eras at Jinling)
/ English Translation
What a flourishing city full of wine vendors' pennants and operatic drumming!
Faint is the memory of the Wangs, the Xies and their neighbourhoods,
Swallows have come and gone for generations that all have lost count of.
There are now ordinary people along the same streets and alleyways,
Telling tales of the rise and fall of former times in the setting sun.
133 -
133 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of an Auspicious Crane-riding
Immortal
/ English Translation
134 -
134 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Adagio of Waves Dredging Sand
/ English Translation
Stirred by sentiments, before my eyes lie the expansive land and the vast sky.
As I face the chilly dew and breeze, there is no one around,
All I have with me is my sob throughout the night hours.
I say the most indelible of all is the sorrow of parting.
I haven't yet my jade cup emptied,
Pray that a cloud remnant could a waning moon over the west chamber keep.
Losing its shine is the silk lace of a worn and wrinkled quilt,
Loose is the fragrant sachet, spent is the scent.
My singing of lament goes on, so does my drumming that jags a jade pot.
Regretfully the passing of spring abides by no-one,
Against the colour of the night, on the ground scatter snowy pear blossoms.
135 -
135 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of Forever Should Exist Heaven
/ English Translation
The spring breeze warmth spreads, bright light the fog breaks,
All over the terrace by the pond spread vernal shades.
Right now in the courtyard there is no sight of the moon,
In the darkness approaches the Day of Cold Fare.
Those swallows on the beams must have been here before.
They seem to be deriding my worrying alone behind close doors.
Drifting petals whirl by, wafting flowery scents to the gardens of my neighbours,
Leaving on the ground fallen blossoms in disarray.
136 -
136 ZHOU Bangyan Lyrics to the Melody of Sauntering in the Palace at
Night
/ English Translation
137 -
137 HE Zhu Lyrics to the Melody of Green Jadeite Bowl
/ English Translation
Lissom and graceful are a lady's steps, yet she'll never walk towards where I live,
Nonetheless my eyes follow her as she leaves behind her dusty trail.
Who have I to spend my youthful days with?
On an arched bridge, in a blooming garden, or behind green windows and red doors,
Where my lady could be, only spring knows.
Under drifting clouds, the night veils over the pond surrounded by fragrant verdure,
I pick up a brush to compose more heartbroken verses.
How much idle melancholy can one hold?
As much as a river of creeping weeds, a town of whirling blossoms,
And a season of constant drizzling rains as plums ripen.
138 -
138 HE Zhu Lyrics to Melody of the Night Watcher
/ English Translation
Towards the East Gate we made our way, passing by willows outside the gate,
As we go our separate ways, your delicate hand their shoots pick time and again.
At the fall of a leaf see another arrival of fall,
Alone at the Yangtze's south I the balustrade of a high-rise lean against.
By the balustrade that extends and winds, long I stand there and gaze,
I scratch my head pondering in the twilight haze.
Without end spread my regrets that sorrows unveil,
Across the sky they permeate in search of its end.
139 -
139 HE Zhu Lyrics to the Melody of Obliged to the Imperial Grace
/ English Translation
Comfreys and angelicas cover the sandbar, traversing the tracks are their rootlets.
Stained with dust are my socks as I saunter along towards you,
As you your hair bun adjust and frown ease,
As our eyes meet, words cannot express the deep affection they exude.
A light breeze wafts through willow strands, on a ferry I southwards move.
140 -
140 HE Zhu Lyrics to the Cold-hearted
/ English Translation
141 -
141 HE Zhu Lyrics to Sandy Creek Washers
/ English Translation
142 -
142 HE Zhu Lyrics to Sandy Creek Washers
/ English Translation
She holds the fragrant, pastel blooms smilingly as she returns to her privacy,
Behind the window screen she lets down curtains and drapes,
For easterlies tend to wintry become as deeper sinks the night.
143 -
143 HE Zhu Lyrics to the Adagio of the Stony State
/ English Translation
144 -
144 HE Zhu Lyrics to the Melody of Butterflies Chasing Flowers
/ English Translation
How often I have sentimentalised spring, yet spring still comes to its end,
Under willows slight is the shade, that seem to get in the way of flowing threads.
At the horizon by a mount, where a lady named Peach Leaf used to visit on foot,
Where she used to clothes wash, drifting duckweeds are blooming.
All day I new verses long and short chant and mutter,
Through the curtains gleams of light escape, as the Hun strings my heart reveal.
The pitter-patter of the rain is kept out by the wind that sweeps,
Faint is a hazy moon as clouds gather and scatter.
145 -
145 HE Zhu The Heavenly Gate Ballad (On the Emei Pavilion of the Rocky
Isle)
/ English Translation
When the moon comes over the quiet waters with ripples sparkling brightly,
I'd suggest a new rendition of the Warbles on Hun pipes.
In the breeze drifting over the railing,
I can hear distinctly night-hour gongs coming from the direction of the West Shire.
146 -
146 HE Zhu Lyrics to the Melody of a Heavenly Aroma
/ English Translation
A shroud of mist permeates the woods, twilight sinks behind distant mountains,
And evening bell tolls diffuse throughout.
Candles project light onto windows and curtains, crickets urge weavers on,
For all are in dread of the winds and dew of high autumn.
There is one wakeful, pondering lady,
Who must be heeding the sound of garment pressing.
Such resonance can even a tired officer in a far corner reach and upset,
For soon old age shall befall him as he progress towards his life's end.
147 -
147 HE Zhu Lyrics to the Melody of the Xiang Gazer (Spring thoughts)
/ English Translation
148 -
148 HE Zhu Lyrics to the Melody of Green-head Ducks
/ English Translation
Ever since breaking the jade hairpin in half and sealing silvery notes with tears,
Her dancing shoes have been collecting dust.
Many a magnolia canoe have been loaded with parting grief,
As they sail along southern waterways against the setting sun in the west.
I shall remember next year, around this time after the rosebushes have wilted,
I do hope our rendezvous won't be declined by her.
Far and away is the Phoenix City, fragrant and delicate are southern plums,
I shall send her spring, a sprig of plum blossom.
Beyond the Blue Gate, she could only follow the spread of verdure
As she looks for traces of her gentleman.
149 -
149 ZHANG Yuangan Lyrics to the Adagio of the Stony State
/ English Translation
150 -
150 ZHANG Yuangan Lyrics to the Duke of Lanling Melody
/ English Translation
I raise the beaded screen, an early rain has come to a stop on a greyish day.
Outside the balustrade, swaying willows in occasional sunshine bathe,
The verdure onto stairs encroaches contrasting the crimson of peonies.
Easterlies growing jealous of flowers
Blow tender petals off budding sprigs.
I pull out the blind set, the musky scent of the wood makes me heavy-eyed,
I've become experienced in drunkenness that I hesitate to more imbibe.
I recount bygone times in the ancient capital cities of Changan and Luoyang,
How spirited and uninhibited youths indulged in singing and dancing.
Well-equipped horses and polished carriages used to rush the well-dressed,
And sped along the avenues together, then at the palatial garden they'd hold hands,
At the first light of evening they'd have rendezvous to attend,
Who spared a thought on what it would be like to drift from place to place?
151 -
151 YE Mengde Lyrics to the Melody of Congratulations to the Groom
/ English Translation
152 -
152 YE Mengde Lyrics to the Melody Dedicated to Lady Yu (Composed
when drinking with Gan Yu and Cai Qing under an apple tree)
/ English Translation
153 -
153 WANG Zao Lyrics to the Melody of Touching Up Rouged Lips
/ English Translation
154 -
154 LIU Yizhi Lyrics to the Joy of Seeing Migrating Orioles (On the road at
dawn)
/ English Translation
It comes to mind that ever since our parting, she's been weighing on my mind,
Hard to find is a wild goose which could my pining convey.
Layers of viridescent drapes depth create, winding screens scented warmth guides,
What knows them of the drift of a man in his twilight.
Laying blames on the moon and blossoms for all the misery I've come across
Is not something I haven't previously tried.
This kind of mood hopefully gets curtailed,
Yet it tends to come back ever more intensified.
155 -
155 ZHAO Ji Lyrics to the Melody of a Pavilion in the Yan Mountains
(Upon seeing apricot blossoms when heading north)
/ English Translation
I make a few cuts of white voile and overlay them into a few piles,
On which I smooth out blusher and rouge colouring them pastel.
It's a new kind of make-up that dazzles with an infused fragrance,
Paling in comparison are maids of the Palace of the Budding Pearls in heaven.
Yet they shall soon wither away,
Not taking into account the onslaught of heartless windswept rains.
How miserable, I ask of the desolate garden and courtyard,
How brews the mood depressed by the approach of spring's end?
I'd like to send it along with my myriads of parting sorrows and grief,
Yet when have these paired swallows ever been able to our words convey?
Being beneath far-flung skies on distant lands,
With countless mountain peaks and rivers of water in between,
Which direction lies the Palace of the good old days?
How could I not yearn after what once were?
Only ever in dreams when I'd sometimes there return.
Yet it is all losing ground, lately of homecoming I dream no more.
156 -
156 HAN Liu Lyrics to the Melody of the Terrace of the Zenithal Sun (On
New Year's eve)
/ English Translation
157 -
157 LI Bing Lyrics to the Han Palace's Spring Melody
/ English Translation
158 -
158 CHEN Yuyi - Lyrics to the Linjiang Narcissi
/ English Translation
Loudly I recite the Chu Verses to pass the afternoon of summer solstice,
Among remote corners of the world I roam as seasons hurry along.
Pomegranate blossoms are no comparison to a whirling dress in red,
Though no one understands what it means to convey,
At the end of the dance there comes a breeze to curtains raise.
There are myriads of things I'd like to do yet I've become senile,
East of the parapet wild cottons bloom brightly.
I can hold my liquor as well as I could last year,
I stir the water beneath the bridge,
Hoping tonight it can the Xiang region reach.
159 -
159 CHEN Yuyi Lyrics to the Linjiang Narcissi (A night visit to a small
pavilion reminiscing times spent in the Luo region)
/ English Translation
In the bygone era how they used to drink on the Midday Bridge,
Among them sat many a fearless and gallant man.
Water runs in long channels that reflect the moon in silence,
Among sparse shadows of apricot blossoms,
I reed play till daylight dawns.
160 -
160 CAI Shen Lyrics to the Su Wu Adagio
/ English Translation
Wild geese land on the sandbar, mist shrouds over the cold river water,
No longer blaring is the sound of bugles from the ancient fort.
Faint is the blue mountains, decayed have rustling leaves,
In the sky hover evening crows here and there still.
The upstairs basks in twilight,
In sight are sails that must have travelled thousands of leagues to home return,
Late it gets as so much time has gone by.
I gaze at the dusky clouds in the sky, where now resides the lovely lady?
My dreaming soul has distanced itself far and away.
I reminisce about where I've been behind red doors and deep within an estate,
Along petal-paved garden paths, I spontaneously think of her florid face.
Even if I'd taken up a whole roll of silk to a letter write
And expressed my lament through golden strings,
Hard to compose is my bitterness at heart.
Parted are our parting sorrows, in the company of wine
I feel miserable, I've leaned against every balustrade of this high-rise.
Although it's getting late, I linger on, hoping to rely on westerlies
To blow dry my teary eyes.
161 -
161 CAI Shen Lyrics to the Melody of Green Willow Sprigs
/ English Translation
162 -
162 ZHOU Zizhi Lyrics to the Melody of a Partridge-filled Sky
/ English Translation
I once tuned the fine zither and stirred the precious incense burner,
Then we sang together the Partridge verse.
Tonight in windswept rain on the upper level of the west chamber
I need not listen to arias to be flowing with tears.
163 -
163 ZHOU Zizhi Lyrics to the Melody of Walking on Grass
/ English Translation
Through the sunset fly wild geese, along the shores mist shrouds the verdure,
By now myriads of melancholy sentiments have mushroomed.
Ponder not over what tomorrow shall bring,
For there is still tonight to get through!
164 -
164 LI Jia Lyrics to Spring of the Royal Terrace
/ English Translation
Viridescent is the verdure, to the south spread lush and luxuriant fields.
Pleasant willow strands and whirling petals seem to know how we feel,
How we tend to feeble become in the presence of spring melancholy.
I'm reminded of a gorgeous lady who used to go on outings with me,
We'd sightsee together in the capital on the day of the Cold Fare.
Here and now at a remote corner greeting spring,
In this vast world I'm a visitor.
165 -
165 LI Jia Lyrics to Thinking of an Aristocrat
/ English Translation
The sight of lush and luxuriant verdure reminds me of your noble self,
Beyond the willows buildings stand tall grieving souls,
And unbearable to the ears are cuckoos' warbles in a row.
Dusk approaches,
As rain blows on pear blossoms, tightly shut are doors.
166 -
166 WANQI (MUQI) Yong Lyrics to the Three Terraces (Composed officially
for the day of Spring Equinox)
/ English Translation
Early in the night over the pear blossoms rises the moon,
There stand cheery-apple trees half drenched in rain.
Spring of the royal gardens cannot refrain from crossing the blue gates,
In the moat the water swells flowing into the southern waterways.
Calm are easterlies, off willows hang golden strands,
The imperial palatial edifices in the distance stand clear of smoke or mist.
This is a affluent age with much joy in the court and throughout the empire,
On the nine crossroads resonate the drumming and flute play of peaceful times.
167 -
167 XU Shen Lyrics to the Melody of a Young Pagan God
/ English Translation
168 -
168 TIAN Wei Lyrics to the Adagio of the River God
/ English Translation
169 -
169 CAO Zu Lyrics to the Melody of the Mount Mo Creek (On plum
blossoms)
/ English Translation
Cleansed of make-up is her true look, without the help of powder and rouge.
Beyond the grove a branch of bamboo extends,
I think of her in this cold weather at sunset.
Twilight falls over the courtyard, I wonder from where comes a faint scent,
A light breeze wafts through, as snow takes its fall,
What more could be said of the riverside walk?
The moon's outline is tinged with shadow, empty feels my dreaming soul.
When fruits ripens,
There shall shower a drizzle pristine and fine.
I've been self-disciplined all my life, casting away emotional worries,
Thin and pallid I've become like Shen Yue of Dongyang,
I'd like to know whether blossoms have taken any notice?
170 -
170 LI Yu Lyrics to the Melody of Congratulations to the Groom
/ English Translation
171 -
171 LIAO Shimei Lyrics to the Swaying Red of a Candle Flame (An
inscription for the House of Floating Clouds in Anlu County)
/ English Translation
172 -
172 L Binlao Lyrics to the Cold-hearted
/ English Translation
173 -
173 CHA Chi Lyrics to the Melody of Beyond Blue Skies
/ English Translation
174 -
174 KONG Yi Lyrics to the Melody of Southern Waters
/ English Translation
175 -
175 YUE Fei Lyrics to the Melody of a River of Blossoms
/ English Translation
176 -
176 ZHANG Lun Lyrics to the Swaying Red of a Candle Flame (Yearning
under the first moon of the year)
/ English Translation
Into the sky soars the twin towers guarding the main gate to the palace,
There within stands the twelve-storey Phoenix Tower in the spring chill.
At the time of last year's Festival of the First Full Moon,
There I was at the emperor's service and present at the banquet.
In the grand hall raised were all beaded screens,
There gathered a group of ladies who had descended from their heavenly abode.
In the sky spread auspicious rainbow clouds,
Underneath glimmer candle lights, as orchestral music rise to heaven reach.
177 -
177 CHENG Gai Lyrics to the Water Dragon Chant
/ English Translation
178 -
178 ZHANG Xiaoxiang Lyrics to the First Melody of the Western Six
States
/ English Translation
179 -
179 ZHANG Xiaoxiang Lyrics to Remembering Your Charm
/ English Translation
I should bear in mind that I've spent years in the southern coastal states,
Where I disciplined myself to uphold my integrity and courage.
Short and thin is my hair, and my sleeves are light and insubstantial,
Nonetheless steady I row in a vast billowing sea.
For spirits I shall drink from the West River, for a cup there is the Big Dipper,
And I shall treat Nature as my guest.
I drum against the the boat and loud I sing
Losing track of what day today is.
180 -
180 HAN Yuanji Lyrics to the First Melody of the Western Six States (On
peach blossoms)
/ English Translation
181 -
181 HAN Yuanji Lyrics to the Melody of an Approaching Joyous Event
/ English Translation
182 -
182 YUAN Quhua Lyrics to the Melody of an Auspicious Crane-riding
Immortal
/ English Translation
183 -
183 YUAN Quhua Lyrics to the Melody of the Sword Approaches
/ English Translation
At night comes rain, then there also arrive easterlies to make it stop.
The cherry-apple tree is at its most charming as they on branches remain.
Quiet is the garden as I listen closely to the warbles of orioles and swallows,
That sound just like my sadness, as I worry that spring would pass away.
It's a lovely tree, the sun casts the midday shade under its verdurous foliage.
Layers of drapes have not yet been raised, suddenly I wake
In loneliness to the sight of catkins in the wind.
On the quiet I shed a few tears into the misty waves,
Then I saw a few acquaintances by the shore,
They tell me how they've withered of late.
I've written many a letter offering various greetings,
Yet I cannot anything substantial write.
Broken-hearted I am at sunset that has thousands of peaks under twilight.
184 -
184 YUAN Quhua Lyrics to the Melody of Young Master An
/ English Translation
185 -
185 LU Song Lyrics to the Melody of an Auspicious Crane-riding
Immortal
/ English Translation
186 -
186 LU Song Lyrics to the Melody of Divining Numbers (Singing praises of
plum blossoms)
/ English Translation
187 -
187 LU You Lyrics to a Fishermen's Melody (Addressed to Zhonggao)
/ English Translation
As I look towards the east, where lies home on the shady side of a mountain?
Three thousands miles and much more is the distance in between,
Though possibly in vain, I've written for home a letter that fully uses every sheet
Accompanied by flowing tears,
Yet when I do a reply receive, it shall be sometime next year.
188 -
188 CHEN Liang Lyrics to the Water Dragon Chant
/ English Translation
189 -
189 FAN Chengda Lyrics to Thinking of a Young Lady of Qin
/ English Translation
Through the mist the lapse of time the timepiece in the form of young dragon chokes.
Drapes sway in the the dark as the wick of the lamp burns out.
As the wick of the lamp burns out, a transient vernal dream comes to a close,
I wake to an expansive sky on the Yangtze's south.
190 -
190 FAN Chengda Lyrics to the Melody of Enchanting Eyes (Along the way
to the Duckweed County, suddenly the day turns clear, lying in the carriage I
was, rather sleepy I was, so I stopped briefly by some willows next to a pond.)
/ English Translation
Mild and warm is sunshine that falls on purple mist that floats,
On a beautiful, cosy day I take off my leather coat.
This weather makes me heavy-eyed, flowery fragrances intoxicates,
Feeling as if I'm ready for a nap after a drink of Head-propping Wine.
191 -
191 FAN Chengda Lyrics to the Melody of a Frosty Sky at the Crack of
Dawn
/ English Translation
Clear is the evening as the breeze eases, overnight lapse vernal feelings.
Quiet is the sky and sparse are blossoms that are lovely and comely,
Clouds float by, blooms appear like snow on sprigs.
192 -
192 CAI Youxue - Lyrics to the Melody of an Approaching Joyous Event
/ English Translation
There's not a worry about not coming across spring next year,
Yet I keep in mind that charming spring could feeble be.
Sleep not in front a lantern,
Do allow tonight to stay on and linger.
193 -
193 XIN Qiji Lyrics to the Melody of Congratulations to the Groom
(Farewells to younger brother Maojia who ranked twelfth)
/ English Translation
From trees comes the sound that call forth spring from cuckoos,
Furthermore when partridges have stopped their coo,
Cuckoos intensify their trills.
When their have cried away spring exhausting their voice,
Regretfully wilted have all blossoms.
Perhaps that is still no comparison to partings in the world,
For once she played pipa on horseback as she headed towards the dark border,
Then there was the Long Gate from where fragrant carriages left the palace.
And swallows once flew by to a returning concubine escort.
194 -
194 XIN Qiji Lyrics to the Melody of Congratulations to the Groom (An
ode to pipa)
/ English Translation
The phoenix tail of Lady Yang's pipa and her pick made of scented dragon wood
Since the Kaiyuan years' ban on the playing of the the Feather Dress melody
Have survived heaven knows how many years of seasons and moons.
Faring the worst were those travellers at the Xunyang wharf,
Though their ferry had always been ready to depart.
There was Zhaojun's journey over the border under ochre clouds in the snow.
On horseback she left with her melancholy that five thousands miles grow,
In the direction of the Morning Glory Hall, she saw not even a wild goose,
The strings may my heart comprehend, yet hard to convey are my sorrows.
195 -
195 XIN Qiji Lyrics to Remembering Your Charm (An inscription for a village
wall in the County of Eastward Flow)
/ English Translation
196 -
196 XIN Qiji Lyrics to the Melody of Spring in the Han Palace (On the first
day of spring)
/ English Translation
197 -
197 XIN Qiji Lyrics to the Water Dragon Chant (On mounting the Pavilion of
Delight in Jiankang)
/ English Translation
198 -
198 XIN Qiji Lyrics to the Melody of Fishing with Bare Hands (In the Jihai
year of Chunxi I am to travel from Hubei to Hunan by water, on a pavilion on a
hill in the company of Officer Wang Zhengzhi I this compose.)
/ English Translation
The tale of the Long Gate must have yet another impediment caused,
All because someone was jealous of her delicate and thin brows.
Although one could spend a thousand gold nuggets for Xiangru prose,
Who is there to listen to such love and affection? Dance and twirl not!
Have you not realised that Lady Yang and Flitting Swallow have dust become.
The most bitter is melancholy that fester in idleness.
I shouldn't lean against a balustrade up on high, the inclining sun twilight casts
Over mist-shrouded willows rendering a heartbreaking landscape.
199 -
199 XIN Qiji Lyrics to the Melody of Forever in Happiness (Reminiscing the
bygone days on the Beigu Pavilion at the capital's entrance)
/ English Translation
200 -
200 XIN Qiji Lyrics to the Magnolia Adagio (On seeing off Fan Cui in Chuzhou)
/ English Translation
Already in your army uniform, ready you are to have an audience with the emperor,
For His Majesty admire and respect virtuous and wise characters.
I remember once in the middle of the night,
I was detained to edits draft as His Majesty decided over affairs at the border.
When in the capital, if old acquaintances ask about me,
You can tell them that I've been drinking to drown my depressed soul.
Often I see wild geese taking their fall from autumn skies,
In my drunkenness I seem to hear the sound of a vibrating bow.
201 -
201 XIN Qiji Lyrics to the Melody of By the Honourable Terrace of The
Zhus (In late spring)
/ English Translation
I glance sideways, thinking perhaps I should use flowers to divine a return date,
Yet it involves so much counting after I've just managed to pin back my hair.
Behind the bed curtains lights grow faint as I sob and mumble in my dream.
It is spring that brings along troubling thoughts,
Yet where has spring itself disappeared to?
It just doesn't understand that it should take away with it all the worries too.
202 -
202 XIN Qiji Lyrics to the Melody of Green Jadeite Bowl (On the first night
of a new year)
/ English Translation
203 -
203 XIN Qiji Lyrics to the Melody of a Partridge-filled Sky (Written by the
Lake of Geese after recovering from an illness)
/ English Translation
Reclining on a pillow and a mat in my lodge by the creek, autumn approaches with a chill,
Close to the water is a patch of cloud that scatters as evening arrives.
Lotus flowers blooming red gather close as though they are tipsy,
Quiet are white geese for they must be steeped in melancholy.
Some once outlandish writings composed, while others a pretty pavilion built,
Every hill and every ravine can romantic and delightful appear.
I know not how my health has withered,
Though of late I've been feeling too lethargic to set foot upstairs.
204 -
204 XIN Qiji Lyrics to the Bodhisattva Melody (Written by the Jagged Cliff in
Jiangxi)
/ English Translation
205 -
205 JIANG Kui - Lyrics to the Melody of Touching Up Rouged Lips (Written
in the summer of the year of Dingwei when passing through Wusong)
/ English Translation
206 -
206 JIANG Kui - Lyrics to the Melody of a Partridge-filled Sky (I dreamt of
something on the first night of a new year.)
/ English Translation
207 -
207 JIANG Kui Lyrics to the Melody of Walking on Grass (I've come
eastwards from Mian. I arrived in Jingling on the first day of Dingwei, I had a
dream on the river and thus I this wrote.)
/ English Translation
The letters I've sent since our parting and the clothes I made for you when we parted,
Carry my drifting soul that follows you as you a long journey embark on.
At River Huai's south, bright is the moonlight that cools myriads of mountains,
And there goes obscure darkness that no one cares about.
208 -
208 JIANG Kui Lyrics to the Melody of Celebrating Palatial Spring
(Prologue omitted)
/ English Translation
209 -
209 JIANG Kui Lyrics to the Melody of Heavenly Joy (Prologue omitted)
/ English Translation
There was Yu's soliloquy reciting his lament in the Yangtze's south,
The whispers I hear make this place seem ever more desolate now.
Bronze door rings moist with dew and the stone well covered in mosses
Are where I hear crickets hum and moan.
Their grieving tone sound like sobs,
Like those of a pining, wakeful woman, who'd rise to weaving continue.
She'd sing the melody of the Ranging Hills,
What sentiments is she feeling alone at night in the chill?
210 -
210 JIANG Kui Lyrics to the Melody of a Celestial Pipa Player (Prologue
omitted)
/ English Translation
The time has come again for candles in the palace to be lighted,
I can't help but dwell in melancholy as seasons rush to each other replace.
I'd like to dispose off a heart full of pining
In amongst fallen pods of elm trees on the deserted front stairs.
Millions of willow strands that can crows keep out of sight
Have been fluttering and whirling like drifting snow for a toast.
I'd like to venture westwards through the Sun Gate,
So here of my old acquaintances I shall my leave take.
211 -
211 JIANG Kui Lyrics to the Melody of Eight Stops (On seeing off Hu Dehua
in the central Xiang)
/ English Translation
Lotus flowers pollen scatter, phoenix trees their remaining thinning green sway,
In the garden a drizzle has come to a stop.
In idleness I lose myself in staring at my own shadow,
Then I see fireflies hovering in the darkness by the bamboo fence,
While on mossy stairs crickets interrupt one another's pathetic chirps.
To bid you farewell, again I set foot on the westwards trail,
Yet is there anyone on the water who'd for us the pipa play?
The most pitiful of this stretch of landscape
Is left for the cuckoos to cry over always.
212 -
212 JIANG Kui Lyrics to Remembering Your Charm (Prologue omitted)
/ English Translation
213 -
213 JIANG Kui The Yangzhou Adagio (Prologue omitted)
/ English Translation
214 -
214 JIANG Kui The Adagio of Lamenting Along a Gallery (Prologue omitted)
/ English Translation
215 -
215 JIANG Kui Pale and Yellowing Willows (Prologue omitted)
/ English Translation
From the desolate castle comes the sound of bugle to break the day,
That blares through the drooping willows of streets and alleyways.
On the horse I'm thinly dressed feeling the chill that grieves me.
Before my eyes spread light yellow and fresh green,
That I'd come to known well from my days in the south of the Yangtze.
Right now everywhere is quiet and still, tomorrow returns the Cold Fare Day.
I've deliberately brought along some spirits to this cottage by the bridge,
I was afraid that the pear blossoms might have given way to autumn shades.
There flit swallows that have returned asking where has spring moved on to?
There is only the pond that ever viridescent remains.
216 -
216 JIANG Kui Lyrics to the Melody of an Obscure Scent (Prologue
omitted)
/ English Translation
217 -
217 JIANG Kui Lyrics to the Melody of Scattered Light and Shade
/ English Translation
218 -
218 JIANG Kui A Recital of the Magnificent Edifice (Prologue omitted)
/ English Translation
219 -
219 JIANG Kui Lyrics to the Melody of Sky-shading Apricot Blossoms
(Prologue omitted)
/ English Translation
Willow strands droop low to stir the pond with mandarin ducks,
It reminds me of a lady called Peach Leaf who once asked to cross the river here.
I shall be casting my melancholy eyes to follow the spring breeze,
As we are about to part, I lean against the paddle to linger a little longer.
Sailing pass Jinling, I pass by many soft spoken ladies and their dancing figures.
I guess tides know best that most toilsome is our obligation to life endure.
The verdure spreads to the entire sandbar cover leaving no way home,
In the sunset, I steer the boat along, but where towards?
220 -
220 JIANG KUI Lyrics to the Melody of a Red Corolla (Prologue omitted)
/ English Translation
At the back of this town, there are a few mature plum trees,
They haven't fully blossomed for use as hairpins.
The surface of the pond has iced over, by the walls snow has piled waist high,
Heavy are the clouds that are growing heavier still.
Green vines traverse paths in bamboo groves at ease,
As laughters approach, fowls resting on the sand take off startled.
These wild woods and springs that have long been here,
And terraces and halls of bygone eras call to me to them mount and visit.
I've ventured to the south and to the north, yet whatever for?
Now I have come to roam the waters of Chu under the clouds of Xiang,
Everywhere I look it grieves me.
Stuck on crimson doors are figures of roosters on January the seventh,
And there are gilded platters of swallows to spring greet,
Evoking sentimental sighs over the passage of time.
I remember the day when we had a nice gathering in the west chamber,
There were drooping willows swaying millions of golden strands.
By the time I there return on the saddle,
I'm afraid spring would probably have long vanished.
221 -
221 JIANG Kui Interlude No. One to the Rainbow Robe Melody (Prologue
omitted)
/ English Translation
Deep must have been the silence, accompanied by crickets' disorderly chirps
That disturbed Yu Xin's spirit causing his melancholy to multiply and complicate.
I dwell in memories of my youth and those roaming days,
Music from a flute used to a dividing range cross,
And peaceful was life by the willows in the countryside.
Yet I've heard no more of those fallen blossoms,
Hushed is the murmur of the flowing water that let go its lucid green.
For so long I've been adrift, yet what else is there to prompt me
To lie drunk by a little burner used for warming up spirits?
222 -
222 ZHANG Liangneng Lyrics to the Melody of Overlapping Hills
/ English Translation
In the shade of willows and in the presence of bright blossoms long dwells spring,
Those crimson peonies by the balustrade have budded and ready to bloom.
Light is the rain and soft the breeze as birds chirp and twitter away,
On a day that arrives overcast, carrying a shade of grey.
223 -
223 LIU Guo Lyrics to a Sugary Chant (Prologue omitted)
/ English Translation
224 -
224 YAN Ren Magnolia Lyrics
/ English Translation
Sentiments grow provoking regrets when my hair becomes wispy and short,
As I dwell in thoughts of you, my robes seem loose as I thin and pallid become.
The precious mirror box offers reflections clear as moonlight that deceive not,
You can have a look for yourself on your return tomorrow.
225 -
225 YU Guobao Lyrics to the Melody of Winds Soughing Through Pines
/ English Translation
A fine day it was, warm breezes wafted for miles along the way,
Ladies took to pinning flowers to their head tipping their hair.
Adorned cruise vessels set sail carrying spring away,
Cheerful sentiments lingered over the misty waters of the lake.
Tomorrow I shall there return with what remains of my intoxication
To seek her out along the trails.
226 -
226 ZHANG Zi Lyrics to the Melody of a Garden Full of Blossoms
/ English Translation
Lofty phoenix trees washing in moonlight and grasses moist with dew
Depict late autumn that surrounds the House of Precious Hairpins.
Like wild flowers blooming in the green, fireflies flit by the wall.
In the still of the night I hear a intermittent dreary noise,
There is little change to the notes that are doleful and dismal.
Vying for a partner, it eagerly murmurs and whirs,
Urging wholeheartedly for a new day to dawn.
I remember when I was little, I'd carry a lantern to water its hole,
Then I'd tiptoe and follow its sound.
I'd brush by flowers as I search by myself for its whereabouts.
Then I'd bring it to the front of the hall for fighting games,
Although small was our place, I had a delicate showy cage.
I shall say no more, its hum from a groove under my bed
Accompanies my lonely sigh on this chilly night.
227 -
227 ZHANG Zi Lyrics to the Melody of a Pavilion in the Yan Mountains
/ English Translation
228 -
228 SHI Dazu Lyrics to the Fragrance of Damask (Ode to Spring Rain)
/ English Translation
Cold is the air that flowers are shivering in, smoky the mist that willows shrouds,
Hundreds of miles have been stealthily urging along the passage of spring.
Grey and gloomy is the atmosphere throughout the day,
Dwelling in melancholy I thought of taking off but I stayed on.
For the fear of heavy moist pollen, butterflies spend the night in the West Court,
For the love of moist soil, swallows make their return to the southern waterways.
Yet rain is most annoying when it interferes with a romantic rendezvous,
Stopping an adorned coach from driving down the trail of the Hills of Du.
229 -
229 SHI Dazu Lyrics to Pairs of Swallows (Ode to Swallows)
/ English Translation
Fragrant is the path, muddy the soil under the grass soaked in rain.
They race one another close to the ground, rivalling one another's grace.
From the building in red I come home late,
Seeing plenty of shady willows and blossoms along the way.
Those swallows must be resting comfortably among flowery scents,
Forgetting that there is someone wistful at the world's end.
Grief and frowns have ruined her teal, delicate brows,
Day after day in solitude her thoughts drift beyond the decorated balustrade.
230 -
230 SHI Dazu The First Bloom in Easterlies (On spring snow)
/ English Translation
Spring snow swiftly drifts to the heart of orchids and onto grass blades,
While easterlies attempt to intervene and fresh warmth provide.
Somehow I doubt there'd be much left
Of the coolness that lingers from the cold of dusk.
Their whirring in the sky is caught in the mirror,
Posing their soft and flexible poise and figure.
I guess at home they probably don't have the screens raised,
Inevitably missing out on a pair of swallows that abruptly there return.
Green has not yet fully spread, yet willows have begun to white buds show.
Almost out of bloom are peach trees, already blooming are apricot blossoms.
I recall an old acquaintance from a previous trip to a mountain's shady side,
We agreed on visiting the garden there another time.
Pots that have cooled need to be fired up for ironing,
So I take a break from pulling needles that spring clothes stitch.
I'm afraid if I wear my embroidered shoes to vegetables pick,
I might drifting snow encounter on the Ba Bridge.
231 -
231 SHI Dazu Lyrics to the Joy of Seeing Migrating Orioles
/ English Translation
The moon seems to ripple with drops of ray, close to heaven is its clarity,
Unstained by the earthly.
Everywhere eyes can see gather colourful lanterns and silvery silk ribbons,
Like the zodiac's starry radiance.
I regret that impoverished are my desire for poetry and spirits,
Letting down much of spring's scenery.
The most bored of all are those accompanying scented candles
That follow many a wild and eccentric tourist.
Places I've been are scattered in memory, Master Du had long become history,
I can hardly bear to hear the music of reed blowing in easterlies.
Dim is the lamp in the Willow Garden, by the Plum Blossom Hall snow piles,
Who have I to share my heart over fresh spring wine?
What I have with an old flame still hasn't come to fruition,
So I shall follow what I did once and travel wide.
Except I'm afraid that I might cause her grief on wintry nights,
Who'd stare through the screen of her windows as she pines.
232 -
232 SHI Dazu Lyrics to the Melody of Three Lovely Ladies
/ English Translation
As hazy light reflects off colourful roof tiles that are glazed,
Visible on a sunny day are breezes along the eaves carrying a drizzle of catkins.
I lay my zither across the bed, recalling where tear trails that dust replace
When I used to these strings play along its phoenix neck.
I venture wearily beyond the bedchamber drapes,
Lately I've often dreamed of a nobleman and his stallion.
I dare not say this is me pining, yet when I adjust my skirt by myself,
I'm dismayed by a narrowing waist.
233 -
233 SHI Dazu Lyrics to the Melody of an Autumn Day after Rain
/ English Translation
Grey and gloomy is the river, in sight are shrivelled willows and withered lotuses
Sharing with me shades of autumn.
This neglected chamber braves the cold first, beyond worn screens is a dusky sky,
A flight of wild geese on their journey forceful winds loathe.
Letters from home,
How I wish they could appear before my eyes like the blue southern mountains.
I think of a bygone era,
Who was it that never returned from enjoying perch delicacies of the south?
234 -
234 SHI Dazu Lyrics to the Melody of Night-blooming Silk Trees
/ English Translation
Willows lock in the spirit of orioles, among flowers swirl butterflies' reveries,
Caught up in Pan An's melancholy I must have been.
Before I a light robe don,
I've become absorbed in concealing tears and their trails.
As I bygones recall, my fear of the passage of time grows,
Spring has long arrived to visit bringing a fine drizzle to the pond.
At the scenery I gaze, half abloom are the trees of plum,
Very much like Lady Xu's half-finished make-up.
235 -
235 SHI Dazu Lyrics to the Melody of Green Butterflies
/ English Translation
The evening rain hasn't struck down any trees in the palace,
On their pitiful, sparse leaves settle cicadas that in the cold linger.
Short is the season that has autumn turned into,
Causing any mood to verses compose to fall melancholic.
Night-time longer extends, it's hard to refrain the soul from dreaming away,
I'm growing old as the scenery is turning cold.
I long for the joy of seclusion, where wild flowers bloom by the garden's brick well,
And spiders cobwebs weave in the corners of its rails.
236 -
236 SHI Dazu Lyrics to the Melody of Eight Stops
/ English Translation
A river in autumn carrying rain flows its water pass the chilly sand,
From a loft I look out in my melancholy solitude.
Amid the mist the rustle of straw capes disturbs my poetic thoughts,
And there is also the frantic flitting of gulls that interrupts,
Making nice lines hard to come up with.
Coldly I look at the picturesque scenery before me,
I recognise on the other shore a faint outline of cottages.
Half of which must be a village of fishermen and woodsmen,
As twilight approaches they rush to bamboos set alight.
237 -
237 LIU Kezhuang Lyrics to the Raw Haws Melody
/ English Translation
238 -
238 LIU Kezhuang Lyrics to the Melody of Congratulations to the Groom
(On the fifth of lunar May)
/ English Translation
239 -
239 LIU Kezhuang Lyrics to the Melody of Congratulations to the Groom
(On the ninth)
/ English Translation
240 -
240 LIU Kezhuang Magnolia Lyrics
/ English Translation
Year after year my horse gallops along the streets of Changan City,
As I take an inn for home making home seem like an inn.
Shelling out coins for spirits, yet how little does that cost a day?
Under candlelight I'd gamble away nights catching no sleep.
241 -
241 LU Zugao Lyrics to the Melody of a River Town
/ English Translation
I raise the drapes at the front of the chamber to reveal a new fine day,
I put out the light of the lantern, the chill of morning lingers.
The fragrance of scattered powder drifts, day after day I grieve among them.
I recount to myself the decade that I'd spent in and around the West Lake,
How often did I really have the company of a pretty maid?
242 -
242 LU Zugao Lyrics to the Melody of a Banquet at the Town of Clarity
/ English Translation
243 -
243 FAN Fang Lyrics to a Southern Country Melody (An inscription for a
brothel in the County of Southern Swords)
/ English Translation
244 -
244 LU Rui Lyrics to the Melody of an Auspicious Crane-riding Immortal
/ English Translation
I feel extremely alone, I still bear in mind our vows and oaths,
I aimed for a soaring future like a crane, leaving an open end to our rendezvous.
My attempt to our affections sever
Has only caused even more regrets over time.
Why does heaven allow flitting pairs of swallows
To dash in the glow that powder the remains of the day?
Looking into a mirror we could our wistful thoughts relay,
To see who has withered away?
245 -
245 XIAO Tailai Lyrics to the Melody of a Frosty Sky at the Crack of
Dawn
/ English Translation
As heavy snow drifts and falls, I suffer the torture of the wintry cold.
Born lean and tough is my saving grace,
Utterly fearless I am of bugles that blare without a break.
246 -
246 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of Crossing a River of Clouds (On
the spring equinox day at the West Lake)
/ English Translation
247 -
247 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of Night-blooming Silk Trees
(While sailing along the White Crane River towards the capital, I moored at
Fengmeng and grew sentimental.)
/ English Translation
248 -
248 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of Drifting Frosty Leaves (On the
Double Ninth)
/ English Translation
Cleaving through the haze is the parting sorrow that cuts my heart,
The setting sun conceals itself and its glow behind frosted trees.
I water the chrysanthemums with half a teapot of autumn spray,
Raising a scent that scatters after a windswept rain from the west.
I let loose the bridle to allow the horse to dash like a bird,
Yet bleak is the terrace, who'd come hither to bygones mourn?
I recall passing through the mountain range's south when I was tipsy,
Among colourful fans came sobs of cicadas in the cold that put me to sleep,
Paying no attention to the ladies who waited on me.
249 -
249 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of a Banquet at the Bright City
(Cherry apple trees with intertwining boughs)
/ English Translation
250 -
250 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of Heavenly Joy
/ English Translation
Misty waves pile towards the western hills and the Peach Leaves Wharf,
I ride the tail of the tide with ten years of heartbreak.
Again I those willows pluck, telling the agile gulls of my parting sorrows,
Alone I lean over the lofty pavilion looking at what has become a thing of the past.
A sudden cold draught blows, over the sand mist floats, beyond which sails pass
In the twilight before a range of verdant hills.
Then there is the splashing river water
To a mirror of autumn colours provide and my withered look reflect.
251 -
251 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of Overflowing Blossoms (Guo
Xidao offered daffodils as a gift and asked for a composition.)
/ English Translation
Graceful is her delicate bloom, bright is her colour with white dimples,
Yellow like bees are her filaments that a faint halo resemble.
Verdant and vivid leaves by her side her beauty complement.
Last night chilly was the courtyard, under the moon I her bloom met,
In my deep sleep I worried about her suffering the force of winds.
While my heart had yet to recover from being fretful,
The day had dawned, and there was the pot green and fresh,
I realised that true was the portent of a blooming dream.
The spirit of the Goddess of River Xiang pervades this remote green,
Her graceful waves lead to ancient sandy shores and clouds where regrets heap.
In the shadow of rock piles,
Her faint fragrance scatters, the charm of plum blossoms pales in the chill.
Next to the incense burner, twirls of its scent towards pillows drift,
I seem to see her with her beautiful hair let down.
I should call for company to she admire in the Hall of the Magnificently Pure Mere,
With stacks of cups filled to their brim.
252 -
252 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of Sandy Creek Washers
/ English Translation
Flowers blossom in clusters at the front, behind the doors she dwells in an old dream,
Silent is the sunset as swallows return with melancholy,
She works her delicate hands to draw the drapes from hooks and clips.
253 -
253 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of Sandy Creek Washers
/ English Translation
The mirror-like rippling water surface reflects every trace of the chill,
There she is by the water as if she's angling for a crescent,
Moonlight washes over the pavilion by the pond as the night like autumn feels.
254 -
254 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of Touching Up Rouged Lips (The
lantern night has just cleared up.)
/ English Translation
255 -
255 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of By the Honourable Terrace of
The Zhus (The coming of spring on New Year's eve)
/ English Translation
These wine cups are from before, her hands used to bright mandarins open,
Her affections still touch somewhere deep within.
In a reverie I return to the lake shore, only to lose my way in its mirror.
Have mercy on the land of Wu over which drift countless speckles of frost,
Where wintriness eases not,
Against them, like rain plum blossoms fall.
256 -
256 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of By the Honourable Terrace of
The Zhus (Sightseeing at the garden ruins by the Turtle Creek as a traveller)
/ English Translation
I idle away the daytime, why do the heavens seem hard on spring,
Turning a slight overcast into a shower?
Along the gallery spreads sap green, riding the wind is my homecoming dream.
I become sentimental over the shadows of blossoms by the balustrade at home,
Where along the paths warble orioles,
They bring me to suddenly stand still and brood, turning me into a stone.
257 -
257 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Fragrance of Bathing in Orchids (On the
Double Fifth in Huai'an)
/ English Translation
Around her wrist wrapped rainbow silk strands, ornate cut-outs draped over her hair,
Concealed behind azure silk curtains she slept.
With a silver carafe in an open courtyard, she sang by the window with cloudy inlays,
The past that was my youth is becoming faint.
Remember how I once wrote on her red dress,
It breaks my heart to think that long faded have those florid characters on scarlet.
Dreaming in May, long gone are my years of prime,
Like soft sweet flag leaves on the sandbar I am frail.
258 -
258 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of Winds Soughing Through Pines
/ English Translation
I listen to the wind and I listen to the rain, passing away the day of vernal equinox,
Grasses once wilted have grown thick to bury petals of blossoms.
Before the building among green foliage the path comes to a fork,
Every strand of willow is an inch of tender heart.
In the chill of spring I was overwhelmed by what I had drunk,
On top of which I had a dream before I woke to a morning and orioles' warbles.
259 -
259 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Oriole Warbles Prelude (Prologue omitted)
/ English Translation
For a decade I lived by the West Lake, to the willows I'd have my horse tied,
When the dust was light and the mist mild.
Then I'd follow the drifting red up a creek that seem so heavenly,
For there was a lovely maid who secretly wrote to me of her affections.
Next to a silver candle holder generous was spring and contrived seemed dreams,
There was singing and dancing in splendid clothes as red candle wax dripped.
Deserted is the embankment at dusk, let's hand it over to twilight,
Returning it to gulls and egrets.
Secluded orchids wilt apace, around which pollia clusters continue to spread,
Here I am still roaming this watery region.
Ever since I left, I've not heard from the six bridges of the Lake,
Gone has the past like withered flowers, buried is the verdure along with its scent,
That have endured many storms and their rage.
The glisten of ripples jealously show, distant hills have the look of bashful brows,
Lamps from fishing boats cast shadows on those inns by the river in spring.
Remember when we once crossed the Wharf of Peach Leaves with stubby oars,
It is as if I am back at the red-light house.
At our parting I wrote a poem on the shabby wall,
And our tears and ink fell bleakly onto the dusty ground.
I look out from a lofty pavilion into the distance, it's verdurous all the way,
I lament over my sideburns that are turning grey.
I secretly check up on myself, traces of laughters and tears of sorrow
Remain visible on my handkerchief made of raw silk.
A lost phoenix with its wings drawn cares not to dance to a broken mirror.
I only wish to a letter write diligently to express in full all my regrets and grief
For a wild goose to carry away across broad waters and through clouds in the azure.
Long is my longing that I can only press onto the zither's frets.
A heart has been broken to pieces over thousands of miles south of the Yangtze,
I could the tune of Raise a Soul play again, yet is there any wounded spirit?
260 -
260 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Adagio of Cherishing Yellow Blooms
(Prologue omitted)
/ English Translation
By a shore off the Wu waters I bid a guest farewell, frostily wintry is the night,
By a long-span bridge maple leaves take their fall.
We gaze at the sky but see not its boundary, the town behind us fades,
We pass by gloomy pavilions, with regret we let the water carry us further away.
The sight of withering verdant patches and wilting red outfits
Deepens melancholy that brings a deep frown to the brows.
This is reminiscent of Shen Yue's thinning waist in those days,
On a magnolia canoe he idled away.
261 - ()
261 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of the Terrace of the Zenithal
Sun (The falling of plum blossoms)
/ English Translation
Traces of powder and make-up have fallen with the shadows of heavenly clouds,
In the wild waters of the deserted bay there is no one around.
Buried under ancient piles of rocks are remains of a fragrant nature,
Golden sands latch onto bones in chains.
It's not the playing of a flute coming from the South Tower that I detest,
I hate the morning breeze that reminds me of the great dividing range.
Being a vagabond half of my life, here in the garden at twilight,
Cold is the moon over the balustrade.
In the Long Life Palace she attends to her gloomy look in the mirror in vain,
Is there anyone still applying the plum bloom make-up
And secretly covering up blemishes on her face?
In the drizzle returns a wild goose
To this lonely mountain where the spring chill spreads without end.
Even an aria cannot a drifting spirit raise,
I'm dreaming of someone in white untying her jade by the creek.
Yet disturbed I am by warbling birds in a sky bright and clear,
Moist and round are broad leaves.
262 -
262 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of the Terrace of the Zenithal
Sun (At the House of Prosperity and Joy I was allotted to rhyme with the word
ru)
/ English Translation
Slender bamboos stand still with grace, next to drapes of willows I halt my horse,
By the balustrade I look out to a picturesque portrayal of a fleeting moment.
Who is around to an inscription of this mountainous scenery provide?
Before the House there fly wild geese writing a slanted flight.
An easterly hurries along seeing off the setting sun on its incline,
Stirring the chill that lingers as I sober up from the evening drinks I imbibed.
I ponder over how often we get to come before blossoms,
And why did Xiangru suddenly find himself senile?
263 -
263 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of Three Lovely Ladies
/ English Translation
Used to getting drunk among the landscape of lakes and mountains I am,
Staining spring clothes with tear marks and liquor spills everywhere.
Again I pass through the capital,
Over my threadbare collar and sleeves with holes I lament,
I've no one to wash off the dirt and dust on me.
Petunias wind along the winding path behind the doors of the ruins,
Off an abandoned well green vines sway in the wind.
I look to offer my greetings to my host's neighbours,
Where paired swallows that flitted before the Xies used to their nests build.
264 -
264 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Ganzhou Melody of Eight Rhymes
/ English Translation
Vague is the sky in which mist spreads far in all directions, what era am I in?
From the azure of the sky a shooting star takes a fall.
In a mirage I see a grey precipice and cloudy trees,
A gilded estate for young ladies within an overlord's palace has ruins become.
Along the path as straight as an arrow, piercing winds my eyes prod.
The water stained with make-up flowers dye and an odour gives.
Sounding like the passing of a pair of mandarin duck slippers
Are rustling autumn leaves along the gallery.
265 -
265 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of Walking on Grass
/ English Translation
Her smooth skin is enshrouded by voile, a fan hides her cherry lips,
The powdery print around her neck still a faint scent of make-up diffuse.
Cut pomegranates pile like whirling crimson skirts,
Wormwood figures have her worrying hair tipped.
In a dream at noon I see endless hills, out the window shoots time like an arrow.
Scars have healed and lightened on the wrist wearing threads of rainbow.
In the sound of rain the river do us apart,
In the evening breeze leaves of wild rice sway provoking autumnal sorrows.
266 -
266 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of an Auspicious Crane-riding
Immortal
/ English Translation
267 -
267 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of a Partridge-filled Sky (Written
whilst at the Temple of Reformation)
/ English Translation
In the pond lotuses dressed in red offer their company as I lean on the balustrade,
Crows on their return often bring along a sunset.
Cloudy or rainy as the weather may be, leaves from phoenix trees take their fall,
While under a bright moon, a precious fan some coolness provides.
268 -
268 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of Sauntering in the Palace at
Night
/ English Translation
269 -
269 WU Wenying Lyrics to the Melody of Congratulations to the Groom
(Admiring plum blossoms with Master Lzhai at the Pavilion of Billows)
/ English Translation
270 -
270 WU Wenying Lyrics to a Sugary Chant
/ English Translation
271 -
271 HUANG Xiaomai The Moon of a Xiang Spring Night
/ English Translation
The spring equinox draws near, on boughs warbles of blue birds move the heart.
Wasted are arias all over in vain,
Giving way to the twilight that fades.
I wish to appeal to the blossoms of willows,
Yet I'm hesitant of catkins' frivolous nature that may not spring cherish.
The travellers' inn in the Chu region comes to mind, tender were parting sorrows,
Who have I to love and hold?
Over empty cups I tears shed in the night, reticent are blue mountains,
Through the doors shines a crescent.
Before this adorned edifice,
There is only a stretch of the Xiang water,
And swaying clouds of Xiang that float.
Days are long yet dreams short,
When, I'd like to know, could I again cross path with the lovely maiden?
In the face of all this,
There is nothing on earth as sharp as a pair of Bing scissors that could sever
Melancholy that scars the heart.
272 -
272 PAN Xibai Lyrics to the Melody of A Great Deal Of (The Double Ninth)
/ English Translation
273 -
273 HUANG Gongshao Lyrics to the Melody of Green Jadeite Bowl
/ English Translation
Every year on spring and fall's Shrine Day all needlework stops,
How unbearable it is seeing pairs of dashing swallows!
On this day in this river town half expired is spring,
Here I am by myself still deep in the mountains behind many folds,
By the bridge over the creek lies loneliness.
Worn out are my spring clothes yet who could mend them for me?
Full of spots and streaks of tear marks they are.
In the sunset I get off the saddle on the verdurous shore,
There is no one to flowers wear and no one to urge me to quaff,
I'd intoxicated become and there'd still be no one to hold me back.
274 -
274 ZHU Sifa Lyrics to the Melody of Fishing with Bare Hands
/ English Translation
Beyond the red chamber, about to fall seem clouds in the pressing autumnal sky,
The shadowy moon shines still on my wakefulness.
Only heaven could ever decide whether to rain or shine,
In vain was the wistful who withered away.
You should drink up, do you not see,
The tears in the spring breeze outside the Long Gate?
It was a moment of ill decision, I regret not having opted for plain clothes sooner,
Among slender bamboos and twilight, leaning against the wintry green is my grey.
275 -
275 LIU Chenweng Lyrics to the Duke of Lanling Melody (On seeing off
spring in the year of Bingzi)
/ English Translation
276 - ()
276 LIU Chenweng Lyrics to the Appearance of a Precious Caldron (On
the spring moon)
/ English Translation
277 -
277 LIU Chenweng Lyrics to the Melody of Forever in Happiness
(Prologue omitted)
/ English Translation
The moon has just shown her face shining like a round piece of jade,
Thinning clouds fade and drift away, who springtime dominates?
In the palatial garden wintriness lingers, by the lake warmth wears me out,
As bygones flash before my eyes.
Among the grass is fragrant dust, bright lanterns light the night,
More often than not I've grown lazy towards going out side by side.
Yet how could anyone have know that on this night of no fire and smoke,
This town would melancholy seem as if it is enduring a storm.
In the old days of Xuanhe, the capital had crossed the waters to Lin'an,
Pretty was the scenery and things were much the same.
Turning the pages of volumes and volumes of literature on a windy fifteenth,
Those who verses compose suffer the most.
There is no place to take refuge south of the Yangtze, like Du Fu's night in Fuzhou,
The bitterness he suffered, who really knows how to cope?
In vain I face the dimming lamp wide awake,
All over the village resonates the drumming of the Shrine Day.
278 -
278 LIU Chenweng Lyrics to the Melody of Fishing with Bare Hands
(Prologue omitted)
/ English Translation
Stay, my friend, I'll harvest some chives for you this very moment,
Just like I did yesternight.
Deep were our cups as we drank and let loose our voices over songs,
Knocking over drinks dampening half of the sleeves of our spring robes.
I frowned in vain at the image of my grey hair in my drink,
Unavoidable it seems for each and everyone of us.
When parting we each other's hands grasp recalling delightful literary discussions
And our unreserved singing, yet when will we gather again like this?
279 -
279 ZHOU Mi Lyrics to the Melody of the Terrace of the Zenithal Sun (On
seeing off Chen Junheng who has been summoned)
/ English Translation
In your tipsiness you'd come face to face with the Yan Mountains' snow,
Under the freezing moon frozen would be the river,
And there'd be clouds drifting over the mountain range at dawn.
I've senile become with only a few years left,
Fanghui used to roam the Yangtze's south, yet who pays that any attention now?
Easterlies gradually waft green across the shores of the West Lake,
Wild geese have made their return, yet I haven't made it back to the river's south.
I hold most dear our friendship, I could pluck all plums blossoms bare,
And I would still fail to my wistful thoughts convey.
280 -
280 ZHOU Mi Lyrics to the Jade Flower (Prologue omitted)
/ English Translation
Ruby jewellery, precious nephrite and the floating jadeite in the heavens,
How they represent the passage of spring on earth.
In the Yangtze's south or her north,
Never seen was the flower of jade,
I imagine it would look like puffy pear blossoms or snowy plum blooms.
The hills by the Huai River weather what remains of spring,
Has anyone come across the noble and virtuous class?
Time and again flowers wilt and bloom,
Becoming jaded are the able and the courageous of the Jade Pass.
Tales have it that they sent a cut of a jade flower bloom in a golden vase
On a horse trailing red dust towards the capital with its fragrance.
Magnificent and harmonious was the time,
It appealed to most, it caused a stir drawing close Changan's bees and butterflies.
Although old would have been Du by then,
Yet I'm sure of his bygones, blossoms could still relay.
Especially of note was his youth; his Yangzhou reverie,
There was one bridge under the bright moon, Twenty Four was its name.
281 -
281 ZHOU Mi Lyrics to the Melody of the Capital's Bright Moon in
Autumn (Prologue omitted)
/ English Translation
Wide is the misty water, in the remains of twilight wavers lofty trees,
Evening cicadas their misery bleat.
The sound of bugles wafts in the cold among the rhythm of garment pressing,
Leaves drift over the metallic rails surrounding the well.
My clothes are dampened in the shade of phoenix trees by chilly dew,
Flowers of reeds scatter like snow in this autumn season.
I regret over our parting, and I've been grieving inside,
Yet I have only insects of fall to relate to.
282 -
282 ZHOU Mi A Melody Wandering in Spring (Prologue omitted)
/ English Translation
Among willow trees rises the mist forming condensate on the green,
In the reflection are beauties behind palatial screens and riders on levees.
Mild is the dusk shrouded by the cold, vulnerable are pear blossoms to icy dreams,
The fragrance of apricot blossoms casts a melancholy veil.
Here is a toast to the Cold Fare with singing and orchestral play.
Not even butterflies can help with the loneliness of otherwise a fine night.
The lake is now filled with a moon and blossoms, shattered and shaken,
How could I take leave of her on such an occasion?
283 -
283 ZHOU Mi Lyrics to the Melody of Overflowing Blossoms (On narcissi)
/ English Translation
Along the shore of River Chu, I see again lovely tender narcissi,
I cannot utter a word but splash a few crystal tears, yet apathetic is spring.
I face easterlies in vain, for whom have I to my sentiments share with?
Over the rippling water cold is the path of sail amid an endless fall.
Fragrances waft following footsteps,
Calling to mind the dew-collecting immortal palm of the Han Palace
That stands firm and tall under the bright moon.
284 -
284 JIANG Jie Lyrics to the Melody of an Auspicious Crane-riding
Immortal (On seeing the moon in the countryside)
/ English Translation
How extremely joyful! It was a heavenly spot immersed in the fragrance of lotus,
In the garden pear blossoms melted as we steeped in liquor on New Year's eve.
Only to realised at the end of a chess game that it was a century of a dream,
Although there were cherry pits to prove something, traceless remain reveries.
Lucid brilliance, I suggest you take the company of a reticent window
Instead of some nocturnal reed play from a red chamber.
For I'm afraid here on earth we often rearrange the tunes of Liang and Yi,
Which Your Ladyship may not recognise as our loneliness.
285 -
285 JIANG Jie - Lyrics to the Melody of Congratulations to the Groom
/ English Translation
At the House of Mandarin Ducks, in pieces is a jade flagon and spilt is wine,
And I ask of her whereabouts, when will I be able to her presence see?
Yet a jade hairpin cannot this divine.
Let me her graceful brows that heavenly seem
Depict and embroider onto a canvas of raw silk.
However, it'll never be a match for her coming in a new dress and fresh make-up.
Still available are rainbow fans and red clappers,
Yet regretfully there are no one who can the tunes from the Kaiyuan era appreciate,
Leaving my sleeves to drape in vain as I cold bamboos lean against.
286 -
286 JIANG Jie Lyrics to the Melody of a Lady's Headwear (On the night of
a year's first full moon)
/ English Translation
Quiet is the township along the river upon the evening's first gong.
Has anyone learnt to prosperity cherish before they borrow from heaven more?
As I the wick trim and red wax remove, in a dreamy moment I seem to see
Her gilded coach furnished with silk.
On the notepaper of the Wu region glitter words written with silvery powder,
Ready to depict in a literary piece my homeland's landscape.
My neighbour's girl with her hair knot wearing green brings a smile to my face,
By the window she sings still, as the dusky sun sets in the west.
287 -
287 JIANG Jie Lyrics to the Melody Dedicated to Lady Yu (Listening to the
rain)
/ English Translation
288 -
288 ZHANG Yan Lyrics to the Melody of the Terrace of the Zenithal Sun
/ English Translation
In the foliage orioles nest, calm are ripples carrying away petals that drift,
In the sunset boats sail past the Parted Bridge.
How often do we come across such scenery?
We must wait for next year to blossoms admire again.
Easterlies should seek company in rosebushes,
When rosebushes are in bloom, there is little that remains of spring.
Even more depressing is the verdure that spreads to the Bridge of West Chill,
Accompanied by twilight mist.
289 -
289 ZHANG Yan Lyrics to the Melody of Crossing a River of Clouds (I've
roam the west for a long time, Wang Jucun asked about what I've composed
lately, I thus this wrote to put in the post for him.)
/ English Translation
Over the mountains vast is the sky that extends into the sea,
On a loft I look into the distant, the wind rages as the evening tide begins to swell.
Beyond the drapes turtledoves trill in the drizzle,
On the fields here and there, farmers work their spring hoes under the rain.
Willows fresh leaves sprout around the time of the Cold Fare,
By now the West Lake must have the viridescent received.
I still remember when I lived in seclusion there,
Outside by the door there stood two or three willow trees.
290 -
290 ZHANG Yan Lyrics to the Ganzhou Melody of Eight Rhymes (Prologue
omitted)
/ English Translation
Memory of the Jade Pass lingers, where we strolled about treading on snow,
Where wintriness chilled through our marten coats.
By the old track in a withered forest, horses drank from the Long River,
And at leisure we were.
Ephemeral are my dreams that take me back to the Yangtze's left bank,
Out pours tears from this old fellow by the city gate of the West Shire.
Although I didn't any inscription leave, my sorrows were felt by drifting leaves.
291 -
291 ZHANG Yan Lyrics to the Resolution of Connected Rings (A lone wild
goose)
/ English Translation
292 -
292 ZHANG Yan Lyrics to the Melody of Scattered Light and Shade (A
chant on lotus leaves)
/ English Translation
293 -
293 ZHANG Yan Lyrics to the Sound of a Pipe under the Moon (Prologue
omitted)
/ English Translation
294 -
294 WANG Yisun Lyrics to the Melody of a Heavenly Aroma (On the
incense named Dragon's Froth)
/ English Translation
On a lonely peak rise waves of mist, in undulating billows the moon renews in hue,
The Dragon in his palace gathers at night drops of quicksilver.
Water rises sending adrift a raft in the wind, deep are dreams when roses are dewy,
Ready to be processed into intoxicating incense in the shape of heart.
On a red-hot burner over ideal heat,
They are turned into incense in the form of delicate jade rings.
A curl of green smoke whirls around the curtains,
Like a cloudy atmosphere over a sea it seems.
How often she drank herself half intoxicated compromising her charm,
She'd set alight spring lanterns, yet wintry are nights wilting flowers.
On top of it all, over that creek there'd be drifting snow,
Tightly shut would be her porthole.
Like the honourable Xun, when he of his old age took notice,
He inevitably forgot the good times he had when he used to drink.
I shall cherish the incense that lingers, keeping it trapped with my white quilt.
295 -
295 WANG Yisun Dainty Brows (On a new moon)
/ English Translation
Over willows a new crescent emerges, through flowers its pale hue shines,
Abiding by its time as the night begins to fall.
I have a hope for us to reunite,
Pious is my worshipping, would I therefore someone meet on a fragrant path?
Not yet fully drawn is a painted brow,
Perhaps Her Ladyship still carries with her parting sorrows.
What I love the most is a curve of a small silvery hook
Hanging over the incense case in the autumn cold.
296 -
296 WANG Yisun Lyrics to the Melody of Heavenly Joy (On cicadas)
/ English Translation
297 -
297 WANG Yisun The Adagio of Lamenting Along a Gallery (On revisiting
the villa Zhongan used to reside)
/ English Translation
Far travels water, yet who knows beyond where waters flow,
Farther still are myriads of mountains and hills.
Vast is the world and ephemeral are dreams,
Forgetful must be those delicately carved balusters and balustrades.
Hazy is the outlook in the twilight that pervades,
As I pat a mature tree, at hand is old age.
There are all but a few red blooms
That a graceful yet lonesome West Garden embellish.
298 -
298 WANG Yisun Lyrics to the Melody of the Terrace of the Zenithal Sun
(Prologue omitted)
/ English Translation
299 -
299 WANG Yisun Lyrics to a Symphony to be Presented to Immortals
(Prologue omitted)
/ English Translation
Lofty and lush grow layers of green, bright and delicate is the white,
Surpassing ripples and gentle waves.
In the blink of an eye passes time, appealing is the secluded feel,
We've met up again after spring has come around many a time.
I remember asking for wine where we blossoms admired,
Graceful they were and did not lose their powder till late.
300 -
300 PENG Yuanxun Lyrics to the Melody of Scattered Light and Shade
(On seeking plum blossoms but finding none)
/ English Translation
In the afternoon from the deep of the mountain comes the sound of a reed,
I fear that there'd be time when I'm in distress, then I'd offer my symphonic ode.
A multitude of things and matters negate the heart,
Weak friendship wears out those who go between,
Dewy are vines that cling onto clothes.
Secluded is life on the sandbar, yet between sleeps
I've lost the round pendant to the rippling waters of Li.
There are white gulls among light waves and the pale moonlight,
I tell them how I'm enjoying the unfettered clime.
301 -
301 PENG Yuanxun Lyrics to the Melody of Six Failings (On willow catkins)
/ English Translation
Once I docked at the Melon Bay where crowds pass one another year after year,
The sun fell drawing out a feel of fall, crows in the town fluttered at night.
Sleeping on board, luckily I had a sweet dream,
Back to linger on a lake I was, there was not a spot not covered by grass.
Silent is the drizzle, boredom encumbers the vernal spirit,
Which one hopes to alleviate at the House of Joy and Prosperity,
Yet in ruins is the drinking place by the Blue Gate.
I wonder who keeps in mind a destitute soul with little left,
Down dribble sparkling, soft and snowy drops and droplets
To my saturated tears shed.
302 -
302 YAO Yunwen The Adagio of the Fragrance of Fuchsia Evodia
/ English Translation
The Double Ninth approaches, yet winds and rains have been persistent,
Rare is a lovely fine day that today is.
I wonder whether the fragrance of autumn has grown strong and thick,
As I'm about to take my guest and head west out of the town.
Feeling like a traveller, sentimental I am right now,
I fear when I a desolate terrace climb, I'd be even more overwhelmed.
The drinks remind me of the daisy grower who filters wine with his head cloth,
Except of the seated, there is not a seasoned soldier who'd drown in alcohol.
303 -
303 Seng Hui Lyrics to the Melody of a Bright Golden Pond
/ English Translation
304 -
304 LI Qingzhao Lyrics to the Melody of Reminiscing the Flute Play on
the Phoenix Terrace
/ English Translation
305 -
305 LI Qingzhao Lyrics to a Dreamy Chant
/ English Translation
306 -
306 LI Qingzhao Lyrics to the Melody of Becoming Drunk in the Shade
of Blossoms
/ English Translation
307 -
307 LI Qingzhao Lyrics to the Adagio of Resonance
/ English Translation
308 -
308 LI Qingzhao Lyrics to Remembering Your Charm
/ English Translation
309 -
309 LI Qingzhao Lyrics to the Melody of Forever in Happiness
/ English Translation
The sun sets into molten gold, evening clouds a doughnut of jade form,
Yet where is the person I'm thinking of ?
Smoky mist willows shrouds, from under a plum trees sounds a reed's lament,
How much has spring awakened?
On the day of this year's first full moon, balmy is the weather,
This time round there is no wind nor rain.
An invitations comes by way of a scented coach with a prized horse,
Thanks to a group of poetic drinking friends.
310 -
310 LI Qingzhao Lyrics to the Melody of Sandy Creek Washers
/ English Translation
Slouching is my coiled bun that I can't be bothered combing as I brood over spring,
The evening breeze puffs in the garden where plum blossoms begin to fall adrift,
Thin are clouds that float to and fro, among which a bright moon beams.
The jade duck incense burner the fragrance of an exquisite essence disperses,
Cherry red drapes of the bed chamber its bright tassels veil,
Are those rhinoceros horns still effective in shielding against the chill?
000 -
000 LI Qingzhao A Sprig of Plum Blossom
/ English Translation
Lotus flowers are wilting and autumn plaited straw mats chills through,
I remove my silk robe and alone I board a canoe.
Who is it that correspondence send darting through clouds?
By the time I've written a reply, high above the west chamber hangs a full moon.
Flowers wither and petals fall while water takes its course,
Lovers harbour the same yearning, when apart both hearts melancholy brew.
Futile are means to clear the head of sentiments so blue,
One may ease the frown, only to find the heart in sorrow drowns.
000 -
000 YE Mengde - Lyrics to the Melody of Touching Up Rouged Lips (Up on a
small pavilion on a mountain peak in the Shaoxing era in the year of Yi Mao)
/ English Translation
000 -
000 LI Yu - A Joyful Rendezvous
/ English Translation