Poetry · LT104

Old-Style Songs

Flexible-meter ancient verse and sweeping lyrical song ballads.

275works

9dynasties

86authors

Masters & Authors

24 authors

Han

21 works

202 BCE – 220 CE

  1. Nineteen Ancient Poems · Walking and WalkingAnonymous (Eastern Han literati)Separation stretches longer day by day, robe-sashes grow ever looser. Longing makes one age, the years have swiftly turned late.
  2. Nineteen Ancient Poems · Faraway the Cowherd StarAnonymous (Eastern Han literati)Across a single pool of clear water, gazing in deep affection, unable to speak.
  3. Nineteen Ancient Poems · Wading the River to Pluck LotusAnonymous (Eastern Han literati)Wading across the river to pluck lotus blossoms, the orchid marsh is filled with fragrant herbs. Whom do I wish to send them to? The one I yearn for is far away on the road. United in heart yet dwelling apart, we shall grow old in sorrow.
  4. Nineteen Ancient Poems · In the Northwest Stands a Lofty TowerAnonymous (Eastern Han literati)In the northwest stands a lofty tower, its summit rising level with drifting clouds. Patterned latticework graces delicate windows, multi-tiered terraces rise three flights high. From above comes the sound of stringed music and song, how sorrowful the melody rings! I grieve not for the singer's bitter toil, but mourn that true soulmates are so rare. Would that we were a pair of calling cranes, spreading wings to soar high into the sky.
  5. Nineteen Ancient Poems · Bright Moon How RadiantAnonymous (Eastern Han literati)The bright moon shines how radiant, illuminating the curtains of my silk bed. Beset with grief I cannot sleep, gathering my robes I rise and pace. Though traveling afar is said to be joyous, nothing equals returning early home. Stepping outside the door in solitary wandering, to whom can I utter my sorrowful thoughts?
  6. Nineteen Ancient Poems · In the Courtyard Grows a Rare TreeAnonymous (Eastern Han literati)In the courtyard grows a wondrous tree, green leaves blossoming rich and flourishing. Climbing branches I pluck its blossoms, intending to send them to the one I cherish. Sweet fragrance fills my sleeves and bosom, yet the road is too distant to deliver. How could this blossom be precious in itself? I am merely moved by how long we have been parted.
  7. Though the Tortoise Lives LongCao CaoAn old steed lying in its stall still sets its heart on a thousand li; a man of valor in his twilight years keeps his proud heart undimmed.
  8. Song in Reply to the King of XiangConsort Yu (traditionally attributed)My king's spirit is spent: why should your lowly handmaid live on?
  9. Song of the SwanLiu BangThe swan flies high, a thousand li at a single stroke.
  10. Song for Lady Li (Is It She or Not)Emperor Wu of Han (Liu Che)I stand and gaze at her: why does she come so slowly, so gracefully, so late?
  11. Songs of the Huzi BreachEmperor Wu of Han (Liu Che)Tell the Lord of the River for me: why is he so unkind, flooding without end and grieving my people?
  12. Poem of Four SorrowsZhang HengMy fair one gave me a gold-inlaid knife; what can I give back? Fine jade and gems.
  13. The Eastern City Wall Is High and LongMei Cheng (traditionally attributed)Yan and Zhao have many beauties; the loveliest have faces like jade.
  14. Orchids Grow in the Spring SunMei Cheng (traditionally attributed)My beauty is beyond the clouds; the road to heaven is barred, with no day to meet.
  15. Farewell to My WifeSu WuSince we bound up our hair as husband and wife, our love has known no doubt on either side.
  16. The Officer of the Feathered Forest GuardXin YannianA man may love his later wife, but a woman holds to her first husband.
  17. Peach and Plum by the Road East of LuoyangSong ZihouIn autumn we wither of ourselves, but in spring we bloom sweet again.
  18. Poems Sent to My WifeQin JiaHuman life is like the morning dew; our time in the world is full of hardship.
  19. Longing in an Empty RoomXu GanSince you went away, my bright mirror has dimmed, left uncared for.
  20. A Love Poem: For Whom Should I Adorn MyselfXu GanYou have gone and never come back; for whom should I adorn myself?
  21. Pledging LoveFan QinHow shall I show my devotion? With twin gold bracelets on my arms.

Three Kingdoms

10 works

220–280

  1. Singing of My Thoughts · Poem 1 (Night Cannot Sleep)Ruan JiThin curtains reflect the bright moon, cool breezes brush my robe. Pacing, what is there to see? Sorrow wounds my solitary heart.
  2. Seven Steps PoemCao ZhiBorn from the very same root, why oppress each other with such haste?
  3. To Biao, King of BaimaCao ZhiA man's resolve spans the four seas; ten thousand li are like next door. If love and kindness suffer no loss, distance only makes us closer day by day.
  4. Poem of Sorrow and IndignationCai Wenji (Cai Yan)From the horses' sides hung men's heads; behind the horses rode captive women.
  5. Poem of Sorrow and Indignation · Part ICai Yan (Cai Wenji)They hacked and slew until none remained; corpses and bones lay propped against one another. From the horses' sides hung men's heads; behind on the horses they carried off women.
  6. On Seeing a Boat Hauler at Qinghe Parting from His New BrideCao PiI wish we were a pair of yellow swans, wing to wing at play on a clear pool.
  7. Written at QingheCao PiI wish we were falcons of the morning wind, flying as a pair to the northern wood.
  8. Five Miscellaneous Poems · The Bright Moon Shines on the High TowerCao ZhiYou are like dust on the clear road; I am like mud in muddy water.
  9. Poem of a Cast-Off WifeCao ZhiWith a child, a wife is a moon crossing heaven; without one, a falling star.
  10. Two Poems Singing of My ThoughtsRuan JiThey wished to be a pair of birds in flight, soaring wing to wing together.

Jin

25 works

265–420

  1. Drinking Wine · Poem 5 (Plucking Chrysanthemums)Tao YuanmingPlucking chrysanthemums beneath the eastern hedge, leisurely I see the Southern Mountain. In this lies truth; wanting to speak, I forget all words.
  2. Returning to Dwell in the Country · Poem 1Tao YuanmingThe caged bird yearns for old woods, the pond fish pines for its deep abyss. Long in the cage, I return at last to Nature.
  3. Mourning the Departed · Poem IPan YueSeeing our house I think of her; entering the room I recall what she did there.
  4. Mount Tai ChantXie DaoyunMade by no carpenter and by no craftsman, this cloud-high structure arises of itself.
  5. Two Orchid Pavilion PoemsWang XizhiLooking up, I gaze to the edge of the blue sky; looking down, I sit by the green water's shore. Clear and boundless, the view has no limit; what meets the eye reveals its own principle.
  6. Matching a Poem by Lady BanFu XuanThat husband was not good, but this wife too was far too unbending.
  7. Five Love PoemsZhang HuaIn joy one regrets that the night is short; in sorrow one resents that the night is long.
  8. Two Miscellaneous Poems · The Spring Palace and the Empty HouseZhang HuaThe prince roams and does not return; the long road stretches far and remote.
  9. Two Poems Turning My Thoughts HomewardPan YueDo not say rare meetings mean estrangement: at a distance our bond grows ever firmer.
  10. Imitating 'A High Tower in the Northwest'Lu JiI do not mind the long wait standing here; I only wish the singer joy.
  11. Imitating 'The East City Wall Stands High'Lu JiOne verse, and ten thousand men rejoice; a second, and the dust flies from the beams.
  12. Imitating 'Orchids Grow in the Spring Sun'Lu JiIt holds its heart, true to the seasons' trust, and in the year's cold dares not wither.
  13. Imitating 'Far, Far the Herd Boy Star'Lu JiShe resents that river without a bridge, and grieves that the year is at its end.
  14. Imitating 'Green, Green the Riverbank Grass'Lu JiInto the empty room a sad wind comes; at midnight she rises and sighs.
  15. Imitating 'In the Courtyard a Rare Tree'Lu JiThe fragrant grass has long since grown lush, yet my fair one never returned.
  16. Imitating 'Crossing the River to Pick Lotus'Lu JiI pick and pick but do not fill my hands; far, far away I think of the one I love.
  17. Written for Gu Yanxian, to His WifeLu JiThe capital at Luo has much wind and dust; my white robe has turned to black.
  18. Written for Lady Zhou, to Her Husband the Cavalry GeneralLu JiMen have far-reaching ambitions; how would you know how I think of you?
  19. Written for Gu Yanxian: An Exchange with His WifeLu YunWith what shall I bind my inmost faith? I look up and point to the Pole Star.
  20. Miscellaneous Poem: A Cool Wind on an Autumn NightZhang XieGreen moss clings to the empty walls; spiders web all four sides of the room.
  21. Poems of Joined JoyYang FangOur love at its height could cut metal and stone; glue and lacquer are not so firm.
  22. Teasing a FriendLi ChongI hope you will deign to come on your jade feet; one visit is worth a thousand in gold.
  23. Hearing Clothes Pounded at NightCao PiSlender hands fold the light white silk; clear pestles strike the ringing block.
  24. Imitating "On and On, Going On and On"Lu JiI gather my robe and the sash hangs loose; I feel my body and it no longer fills the lapels.
  25. Imitating "How Bright the Moon"Lu JiIts shining has light to spare, but grasp at it and it does not fill the hand.

Northern and Southern

167 works

420–589

  1. Imitating the Hard Roads (No. 4)Bao ZhaoPour water onto flat ground, and it flows east, west, south, and north in divergent paths. Human life has its destined lot—how can one pace in sighs and sit brooding in grief?
  2. Imitating the Hard Roads (No. 6)Bao ZhaoFacing the banquet table I cannot eat; drawing my sword I strike the pillar in long sighs. How long is a real man granted in this mortal world? How can I pace timidly with drooping wings!
  3. Climbing the Tower by the PondXie LingyunUpon the pond green spring grass sprouts anew; garden willows transform with warbling songbirds. Mourning the exile songs of Bin, moved by the lush laments of Chu.
  4. Returning across the Lake from the Stone Cliff RetreatXie LingyunBetween dawn and dusk the air and light change; mountains and waters hold a clear radiance.
  5. Climbing Three Mountains at Dusk and Looking Back Toward the CapitalXie TiaoThe lingering clouds of sunset spread out like damask; the clear river lies still like white silk.
  6. En Route to Xuancheng Departing Xinlin Anchorage for BanqiaoXie TiaoAt the sky's edge I make out returning boats; among the clouds I discern the riverside trees.
  7. On My Wife Napping in the DaytimeXiao GangSmiling in a dream, her charming dimples open; her sleeping coils of hair press on fallen flowers.
  8. Imitating 'Meeting on a Narrow Road'Xun ChangThe eldest wife weaves white and patterned silk; the second wife sews gauze robes.
  9. Imitating the Ballad 'Green Grass Along the River'Xun ChangFirst it said: let each of us take care; then it said: we will long think of each other.
  10. Two Miscellaneous Poems: A Soldier's Widow and a Waiting WifeWang Wei I waited for you and you never came home; now I compose my face and go to the coffin.
  11. Seventh Night of the Seventh Month: On the Herd Boy and the Weaver GirlXie HuilianIn the Milky Way there is a divine pair who all year long cannot be together.
  12. Pounding Cloth for the Winter RobesXie HuilianI cut it with the knife from my box and sew it into clothes for ten thousand li away.
  13. Written in the Old Style: Damask Figured with SwansXie HuilianWe are joined like water in one cup: who could tell the Zi from the Sheng?
  14. After "On and On, Going On and On"Liu ShuoThe fragrant years have their flowering months, but my beloved has no day of return.
  15. After "How Bright the Moon"Liu ShuoThe river is wide and has no bridge; the mountains are high and the road hard to cross.
  16. After "In the First Month of Winter the Cold Air Comes"Liu ShuoOne page could not hold all it meant; read three times over, its feeling still overflows.
  17. After "Green, Green the Grass by the River"Liu ShuoHer husband has long been away on labour service; steadfast, she keeps watch from dusk to dawn.
  18. Ode on the Herd Boy and the Weaver GirlLiu ShuoTheir deep feelings are not yet poured out, and the flying light has already slipped away.
  19. Beneath the Moon on the Seventh NightWang SengdaThe joy of meeting cannot last the night; holding back tears, they weep at the dividing River.
  20. For the Weaver Girl, to the Herd BoyYan YanzhiIt is not the toil of shuttle and loom I resent; I only grieve that the blossoms fade.
  21. Poem of Qiu HuYan YanzhiIs southern gold not precious? Yet in her own mind she holds it light.
  22. Enjoying the Moon at the West Gate of the CityBao ZhaoOn the fifteenth and the sixteenth, a thousand li apart, you and I share it.
  23. The Mulberry PickersBao ZhaoThe bright prime is hard to bring back; for whom should a deep heart run dry?
  24. Going Home in a DreamBao ZhaoAsleep, the long road seemed short; awake, the great river parts us again.
  25. Imitating the Ancients: Before the Riverside Grass Turns YellowBao ZhaoThinking of this, how great is my sorrow! The night is long and the sorrow grows.
  26. On a Pair of SwallowsBao ZhaoWith a sad song they leave an old love; carrying mud, they seek a new companion.
  27. Two Poems for an Old FriendBao ZhaoCold ashes, once dead, may burn again; an evening flower is fresh once more at dawn.
  28. In the Manner of Ruan Ji, Infantry CommanderWang SuI send word to men in the flower of youth: favour and profit cannot be counted on.
  29. Imitating 'Green, Green the Riverside Grass'Bao LinghuiIn this life, who does not part? But I resent that you went so early to war.
  30. Imitating 'A Guest Came from Far Away'Bao LinghuiIts wood bears a grain of longing; its strings carry the music of parting.
  31. Written after a Letter, for One AwayBao LinghuiSince you went away, I sit by the window and never smile.
  32. In the Old Manner, for Someone of TodayBao LinghuiMy beauty will be gone in a single morning; only my unchanging heart will remain.
  33. Written for Guo Xiaoyu, Wife of the Monk Ge: Two PoemsBao LinghuiI hold the tears of a whole lifetime, through autumn and on through spring.
  34. On a Fan of the Seven TreasuresQiu JuyuanAs times change, the old is soon forgotten; as seasons turn, all vie to keep the new.
  35. Listening to the Singing Girls Next DoorQiu JuyuanAmong the clouds sweet notes ring through; on the tail of the wind lovely voices come.
  36. Two Poems in the Old MannerWang RongI waited for you, and you never came; autumn geese fly by in pairs.
  37. On the PipaWang RongIts strings carry thoughts and feelings; among the flowers it lodges spring longing.
  38. On a CurtainWang RongI always gather the smoke of the golden censer, and at times hold the sound of the jade zither.
  39. For Registrar Wang: Two PoemsXie TiaoHaving met once, she longs for ever, and would send her heart on fluttering wings.
  40. Matching Registrar Wang: A Lady's GrievanceXie TiaoOnce a single glance from you weighed heavy, and a thousand in gold seemed cheap.
  41. Listening to the Singing Girls: Two PoemsXie TiaoFull of feeling, their dancing moves slow; hearts inclined, their songs are drawn out.
  42. On a Former Palace Lady of Handan Married to a Menial SoldierXie TiaoIn dreams, suddenly, it seems she still speaks of being received at the private feasts.
  43. Autumn Night of Crickets and Fulling BlocksXie TiaoWho can bear to live apart so long? Autumn ends, and winter comes again.
  44. On a LampXie TiaoAlone it faces the evening of longing, shining in vain on the seams of a dancing robe.
  45. On a CandleXie TiaoI resent you, moon of the autumn night, for leaving me the shade of the inner chamber.
  46. On a MatXie TiaoI only hope a silk robe will brush it, and never let white dust spread over it.
  47. On a Mirror StandXie TiaoHer jade face sees only itself, in vain; she always fears your feeling will fade.
  48. Falling Plum BlossomsXie TiaoAt dusk they fall and scatter for good; your favour cannot be won back.
  49. A Palindrome Poem of Frontier SpringWang RongParted love is cut off by the long road; sighs gather deep in the inner chamber.
  50. Counsellor Xiao Goes West: Written on Night DutyWang RongThe small heart knows no near or far; but the borderlands have wind and frost.
  51. To an Old Friend, with Pollia from the Fragrant IsleXie TiaoHow can we walk hand in hand, pouring wine and writing new poems?
  52. Parting from Jiang of the Water BureauXie TiaoAfter we part, if you can think of me, why lament that we live in different lands?
  53. A Night of PartingXie TiaoIn the hall of parting the candles burn out; behind the farewell curtains the zither is sad.
  54. On a Bamboo Warming CageXie TiaoClose-woven, yet its use calls for openness; its pattern slants, but its nature is not crooked.
  55. In the Old Manner: PartingJiang YanSeeing you off seems like only yesterday, yet the dew before the eaves has already beaded.
  56. In the Manner of Lady Ban: The FanJiang YanSecretly I grieve that the cool wind will come and blow on the trees by my jade steps.
  57. In the Manner of Minister Zhang: Parting SorrowJiang YanA fair lady strokes her sounding zither, keeping watch by empty curtains through the clear night.
  58. In the Manner of the Monk Xiu: Lament at PartingJiang YanAt dusk the blue clouds gather, and the fair one has still not come.
  59. In Reply to Vice Director Liu's Lament for a Soldier AbroadQiu Chi Though fish play to the south and north, in the end they return beside the lotus leaves.
  60. In Reply to Palace Attendant Xu's Poem to a Wife on Another's BehalfQiu Chi Who would speak of the hardships of service? I hug my knees and sigh in vain.
  61. Climbing High to View the SpringShen YueThe spring wind shakes the many trees, lush and thick, both green and red.
  62. Written for a Young Man Newly MarriedShen YueShe puts Zhao Feiyan to shame and makes Qin Luofu a laughing-stock.
  63. A Spring Poem: Willows Like SilkShen YueSpring grass is green and green again; the traveller's heart is wounded at this season.
  64. On Peach BlossomsShen YueThe red petals already blaze bright, and now they hold the sunlight too.
  65. On the Moon · Moonlight on a Quiet NightShen YueMoonlight comes down upon the quiet night; the night is still, and the haze and dust are gone.
  66. On the Willow · Light Shade over JianzhangShen YueWith the wind the branches knot and come loose; wet with dew, they are soft and long.
  67. On the Transverse Bamboo FluteShen YueIn the tune there is a deep meaning; my true heart, how could you know it?
  68. Six RemembrancesShen YueWhen she smiled she had no equal; when she pouted she was lovelier still.
  69. Embroidery at the CollarShen YueWithout a sound, it seems a breeze is stirring; with no wind, the branches move of themselves.
  70. The Slippers on Her FeetShen YueHer skirt parts as she comes to the dancing mat; her sleeves brush round the singing hall.
  71. Imitating 'Green, Green the Riverside Grass' · Dust on the BedShen YueMy old love I must not remember; at midnight I sigh long.
  72. In the Old Manner: Below Cong TerraceShen YueA brocade quilt gives no warmth to one alone; my silk robe is fragrant for nothing.
  73. Dreaming of a BeautyShen YueI watched you standing, then lying stretched beside me; suddenly I woke, and you were not there.
  74. Imitating the Ancients: A Lone Bird on the Cassia BoughShen YueNot that there is no other mate for me; my small heart will never change.
  75. Early SpringShen YueWith nothing to do we follow the plum blossom, and in the empty air put our faith in the willows.
  76. Mourning One GoneShen YueAlas, the way of humans is different: once gone, one vanishes forever.
  77. Poems on Fulling ClothLiu YunOn the waterside flats the leaves come down; over the hilltops the autumn clouds fly.
  78. Miscellaneous Poem · Light Clouds, Warming ColoursLiu YunYou know only that seeking office is right, and never think that parting is wrong.
  79. Threading Needles on the Seventh NightLiu YunMeeting the cold, I take up my night sewing, and draw out fine thread by the light of the moon.
  80. On a Rush MatLiu YunThough it lacks the lightness of single-cocoon silk, happily it has the colour of a green robe.
  81. On a Singing GirlJiang HongShe does not show herself whole to others, but hides half behind light gauze.
  82. On a Dancing GirlJiang HongAs she lifts her sleeves she already strikes a pose; as she moves her feet, grace again.
  83. On Red NotepaperJiang HongIt carries the heart of parting, and is the wrapping of longing too.
  84. On the Rose · Planted by the DoorJiang HongUnshaken, the scent already swirls; with no wind, the petals fly of themselves.
  85. In the Style of XieHe ZilangLonging for you, she strikes the tight-set zither bridges; how slender her jade-white fingers are.
  86. In Reply to Secretary Yu Qian's Poem in the Old MannerHe ZilangWhen will my lord come home, to pour a cup of wine with me?
  87. In Reply to Young Master Miao's 'Watching the Moon'He ZilangIn the cool, clear water of the jade pool, the moth-brow moon is mirrored.
  88. On a Swaying Hairpin FlowerShen ManyuanCut like lotus, it does not look made; shaped as flowers, it seems to have grown.
  89. Teasing Lady XiaoShen ManyuanWhen the wind lifts the curtains now and then, one glimpses, as in a dream, her lovely form.
  90. On a Five-Coloured Bamboo Warming CageShen ManyuanIn vain we sigh at its fine golden trim; who remembers it once soared toward the clouds?
  91. On a Lamp · The Silk Feast at DuskShen ManyuanIt does not grudge the light moths circling it; it fears only the dawn, when the flies begin to buzz.
  92. Gazing at the River at Dusk, for Adjutant YuHe XunBright and clear, sails head for the shore; round and red, the sun sinks behind the islet.
  93. Looking in the Mirror · Pearl Blinds Rolled at DawnHe XunThe wanderer has gone and not come home; her tear-streaked makeup wets her breast as she sits.
  94. Boudoir Lament · The Dawn River Sinks Behind the RoofHe XunMy longing for you never shifts; how is it different from the North Star?
  95. On the Seventh Night · The Immortal Carriage HaltsHe XunParted, they cannot say a word; the Milky Way swells into a rushing flood.
  96. On a Dancing CourtesanHe XunFollowing the song, she turns her slender hands; listening to the tune, she stirs her moth brows.
  97. Watching a New BrideHe XunWhat are they beside this night of bridal candles, when a light fan hides her rouged face?
  98. On a Courtesan's HouseHe XunNight flowers open on the boughs; a new moon rises in the mist.
  99. On White Gulls, Teasing One Who PartsHe XunEast and west, from here they go their ways; no shadow or sound of each other can reach them.
  100. After 'Green, Green the Riverside Grass'He XunA broken string still clings to its peg; a fallen leaf has only just left the bough.
  101. Teasing Consultant Liu XiaochuoHe XunLittle does she know the man bound for the dawn audience is already in the ragged line of geese.
  102. Gazing Out from an Autumn ChamberYu DanThe one she longs for never comes; in vain she keeps watch past the middle of the clear night.
  103. Dreaming at Night of Going HomeYu DanParted, we cannot see each other; it is hard to bear facing the spring light.
  104. Gazing at the Weaver GirlFan YunHer inch of feeling is tied in a hundred knots; her one heart hangs in ten thousand places.
  105. Lament for a Man Away at the WarsJiang YanOn what day will the frontier dust settle, and his war horse come back to the court?
  106. On a Beauty's Spring OutingJiang YanWhite snow has set into her jade-fine face; a bright pearl dots her crimson lips.
  107. In the Manner of Pan of the Yellow Gate: Telling My GriefJiang YanWhen the rain has stopped, no cloud comes back; when flowers fall, how could the petals stay?
  108. Autumn Night · The Moon Sets Toward MidnightShen YueDimly the fireflies sink into the mist; in long lines the geese cross the clouds.
  109. Matching Xiao Zixian's Poems in the Old MannerWu Jun Not only do my tears turn to pearls; the pearls, too, are seen to turn to blood.
  110. Poems Exchanged with Liu YunWu Jun The parted crane flies a thousand li; the lone mate finds no rest at night.
  111. For Du Rongcheng: Two Swallows Meet AgainWu Jun I answer that the sea road is long, and with so much wind I had no strength to fly.
  112. A Spring Poem: Where Has Spring Come FromWu Jun From where has spring come? It brushes my clothes and startles the plum.
  113. A Cast-Off Wife to Her Former HusbandWu Jun My heart broke at the place we parted; my looks waste away in tears.
  114. On a Handsome YouthWu Jun A million is paid for one word from him, a thousand in gold to buy his company.
  115. On a Moonlit Night, for Chen of Nankang and His New BeautyWang SengruShe is sixteen and like a flower; the moon of the fifteenth is like a mirror.
  116. Seeing a Nobleman Welcome His New Beauty, a Few Lines for the OccasionWang SengruHappily Changqing has no partner yet, and Wenjun is newly widowed.
  117. Hearing a Neighbour Woman Weave at Night, with Censor SimaWang SengruStill afraid you have nothing to wear, night after night I weave at the window.
  118. Night Sorrow · Dew from the EavesWang SengruWho knows how my heart and eyes are thrown into confusion, so that, looking at red, I suddenly see green?
  119. Grievance in a Spring BoudoirWang SengruGrieving, I watch the powder on butterfly wings; weeping, I gaze at the spiders' threads.
  120. Pounding Cloth · As the Season's Pitch Pipes TurnWang SengruA foot of silk lies in a fish's belly; my inch of heart rides on a wild goose's foot.
  121. Telling a Dream on Someone's BehalfWang SengruOn waking, all was empty; only then I knew it had all been illusion.
  122. For Someone: So Near, Yet Never MeetingWang SengruI have someone of one heart with me, in my own village, not some distant county.
  123. In the Manner of 'Gathering Lovage', for the Former Concubine of Director HeWang SengruThe new one draws near with a smile; the old one withdraws, holding back her tears.
  124. A Few Rhymes at the Wine Feast of Wang of Jin'anWang SengruHer turning glances are not without meaning; from behind a tilted fan she looks this way again.
  125. A Love Gift Written for SomeoneWang SengruHappily there is a chance to lift my robe and wade across; full of feeling, I send a single word.
  126. The Grievance of Master He's ConcubineWang SengruThe banished minister and the abandoned wife: their fallen hearts are not hard to know.
  127. A Favoured Concubine's Grievance, Written for SomeoneWang SengruIt is my sorrow that has made me thin, not that you prize a slender waist.
  128. A Concubine Grieves for Herself, Written for HerWang SengruA broken string can still be mended; a heart that has gone is the hardest thing to keep.
  129. Autumn Boudoir Lament · Slanting Light on the West WallWang SengruAll my toil and pain are in vain; in the end, they say, you do not know.
  130. For My Wife · Dust on the Jade BedXu FeiSo for now I let a single letter speak for a heart twisted nine times over.
  131. Facing the Peach Tree Before Our Room, on the Day We Should Meet, for My WifeXu FeiThe guarded walls cannot be crossed; I pick this blossom in place of the sacred hemp.
  132. Hearing Cloth Pounded Beyond the Walls at Night, from the Huaguan OfficeFei ChangI can only hear, never see; alone at night I stand in empty grief.
  133. Matching Secretary Xiao's 'Longing on a Spring Morning'Fei ChangThe water follows the peach blossoms away; spring comes back with the willows.
  134. Gazing at a Beauty in the Spring FieldsFei ChangAt dusk below the tall tower, you should know my family name is Qin.
  135. On Looking in the Mirror · Dawn Light on the Apricot BeamsFei ChangIn the city every woman paints her brows halfway up her forehead; it is not I alone who draw them long.
  136. Sunny Spring Sends Forth Its Mild AirFei ChangWith a sweep of the sleeve one should keep the guest; having met, let us not make things hard for each other.
  137. On an Autumn Night the Cool Wind RisesFei ChangA rosy face lasts only a while; when you come home, how can it still be in time?
  138. In Reply to My Husband: Two PoemsLiu LingxianIf you would know how deep my hidden grief, the spring chamber is deep, and it is dusk.
  139. Imitating the Ancients: Old Friends Must Not Be ForgottenHe SichengAn old friend must not be forgotten, like the lasting fragrance of orchid and cassia.
  140. Meeting a Beauty in the Southern ParkHe SichengThe wind lifts her grape-patterned sash; the sun shines on her pomegranate-red skirt.
  141. Boudoir Lament · The Nomad Pipes Keep Breaking OffWu Jun Three thousand li lie between us; like the stars Shen and Shang, letters can hardly pass.
  142. On a Singing Girl · Back from the High HallWang SengruWith a second glance a city is easily toppled; a single smile costs a thousand in gold.
  143. Listening to the BlackbirdLiu LingxianRapt and delighted, I linger to listen, and so my makeup is left unfinished.
  144. Pounding Cloth · Autumn Garments for the Cold FrontierXiao YanFor whom should I adorn myself? Thinking of you wrings my heart.
  145. Imitating 'Green, Green Grass by the River' · A Dream Cut ShortXiao YanHalf asleep I felt you had come; awake, there was no form at all.
  146. In Place of the Wife of Su Wu, Lord of the Dependent StatesXiao YanI have not finished reading the silk letter, and tears run down my cheeks like threads.
  147. Old Meaning · The Vine on the Pine and the Plant of ForgettingXiao YanHave you not seen the vine on the pine? Its leaves fall, but its roots do not move.
  148. Purple Orchids Beginning to SproutXiao YanTheir fragrance comes out with the season; gracefully they grow to meet it.
  149. The Weaving WifeXiao YanMy husband is ten thousand li away; with whom could I finish a bolt, or make a pair?
  150. The Seventh Night · Orchid Oil Burning Toward DawnXiao YanThis wondrous meeting is no ordinary festival; the tryst is a good year's gift.
  151. In Jest · Goddesses and the Belles of Yan and ZhaoXiao YanLong sleeves are sure to detain a guest, and clear song winds all about the beams.
  152. The Newly Built Palace of Peace and JoyXiao GangPearl blinds let in the morning sun; golden blossoms brush the night wind.
  153. Twin Parasol Trees by the Empty WellXiao GangLate leaves hide the roosting phoenix; morning blossoms brush the crows at dawn.
  154. The Lotus Boat Buys Its PassageXiao GangTo know where the boat is passing, watch where the lotus leaves part.
  155. Watching a Hairpin Fall in the StreamXiao GangThe current sways and breaks our painted reflections; a hairpin falls and leaves my hair bare.
  156. A Spring Night · Coloured Paper Folded in VainXiao GangThe sound of the wind follows the music of the bamboo; the moon's colour is the pond's.
  157. A Winter Dawn · Why Rouge So EarlyXiao GangSince there is no one to see, what use is rouge so early?
  158. In Jest, in the Manner of Xie Huilian · Thirteen RhymesXiao GangPeach blossoms red as dots of paint; willow leaves tangled like silken threads.
  159. The Singing Girl's Resentment · Twelve RhymesXiao GangThe wanderer sends no word; her red lips are fragrant in vain.
  160. Matching Recorder Xu: Watching His Wife Make BeddingXiao GangCut in joy-uniting pleats, its pattern joins the mandarin ducks in pairs.
  161. Teasing Two Beauties with a PoemXiao GangShy, she has not yet stepped onto the stairs; smiling faintly, she comes out along the gallery.
  162. Autumn Boudoir, Night ThoughtsXiao GangIf you would know why I cannot sleep, hear the cloth being pounded beyond the city.
  163. Matching the Prince of Xiangdong · A Man of Note Delights in a Peerless BeautyXiao GangHer dressing window is screened by the green of willows; the well water mirrors the pink of the peach.
  164. Back in the City from a Halt on the MarchXiao GangThe sun warms the heart of the reeds; the wind carries the scent of plum buds.
  165. On a Discarded ConcubineXiao GangA lone swan gives up halfway; a lone luan-bird dies before the mirror.
  166. Writing in Play, Brush in HandXiao GangOn jade tables, peaches of the Queen Mother of the West; in gourd cups, pomegranate wine.
  167. The Seventh Night · The Heavenly Shuttle StopsXiao GangThe heavenly shuttle has long been weaving; only tonight does it stop to meet.

Tang

42 works

618–907

  1. Song of Everlasting RegretBai JuyiTurning with a single smile, a hundred charms arose; all the beauties of the palace faded without color.
  2. The Bailiff at ShihaoDu FuThe living merely eke out their days; the dead are gone for evermore!
  3. Song on Ascending the Youzhou TerraceChen Zi'angBefore me I see not the ancients; behind me I see not those to come. Pondering the boundless infinity of heaven and earth, alone in grief my tears stream down!
  4. Song of White Snow in Farewell to Assistant Magistrate Wu Returning to the CapitalCen ShenAs if overnight a spring breeze had arrived, thousands of trees blossom with pear flowers. Beyond winding peaks you vanish from sight, leaving only horseshoe tracks in deep white snow.
  5. The Hard Road to ShuLi BaiAh, alas, how perilous and towering! The road to Shu is harder than climbing to the cerulean blue sky!
  6. The Hard RoadLi BaiA time will come to ride the winds and cleave the waves; I shall hoist cloud-high sails straight across the azure sea!
  7. Song of My Thatched Cottage Wrecked by Autumn GaleDu FuHow could I secure ten thousand grand mansions, to shelter all destitute scholars under heaven in beaming smiles! Standing unmoved through wind and storm, secure as a mountain.
  8. Song of the PipaBai JuyiWe both are drifted wanderers cast to heaven's far corners; meeting like this, what need is there for prior acquaintance!
  9. Upon the Lofty Mountain PeakHanshan (Cold Mountain)In the spring there is really no moon; the moon is itself in the blue sky.
  10. People Ask for the Way to Cold MountainHanshan (Cold Mountain)People ask the road to Cold Mountain; yet Cold Mountain has no open road. In midsummer ice remains unthawed; when the sun rises, mists drift obscurely. How did someone like me reach here? Because our minds are not the same! If your heart resembled mine, you too could pass right through.
  11. Remote and Dim, the Cold Mountain RoadHanshan (Cold Mountain)Morning after morning I do not see the sun; year after year I do not know spring.
  12. Freedom from Anger Is the PreceptShideTo be free of anger is itself the precept; a pure mind is itself leaving home.
  13. Song of Tea Drinking Teasing Governor Cui ShiJiaoran (Monk Jiaoran)The first cup washes away dullness and drowsiness; my spirits rise, bright and clear, filling heaven and earth. The second cup clears my mind, like flying rain sprinkling away light dust. With the third cup I attain the Way; why labour painfully to break through vexations?
  14. Song of ChangganLi BaiYou came riding a bamboo horse, circling the well-rail, playing with green plums.
  15. A Dream Journey to Mount Tianmu: A Song of FarewellLi BaiHow could I lower my brows and bend my waist to serve the mighty and noble, and never again show a happy face?
  16. Drinking Alone Under the Moon, No. 1Li BaiRaising my cup, I invite the bright moon; with my shadow, we make a party of three.
  17. A Moonlit Night on the Spring RiverZhang RuoxuWho on the riverbank first saw this moon? In what year did the river moon first shine on a person?
  18. Farewell to Collator Shuyun at Xie Tiao's Tower in XuanzhouLi BaiDraw a blade to cut the water, and the water flows on; raise a cup to drown sorrow, and sorrow grows deeper.
  19. Ballad of the Army CartsDu FuNow we truly know that bearing a son is bad, and bearing a daughter is better.
  20. Song of the Governor of YanmenLi HeBlack clouds press on the city, as if to crush it; armour glints toward the sun, like golden scales opening.
  21. Bring in the WineLi BaiHeaven made my talents, and they must have their use; scatter a thousand in gold and it will all come back again.
  22. The Old Charcoal SellerBai JuyiPitiful: the clothes on his back are thin, yet fearing charcoal will sell cheap, he wishes the weather colder!
  23. Expressing My FeelingsWei ZhengIn life one is moved by loyalty and spirit; who still talks of fame and merit?
  24. Ballad of the Fair LadiesDu FuOn the third day of the third month the air is fresh; by the waters of Chang'an walk many fair ladies.
  25. Spring LongingLi BaiSpring wind, you are no friend of mine: why do you come into my silk bed curtains?
  26. For Wei Ba, a Scholar Living in RetirementDu FuIn life, friends who do not meet are like the stars Shen and Shang, never in the sky together.
  27. The Beauty in the Empty ValleyDu FuHe sees only the new one smile; how would he hear the old one weep?
  28. FarewellWang WeiGo, then; I will ask no more: the white clouds there have no end.
  29. Midnight Songs of Wu · SpringLi BaiMy silkworms are hungry and I must go; you of the five horses, do not linger.
  30. Song of the Faithful WifeMeng JiaoI vow that no wave shall ever rise: my heart is the water of an old well.
  31. Song Beyond the FrontierWang ChanglingThe bold men of You and Bing have always grown old together with the dust and sand.
  32. Parting at a Wine Shop in JinlingLi BaiAsk, I beg you, of the river flowing east: which is longer, it or the feeling of parting?
  33. Living by the StreamLiu ZongyuanComing and going I meet no one; I sing long songs to the blue sky of Chu.
  34. Setting Out from Yangzi: To Collator Yuan the EldestWei YingwuA man rowing home to Luoyang; the last bell tolls among the trees of Guangling.
  35. The Old FishermanLiu ZongyuanThe mist melts, the sun comes out, and he is nowhere to be seen; one creak of the oar, and the hills and waters are green.
  36. Thinking of Xin the Eldest at the South Pavilion on a Summer DayMeng HaoranThe wind over the lotuses sends their fragrance; dew drips from the bamboo with a clear sound.
  37. Enjoying the Moon in the South Study with My Cousin, Remembering Sheriff Cui of ShanyinWang ChanglingA thousand li apart, what can be done? A light breeze stirs the orchids and wild ginger.
  38. Farm Households by the Wei RiverWang WeiThe setting sun shines on the village; down the narrow lanes the cattle and sheep come home.
  39. Climbing Orchid Mountain in Autumn: To Zhang the FifthMeng HaoranTrees at the sky's edge look like shepherd's purse; a boat by the river is like the moon.
  40. Moved by What I Meet, No. 4Zhang JiulingFine clothes draw people's pointing fingers; high and bright places invite the hatred of the gods.
  41. Song of Returning to Lumen at NightMeng HaoranMoonlight on Lumen opens the misty trees; suddenly I reach the place where Master Pang lived in seclusion.
  42. The Moon over the Mountain PassesLi BaiThe bright moon rises over the Tianshan, amid a vast and boundless sea of clouds.

Song

4 works

960–1279

  1. Canglang PavilionOuyang XiuThe clear breeze and bright moon are by nature priceless; what a pity they were sold for only forty thousand cash.
  2. Song of the Upright SpiritWen TianxiangWhen times are desperate, integrity shows itself, and one by one these deeds are handed down in the histories.
  3. Exhortation to StudyZhao Heng (traditionally attributed)to live in peace you need not build a lofty hall: in books there is a house of gold;
  4. Words for the Kitchen God OfferingFan ChengdaWe send you, drunk and well fed, up to Heaven's gate: say nothing of our long ladles and short ladles, and beg good fortune to bring back and share.

Qing

4 works

1636–1912

  1. Song of YuanyuanWu WeiyeThe six armies wailed, all clad in mourning white; but the rage that lifted his cap was for a rosy-cheeked beauty.
  2. Song on the Origin of the Way for Saving the WorldHong XiuquanThe Heavenly Father, God on High, belongs to every person alike; that all under heaven is one family has been handed down from of old.
  3. Song of the Yonghe PalaceWu WeiyeMoon over Yangzhou, flowers of Duling: along the road fragrant dust welcomes a Lihua.
  4. Song of Mandarin Duck LakeWu WeiyeOn the bank of Mandarin Duck Lake the grass clings to the sky; in the second month, deep in spring, it is good to let the boat drift.