Sayings · LT905

Aphorisms

Immortal maxims, inspirational epigrams, and ethical golden verses.

710works

11dynasties

185authors

Zhou

84 works

1046–221 BCE

  1. Do Not Impose on Others What You Do Not DesireAnonymous (Confucius's disciples and their students)Do not do to others what you would not want done to yourself; the Confucian principle of reciprocity.
  2. A Journey of a Thousand Miles Begins with a Single StepLaozi (traditionally attributed)A journey of a thousand li begins beneath one's feet.
  3. A Foot Can Fall Short, an Inch Can SufficeLiu Xiang (comp.)Zhanyin then set aside his stalks and declined, saying: 'A foot may fall short, and an inch may be long enough;
  4. Silencing the People Is Worse Than Damming a RiverZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed)Stopping the people's mouths is worse than stopping a river: when a blocked river bursts, it hurts many people;
  5. Confucius Sides with the Spring Outing by the River YiAnonymous (Confucius's disciples and their students)The Master sighed deeply and said: I am with Dian!
  6. Spring Clothes Ready in Late SpringAnonymous (Confucius's disciples and their students)In late spring, when the spring clothes are ready, with five or six young men and six or seven boys, I would bathe in the Yi, enjoy the breeze at the Rain Altar, and come home singing.
  7. Being and Non-Being Give Rise to Each OtherLaozi (traditionally attributed)Thus being and non-being give rise to each other, difficult and easy complete each other, long and short reveal each other, high and low lean on each other, note and sound harmonize, and front and back follow each other.
  8. Zilu Answers Rashly Before the MasterAnonymous (Confucius's disciples and their students)Zilu answered at once, without a moment's thought.
  9. The Perfected Person Has No SelfZhuangzi (traditionally attributed)Therefore it is said: the perfected person has no self, the spirit person has no merit, the sage has no name.
  10. Subdue the Enemy Without a BattleSun Wu (Sunzi)To win a hundred battles out of a hundred is not the highest excellence; to subdue the enemy without fighting is the highest excellence.
  11. The Morning Mushroom Never Sees a Month Begin or EndZhuangzi (traditionally attributed)The morning mushroom knows nothing of the month's first and last days, the summer cicada knows nothing of spring and autumn: these are short lives.
  12. Governing a Great State Like Cooking a Small FishLaozi (traditionally attributed)Governing a great state is like cooking a small fish.
  13. Bathing in the Yi River and Taking the Breeze at the Rain AltarAnonymous (Confucius's disciples and their students)We would bathe in the Yi, take the breeze at the Rain Altar, and come home singing.
  14. The Fire Star Sinks West in the Seventh MonthAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians)In the seventh month the Fire Star sinks west; in the ninth month winter clothes are handed out.
  15. I Share My Robe With YouAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians)Who says you have no clothes? I will share my robe with you. The king is raising an army; we mend our dagger-axes and spears. Your enemy is mine!
  16. The Neighbour's Daughter to the EastSong YuThe daughter of my eastern neighbour: add an inch and she would be too tall, take one away and she would be too short; powder would make her too white, rouge would make her too red.
  17. Profound and Never Ceasing Is Heaven's MandateAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians)The mandate of Heaven, how profound and solemn, never ceasing!
  18. Solemn and Pure Is the Ancestral TempleAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians)Ah, solemn and pure is the ancestral temple; reverent and harmonious are the illustrious assistants.
  19. Harming Others to Profit OneselfMozi (Mo Di) (traditionally attributed)Why is this? Because he harms others to profit himself.
  20. Mend Our Spears and Lances for the Common FightAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians)The king is raising his army; we mend our spears and lances. With you I share one foe!
  21. Its Leaves So Lush and ThickAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians)How young and lovely the peach tree, its leaves so lush and thick! This girl goes to her new home; she will bring harmony to the household.
  22. An Old State with an Ever-Renewed MandateAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians)Though Zhou is an ancient state, its mandate is new.
  23. Toil That Hardens Sinews and BonesMenciusSo when Heaven is about to confer a great charge on someone, it first embitters his heart, wears out his sinews and bones, starves his body, leaves him destitute and thwarts his undertakings, to rouse his mind, toughen his nature and increase his abilities.
  24. True to Its Nature, the Orange Tree Will Not MoveLiu Xiang (comp.)Fair tree of sovereign Earth, the orange came to suit this soil; bound by its charge it will not move, but grows in the southern land.
  25. Deer Calling to One Another in the WildsAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians)The deer call to one another, eating wormwood in the wilds. I have honoured guests; for them the zither is strummed and the pipes are blown.
  26. Harmony Gives Birth to All ThingsZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed)Harmony truly gives birth to things; sameness cannot continue.
  27. Skilled at Making Use of ThingsXunzi (Xun Kuang)The gentleman is not different from others by birth; he is simply skilled at making use of things.
  28. The One I Seek, Across the WaterAnonymous (comp.)The one of whom I speak is somewhere across the water.
  29. Chop, Chop, Felling Sandalwood by the RiverAnonymous (comp.)Chop, chop, we fell the sandalwood and set it on the river's bank; the river water is clear and rippling.
  30. A Single Note Makes No Music: Shi Bo on HarmonyZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed)A single note makes no music, a single colour no pattern, a single flavour no fine taste, and a single thing allows no comparison.
  31. Lowered by Rope at Night: Zhu Zhiwu Turns Back QinZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed)He agreed. At night he was let down from the wall on a rope and went out.
  32. The Greatest Wrong Called Right: Mozi Against Aggressive WarMozi (Mo Di) (traditionally attributed)Now when it comes to the greatest wrong, attacking a state, they do not condemn it but praise it and call it right.
  33. All the Realm in Mourning White: Tang Ju Defies the King of QinLiu Xiang (comp.)If a true man must be angry, two corpses fall, blood flows five paces, and all the realm puts on mourning white; and today is that day.
  34. Heaven Sent the Dark Bird to Bring Forth ShangAnonymous (comp.)Heaven commanded the dark bird to come down and bring forth Shang, who dwelt in the land of Yin, vast and wide.
  35. Heaven's Course Is Constant: Xunzi on NatureXunzi (Xun Kuang)Heaven's course is constant: it did not persist for Yao, nor perish for Jie.
  36. Losing the Original Heart: Mencius on Fish and Bear's PawMenciusCan this not be stopped? This is called losing one's original heart.
  37. Bringing Harmony to Her New Home: The Peach Blossom BrideAnonymous (comp.)This girl goes to her new home; she will bring harmony to her household.
  38. The Wrath of a Man in Plain Cloth: Tang Ju Answers the King of QinLiu Xiang (comp.)Has Your Majesty heard of the wrath of a man in plain cloth?
  39. O Distant Blue HeavenAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians)O distant blue heaven, who has brought this about!
  40. Removing Troubles and Easing Hardships for OthersLiu Xiang (comp.)What is prized in a gentleman of the world is that he removes others' troubles, eases their hardships and settles their disputes while taking nothing.
  41. Bound Together Through Life and Death, Near or ApartAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians)In life or death, together or apart, we made our pledge: I would hold your hand and grow old with you.
  42. The Nine Divisions of the Great PlanAnonymous (records of court scribes of Yu, Xia, Shang and Zhou; traditionally edited by Confucius)Heaven then granted Yu the Great Plan in nine divisions, and the constant norms were set in order.
  43. A Host of Able Men Around King WenAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians)In dignified throngs the many officers stand, and through them King Wen has peace.
  44. Deep Roots That Will Not Be Transplanted: Ode to the OrangeLiu Xiang (comp.)Deep-rooted and hard to move, its will is all the more single.
  45. Peach Blossoms Blazing Bright: A Bride's SongAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians)The peach tree young and tender, blazing bright its blossoms.
  46. Standing Alone and Unmoved Like the Orange TreeLiu Xiang (comp.)Standing alone and unmoved, is that not a joy?
  47. Fair and Delicate: the Worshipper of the Xiang River SpiritLiu Xiang (comp.)Fair and delicate, fittingly adorned, swiftly I ride in my cassia boat.
  48. Trying the Heart and Will: Mencius on Heaven's Great ChargeMenciusWhen Heaven is about to confer a great charge on someone, it first makes their heart and will suffer and wears out their sinews and bones.
  49. Plants and Trees Shake and Fall: Song Yu's Sorrow of AutumnSong YuHow sad is the air of autumn! Bleak and chill, the plants and trees shake, fall and wither.
  50. Even a Passer-by Refuses: Mencius on Food Given with ContemptMenciusGiven with a contemptuous shout, a passer-by will not accept them; kicked over to you, a beggar will disdain them.
  51. Slow Is Our Road Home: the Returning Soldier of Cai WeiAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians)Slow is our road, we thirst and we hunger. My heart is grieved; no one knows my sorrow!
  52. Establishing Offices and Dividing Duties: the Opening of the Rites of ZhouDuke of Zhou (traditionally attributed)Only the king establishes the state: he distinguishes the directions and fixes the positions, lays out the capital and the countryside, establishes offices and divides duties, as a standard for the people.
  53. Off to That Happy LandAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians)We swear we will leave you and go to that happy land; happy land, happy land, there we shall find our place.
  54. The Way Is Hard and LongAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians)Upstream I go to find that person, but the way is hard and long; downstream I go to find that person, who seems to be in the middle of the water.
  55. The Glory of the NationAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians)On the southern hills are mulberries, on the northern hills poplars; joyful gentlemen, the glory of the land.
  56. Gathering Plantain, Gathering PlantainAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians)Pick, pick the plantain, come and pick it; pick, pick the plantain, now we have some.
  57. Kneeling Upright to Apologise: Tang Ju Faces the King of QinLiu Xiang (comp.)The King of Qin's face fell; he rose upright on his knees and apologised, saying, 'Please sit, sir; why go so far? I understand.'
  58. Snow Falling Thick on the Road HomeAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians)When I left long ago, the willows swayed softly; now as I return, the snow falls thick and fast.
  59. Plucking the Zither and Playing the Reed Pipes for GuestsAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians)Yoo-yoo the deer are calling, eating the wormwood of the plain. I have honoured guests; we pluck the zither and blow the reed pipes.
  60. The Whole World Muddy, I Alone ClearLiu Xiang (comp.)The whole world is muddy and I alone am clear; all men are drunk and I alone am sober; that is why I was banished.
  61. Affairs Succeed in Secrecy, Fail by Loose TalkHan FeiAffairs succeed through secrecy and fail when words leak out.
  62. Two Bodies Fall, Blood Flows Five PacesLiu Xiang (comp.)If a man of resolve is truly roused, two bodies will fall and blood will flow five paces, and the whole world will wear mourning white; today is such a day.
  63. Master Heaven's Decree and Put It to UseXunzi (Xun Kuang)Rather than obey Heaven and sing its praises, why not master Heaven's decree and put it to use!
  64. The King's Mighty WindSong Yu (traditionally attributed)This is what is called the king's mighty wind.
  65. The World Belongs to All, Not to One ManJiang Ziya (the Grand Duke) (traditionally attributed)The world is not one man's world; it is the world's world.
  66. As if in the Middle of the WaterAnonymous (Folk song of Qin)Upstream I follow, the way is hard and long; downstream I follow, and there she seems to stand, in the middle of the water.
  67. Silencing the People's CriticismZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed)The king was pleased and told the Duke of Shao: 'I have been able to stop the criticism; they dare not speak.'
  68. Victory Won at CourtLiu Xiang (comp.)When Yan, Zhao, Han and Wei heard of this, they all came to pay homage to Qi. This is what is called a victory won at court.
  69. Holding Your Hand, to Grow Old with YouAnonymous (Folk song of Wey)In life or death, together or apart, I made my promise to you: I will hold your hand and grow old with you.
  70. Hard-Pressed Like the Nest-Building BirdAnonymous (Book of Songs poet; traditionally the Duke of Zhou)My claws are cramped with toil as I gather rush flowers.
  71. Banners Blotting Out the SunLiu Xiang (comp.)Banners blot out the sun, the enemy comes like clouds; arrows fall back and forth, and the warriors press forward.
  72. Your Majesty Is Deeply Deceived: Zou Ji's Mirror LessonLiu Xiang (comp.)Seen in this light, Your Majesty is deeply deceived!
  73. Master Dengtu: How a Slanderer Became a Byword for LecherySong Yu (traditionally attributed)The grandee Master Dengtu, attending on the King of Chu, disparaged Song Yu: Yu is handsome and graceful in person, full of subtle words, and lustful by nature.
  74. Those Who Know Me Say My Heart Is Grieved: The Drooping MilletAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians)Those who know me say my heart is grieved; those who do not know me ask what I am seeking.
  75. Big Rat, Do Not Eat My Millet: A Peasant's ProtestAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians)Big rat, big rat, do not eat my millet!
  76. Eating Without Working: The Sandalwood Cutters' ComplaintAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians)Those gentlemen, oh, they do not eat for nothing!
  77. Treat Others' Elders as Your Own: Mencius on Extending KindnessMenciusTreat your own aged as aged, and extend it to the aged of others; treat your own young as young, and extend it to the young of others; then the realm can be turned in the palm of your hand.
  78. Medicine That Does Not Daze Will Not Cure: King Wu Ding's Charge to Fu YueAnonymous (records of court scribes of Yu, Xia, Shang and Zhou; traditionally edited by Confucius)Open your heart and water mine. If medicine does not make one dizzy, the illness will not be cured.
  79. Planning Far Ahead for One's Children: Chulong Persuades the Queen DowagerLiu Xiang (comp.)When parents love their children, they plan far ahead for them.
  80. The Road Ahead Is Long and Far: Qu Yuan's Endless SearchLiu Xiang (comp.)The road ahead is long and far; I will search for it high and low.
  81. The Reversed Scales Under the Dragon's Throat: Han Fei on PersuasionHan FeiRulers too have reversed scales; if a persuader can avoid brushing against them, he is close to success.
  82. Take People, Not Water, as Your Mirror: Wu Zixu's Warning to FuchaiZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed)Why does Your Majesty not take people as your mirror, rather than water?
  83. Condemning Offensive War: Mozi's Argument from Stolen PeachesMozi (Mo Di) (traditionally attributed)But when the great wrong of attacking a state is done, they do not know to condemn it, and instead praise it and call it righteous.
  84. Heroes Among the Ghosts: Qu Yuan's Hymn for the FallenLiu Xiang (comp.)Though their bodies are dead, their spirits are potent; their unbending souls are heroes among the ghosts!

Han

87 works

202 BCE – 220 CE

  1. An Old Hero's Heart Still BurnsCao CaoA man of high purpose in his twilight years does not let his great heart rest.
  2. Uncarved Jade Makes No VesselDai Sheng (comp.)Jade that is not carved does not become a vessel;
  3. Peach and Plum Trees Say Nothing, Yet Paths Form Beneath ThemSima QianA proverb says: 'Peach and plum trees do not speak, yet a path forms beneath them of itself.'
  4. Idle in Youth, Grieving in Old AgeAnonymous (Han yuefu)If you do not exert yourself while young and strong, in old age you will grieve in vain.
  5. Fortune Lies Within MisfortuneJia YiMisfortune is what good fortune leans upon; good fortune is where misfortune lies hidden;
  6. Teaching From Behind a Lowered CurtainSima QianHe lectured behind a lowered curtain; his disciples passed the teaching on in order of seniority, and some never saw his face.
  7. Nine Times Assembling the Lords for Duke HuanSima QianOnce Guan Zhong was employed and ran the government of Qi, Duke Huan became overlord, assembling the lords nine times and setting all under heaven to rights; this was Guan Zhong's planning.
  8. One Script for the Whole Qin EmpireSima QianHe unified laws, weights and measures; carts shared one axle width; writing used one script.
  9. Wei Qing: Born a Slave, Content to Escape the WhipSima QianBorn a slave, I am content if I escape beatings and curses; how could I hope to become a marquis!
  10. All the World Drunk, Qu Yuan Alone SoberSima QianThe whole world is muddy and I alone am clean; all men are drunk and I alone am sober; that is why I was banished.
  11. Let the Ruler Be a Ruler and the Minister a MinisterSima QianDuke Jing asked Confucius about government. Confucius said: let the ruler be a ruler, the minister a minister, the father a father, the son a son.
  12. Sacrifice Atop Mount LangjuxuSima QianHe sacrificed to Heaven on Mount Langjuxu, to Earth at Guyan, and climbed to gaze over the Hanhai.
  13. Cooking With Pots Hung Above the FloodSima QianInside the city they cooked with their pots hung up, and exchanged children to eat.
  14. Fan Kuai Bursts Through the Palace DoorSima QianAfter more than ten days, Kuai pushed open the door and went straight in, and the ministers followed him.
  15. Zhuo Wenjun Tending the Wine CounterSima QianHe bought a tavern to sell wine, and had Wenjun tend the counter.
  16. A Hero's Heart Undimmed in Old AgeCao CaoA man of ambition in his twilight years: his bold heart never ceases.
  17. Teeth Worn Down Like an Old Dog's or Horse'sBan ZhaoThough he wishes to exert all his strength to repay the emperor's kindness, he is pressed by the end of his years, his teeth worn out like an old dog's or horse's.
  18. Zilu Ties His Cap Strings and DiesSima QianZilu said, 'A gentleman does not let his cap fall even in death.' Then he tied his cap strings and died.
  19. Qin, a State of Tigers and WolvesSima QianQin is a state of tigers and wolves, with a heart to swallow the whole world.
  20. Vying with Sun and Moon: Sima Qian's Praise of Qu YuanSima QianConsidering such aims, one may well say they vie with the sun and moon in brightness.
  21. Full Granaries Make People Mindful of ProprietySima QianWhen granaries are full, people know propriety; when food and clothing suffice, they know honour and shame.
  22. While the Xiongnu Remain, I Will Not Think of a HomeSima QianThe Xiongnu are not yet destroyed; I have no use for a home.
  23. So Should a True Man LiveSima QianAh! This is how a true man should be!
  24. Great Deeds Need Not Mind Small ScruplesSima QianGreat deeds need not mind small scruples, and great courtesy need not bother with small politeness.
  25. The Peacock Flies to the SoutheastAnonymous (Han–Wei folk yuefu)The peacock flies to the southeast; every five li it turns and lingers.
  26. A Poor Home Longs for a Good Wife, a Troubled State for a Good MinisterSima QianWhen the family is poor one longs for a good wife; when the state is in disorder one longs for a good minister.
  27. Chasing an Empty Name to Suffer Real DisasterCao CaoTherefore I cannot chase an empty name and suffer real disaster; this I must not do.
  28. To Found a Distinct School of ThoughtSima QianI wished thereby to probe the boundary between heaven and humanity, to trace the changes of past and present, and to found a school of my own.
  29. Chao Cuo, the Crown Prince's Bag of WisdomSima QianBecause of his eloquence he won the crown prince's favour, and the prince's household called him the bag of wisdom.
  30. Laozi Is Like a Dragon Beyond GraspSima QianToday I have seen Laozi: is he not like a dragon!
  31. Are Kings, Lords, Generals and Ministers a Breed ApartSima QianA brave man either does not die, or if he dies, dies for a great name. Are kings, lords, generals and ministers a breed apart?
  32. Never Parting Until Our Hair Turns WhiteZhuo Wenjun (traditionally attributed)I wish only for one true-hearted love, and never to part until our hair is white.
  33. Coming to Break Off with You for GoodZhuo Wenjun (traditionally attributed)I hear you are of two minds, so I have come to part from you for good.
  34. Zhou Yafu, a True General at Xiliu CampSima QianAh, this is a true general!
  35. Probing Heaven and Humanity, Comprehending Change Past and PresentSima QianI wished also to probe the boundary between heaven and humanity, to comprehend the changes of past and present, and to form a school of my own.
  36. Severing the Veins of the EarthSima QianFrom Lintao to Liaodong I built walls and moats over ten thousand li; how could they not have cut the veins of the earth somewhere? This is my crime.
  37. Insides Twisting Nine Times a DaySima QianSo my insides twist nine times a day; at home I am dazed as if I had lost something, and when I go out I do not know where I am going.
  38. Hanging Himself from the Southeast BoughAnonymous (Han–Wei folk yuefu)He paced to and fro beneath the courtyard tree, then hanged himself from its southeast bough.
  39. Qin, a Tiger-and-Wolf StateSima QianDo not go, my king; raise troops and guard your own land. Qin is a tiger and wolf that cannot be trusted; it means to swallow all the other states.
  40. Son of the Red Emperor Who Slew the White SnakeSima QianI weep because my son, the son of the White Emperor, took the form of a snake and lay across the road, and now he has been cut down by the son of the Red Emperor.
  41. Uniform Axle Widths Across Qin's EmpireSima QianHe unified the laws and the standards of weight and length. Carts were given one axle width. Writing was given one script.
  42. Carving Dragons in ProseSima QianSo the people of Qi made a rhyme: heaven-talking Yan, dragon-carving Shi, Kun with wit that flows like axle grease.
  43. The Wind Moans and the Yi River Runs ColdSima QianThe wind moans, the Yi River is cold; the hero goes, and he will never return!
  44. Li Guang, the Flying General of HanSima QianWhen Li Guang was posted to Youbeiping, the Xiongnu heard of it and called him the flying general of the Han; they kept away for several years and dared not enter Youbeiping.
  45. Like an Unmoored Boat AdriftJia YiCalm as the stillness of a deep pool, drifting like a boat with no mooring.
  46. Competing With the People for ProfitHuan Kuan (comp.)Now the commanderies and kingdoms have monopolies on salt, iron and liquor, and equable transport, competing with the people for profit.
  47. Letting the People Rest and RecoverBan GuWhen the Han arose, it swept away the harsh and complicated laws and let the people rest.
  48. The Fair Month of Mid-SpringZhang HengThen in mid-spring, the fair month, the season is mild and the air is clear.
  49. Hiding True Feelings to Win a NameBan GuSuch was his concealment of his true feelings to win a name.
  50. Heaven and Earth as a Furnace: Jia Yi's Owl RhapsodyJia YiHeaven and earth are the furnace, creation is the smith; yin and yang are the charcoal, and all things are the copper.
  51. Might Across the Land: Liu Bang's Song of the Great WindLiu BangA great wind rises, the clouds fly up; my might spreads over all within the seas, and I return to my home town.
  52. Hoeing with the Classic at Hand: Ni Kuan's DiligenceBan GuHe often hired himself out as a labourer, hoeing with the classic at hand and reading it whenever he rested; such was his dedication.
  53. Mid-Spring Days of Mild Air and Clear SkiesZhang HengAnd so, in the fine month of mid-spring, the season is mild and the air is clear.
  54. A True Gentleman Is Father and Mother to the PeopleEmperor Wen of HanThe Book of Songs says: 'The kindly, gentle ruler is father and mother to the people.'
  55. To Pass the Jade Gate Alive: Ban Chao's PleaBan ChaoI dare not hope to reach Jiuquan commandery; I wish only to enter the Jade Gate alive.
  56. Autumn Trees Thick, Their Leaves Turning Yellow: Wang Zhaojun's LamentWang Zhaojun (traditionally attributed)The autumn trees are thick, their leaves withering yellow.
  57. Nature the Smith at Heaven and Earth's FurnaceJia YiHeaven and earth are the furnace and nature the smith; yin and yang are the charcoal and all things the copper.
  58. Dead in the Wilds and Left UnburiedAnonymous (Han guchui music)We fought south of the wall and died north of the city; dead in the wilds and unburied, we are food for the crows.
  59. Fish at Play Among the Lotus LeavesAnonymous (Han lotus pickers)South of the river we can pick the lotus; how lush the lotus leaves are! The fish play among the lotus leaves.
  60. Owls Soaring High While Phoenixes HideJia YiPhoenixes hide and flee, while owls soar on high; the dull and worthless are honoured, and slanderers and flatterers have their way.
  61. Phoenixes Driven into HidingJia YiAlas, how sad, to meet such an ill-starred time! Phoenixes hide and flee, while owls soar on high.
  62. Setting Down Their Loads to Stroke Their Beards at LuofuAnonymous (Han folk yuefu)Passers-by who see Luofu set down their loads and stroke their beards; young men who see Luofu take off their caps and straighten their headbands.
  63. Fear Not Poverty but Unequal SharesHuan KuanThose who rule a state or a house do not worry about poverty but about unequal shares, not about small numbers but about unrest.
  64. Graves Heaped Among the PinesAnonymous (Han yuefu folk song)Look far off: that is your home, where among the pines and cypresses the graves lie heaped.
  65. So Long Since We PartedAnonymous (anonymous late Eastern Han literati)What is so precious about this thing? I only feel how long it is since we parted.
  66. Do Your Best to Eat WellAnonymous (anonymous late Eastern Han literati)Let me say no more of what is cast aside; just do your best to eat well.
  67. Sent to War at FifteenAnonymous (Han yuefu folk song)At fifteen I went off to war; at eighty I was able to come home.
  68. A Pair of Calling CranesAnonymous (anonymous late Eastern Han literati)Let us become a pair of calling cranes, beat our wings and rise to fly on high.
  69. The Great Unity of the RealmBan GuThe great unity honoured in the Spring and Autumn Annals is the constant law of heaven and earth and the common principle of past and present.
  70. Building on the Legacy of Six GenerationsJia YiWhen it came to the First Emperor, he carried forward the legacy of six generations, cracked his long whip to drive the world before him, swallowed the two Zhou and destroyed the feudal lords.
  71. If You Do Not Strive While YoungAnonymous (Han yuefu folk song)If you do not strive while young, you will grieve in vain when old.
  72. Fighting South of the City WallAnonymous (Han yuefu cymbal song)We fought south of the city and died north of the walls; dead in the wilds and unburied, we are food for the crows.
  73. Humbling Himself to Be Respectful and FrugalBan GuWang Mang alone was isolated and poor, and so he humbled himself and became respectful and frugal.
  74. Pointing at White and Calling It BlackDong ZhongshuThose people form a numerous crowd; they point at what is white and call it black.
  75. Cutting Wood for Weapons, Raising Poles for BannersJia YiThey cut down trees for weapons and raised poles as banners; the world gathered like clouds and answered like an echo, shouldering grain and following like shadows.
  76. Better to Hurry Home EarlyAnonymous (anonymous late Eastern Han literati)They say travelling is pleasant, but it is better to go home early.
  77. There Is One I Long ForAnonymous (Han yuefu cymbal song)There is one I long for, who is far south of the great sea.
  78. Crossing the River to Pick Lotus for One Far AwayAnonymous (Eastern Han literati)I wade the river to pick lotus; the orchid marsh is full of fragrant plants. To whom shall I give what I gather? The one I long for is on a distant road.
  79. Parted While Both Still Live: The First of the Nineteen Old PoemsAnonymous (Eastern Han literati)On and on you go, ever on; you and I are parted while both still live.
  80. A Tiger When Used, a Mouse When Not: Dongfang Shuo's ReplyDongfang ShuoUse him and he becomes a tiger; leave him unused and he becomes a mouse.
  81. A Hundred Rivers Run East and Never Return: The Long SongAnonymous (Han yuefu)A hundred rivers flow east to the sea; when will they ever flow west again?
  82. Grieving That Those Who Truly Hear Are Few: The High Tower in the NorthwestAnonymous (Eastern Han literati)I do not pity the singer for her pain; I only grieve that those who truly hear her are few.
  83. Idle in Youth, Grieving in Vain in Old AgeAnonymous (Han yuefu)If you do not strive while young and strong, in old age you will grieve in vain.
  84. The Northern Horse Leans Toward the North WindAnonymous (Eastern Han literati)The northern horse leans toward the north wind; the southern bird nests on the southward bough.
  85. Gazing Across the River of Stars, Unable to SpeakAnonymous (Eastern Han literati)Just one clear, brimming river lies between them; they gaze in silence and cannot speak.
  86. On and On, Ever Onward ApartAnonymous (Eastern Han literati)On and on you go, ever on; you and I are parted while both still live.
  87. Warm Spring Spreads Its Bounty to All ThingsAnonymous (Han yuefu)Warm spring spreads its bounty, and all things shine with life.

Three Kingdoms

25 works

220–280

  1. Bending to the Task Until DeathZhuge LiangI will bend myself to the task with all my strength and stop only at death; as for success or failure, advantage or setback, that is beyond what my wisdom can foresee.
  2. Eastward to Jieshi to Gaze on the SeaCao CaoEastward I come to Jieshi, to gaze upon the blue sea.
  3. Weeping Before the Memorial on Departing for WarZhuge LiangNow that I must go far away, I weep as I face this memorial, and do not know what I have said.
  4. Crows and Magpies Flying South by MoonlightCao CaoThe moon is bright and the stars are few; crows and magpies fly south.
  5. Heaven Is Unkind: Cai Wenji's LamentCai Yan (Cai Wenji) (traditionally attributed)Heaven is unkind to send down chaos and separation; Earth is unkind to make me meet such times.
  6. Graceful as a Swimming DragonCao ZhiHer form is light as a startled wild goose, supple as a swimming dragon.
  7. The Courses of Sun and Moon Rising from the SeaCao CaoThe courses of the sun and moon seem to rise from within it.
  8. The Brilliant River of StarsCao CaoThe brilliant Milky Way seems to spring from its depths.
  9. Singing to Voice One's AspirationsCao CaoHow fortunate, how glorious; I sing to voice my aspirations.
  10. Life Is Like the Morning DewCao CaoFacing wine, one should sing; how long is a human life? It is like the morning dew; the days gone by are all too many.
  11. Blue, Blue Is Your Collar: Cao Cao's Longing for TalentCao CaoBlue, blue is your collar; long, long is my longing. Only for your sake have I gone on murmuring to this day.
  12. Grown from the Same RootCao ZhiWe grew from the same root; why must you cook me so fiercely?
  13. Let Your Aims Be Lofty and Far-ReachingZhuge LiangOne's aims should be lofty and far-reaching: admire the worthies of old, cut off desires, cast away doubts and hindrances, so that the aspiration to approach them stands clearly in the heart and is deeply felt.
  14. Laying Down One's Life in the Nation's Hour of PerilCao ZhiHe gives his life to meet the nation's peril, and looks on death as going home.
  15. A Beauty Both Lovely and SereneCao ZhiA beauty, lovely and serene, picks mulberry leaves where the road divides.
  16. The Gateway to All MysteriesWang BiThese two come forth together but differ in name; both are called mysterious. Mystery upon mystery: the gateway to all wonders.
  17. Music Holds No Sorrow or Joy: Ji Kang's ThesisJi KangNow you alone hold that music has no sorrow or joy; on what grounds do you say so?
  18. Free of Care When the Heart Is ContentJi KangThey move with the season, content, forgetting care.
  19. The Autumn Wind Blows Bleak: Cao Pi's Song of YanCao PiThe autumn wind blows bleak and the air turns cold; plants and trees shed their leaves and dew turns to frost.
  20. Writing as an Undying GloryCao PiWriting is a great enterprise in governing the state, a glorious deed that does not perish.
  21. No Good Deed Too Small to DoLiu BeiDo not do wrong because it is small; do not leave good undone because it is small.
  22. No Wrong Too Small to ShunLiu BeiDo not do wrong because it is small; do not leave good undone because it is small.
  23. The Long Night Not Yet EndedCao PiThe bright moon shines white on my bed; the river of stars flows west, and the night is not yet ended.
  24. In Writing, Vital Energy Comes FirstCao PiIn writing, vital energy is the chief thing; whether that energy is clear or turbid has its own nature and cannot be achieved by force.
  25. Keeping the Empty Room Alone: Cao Pi's Song of YanCao PiAlone I keep to the empty room; when sorrow comes I think of you and dare not forget, and before I know it my tears have soaked my clothes.

Jin

21 works

265–420

  1. Indifferent to Glory and GainTao YuanmingQuiet and calm, sparing of words, he did not covet glory or profit.
  2. Rejoicing in Heaven's Decree Without DoubtTao YuanmingLet me ride the flow of change to the end, rejoicing in heaven's decree; what is there to doubt?
  3. Young and Old Gathered at the Orchid PavilionWang XizhiAll the worthies have arrived; young and old are gathered together.
  4. Joyfully Forgetting Meals over a Good BookTao YuanmingHe loved reading but did not fuss over every detail; whenever he grasped the meaning, he was so delighted that he forgot to eat.
  5. Clear Streams and Rushing Rapids at the Orchid PavilionWang XizhiThere were also clear streams and rushing rapids, shining and winding on either side.
  6. All the Worthies Gathered at the Orchid PavilionWang XizhiAll the worthies have come; the young and the old are gathered here.
  7. Mistakenly Caught in the Dusty NetTao YuanmingBy mistake I fell into the dusty net, and was gone for thirty years.
  8. Picking Chrysanthemums by the Eastern HedgeTao YuanmingPicking chrysanthemums by the eastern hedge, at ease I catch sight of the southern hills.
  9. Returned to Nature at LastTao YuanmingLong kept within a cage, I have returned at last to nature.
  10. Unhurried, I Catch Sight of the Southern HillsTao YuanmingPicking chrysanthemums beneath the eastern fence, unhurried, I catch sight of the southern hills.
  11. Knowing the Days to Come Can Still Be Set RightTao YuanmingI see that the past cannot be mended, and know that the future can still be pursued.
  12. Arms Reaching Below the Knees: Liu Bei's Remarkable LooksChen ShouHe was seven chi five cun tall; his hands hung below his knees, and turning his head he could see his own ears.
  13. Song Dingbo Sells a GhostGan Bao (comp.)Dingbo sold a ghost and got fifteen hundred coins.
  14. Attack Needs Double the Strength of DefenceChen ShouSince the attacker needs twice the strength of the defender, he will not dare stay long.
  15. Struck With Fear at the First Sign of the EnemyChen ShouThose in council were all struck with fear at the first sign of the enemy, and many urged Sun Quan to welcome Cao Cao.
  16. Arrows Pour Like Rain at GuanduChen ShouYuan Shao shot into the camp, arrows poured down like rain, all who walked held shields over their heads, and the men were terrified.
  17. Jackals and Wolves Fill the Roads: Zhang Zhao Rouses Sun QuanChen ShouNow that villains vie with one another and jackals and wolves fill the roads, you wish to mourn your kin and attend to the rites; that is like opening the gate and bowing to robbers.
  18. Punish the Wicked and Encourage the GoodDu YuThe fifth is to punish evil and encourage good: those who sought fame and lost it, and those who tried to hide and were exposed.
  19. All Things Gathered at the Tip of the BrushLu JiHe encloses heaven and earth within form and brings all things under control at the tip of his brush.
  20. Enclosing Heaven and Earth Within Form: Lu Ji's Rhapsody on WritingLu JiHe encloses heaven and earth within the form, and presses all things beneath the tip of his brush.
  21. White Brows Is the Best of the Five Ma BrothersChen ShouThe villagers made a saying about them: of the five Changs of the Ma family, White Brows is the best.

Northern and Southern

52 works

420–589

  1. The Sky Like a Domed Yurt Over the GrasslandAnonymous (Northern Dynasties folk song)The sky is like a domed felt tent, covering the plains on every side.
  2. Sky and Mountains Share One HueWu JunWind and mist have all cleared away; sky and mountains share one color.
  3. Wondrous Peaks and Rare Waters of the FuchunWu JunFrom Fuyang to Tonglu, a hundred li or so, the wondrous mountains and rare waters are unmatched in all the world.
  4. Peering into the Valleys and Forgetting to ReturnWu JunThose who manage the world's affairs, peering into these valleys, forget to return.
  5. Wind and Haze Swept Clean over the Fuchun RiverWu JunWind and haze were all swept clean; sky and hills shared one colour.
  6. Mulan Crosses Passes and Mountains as if FlyingAnonymous (Northern Dynasties folk song)Ten thousand li she rode to the business of war, crossing passes and mountains as if flying.
  7. The Chile Plain Beneath the Yin MountainsAnonymous (Northern Dynasties folk song)The Chile Plain lies beneath the Yin Mountains.
  8. Wind Bends the Grass to Reveal the HerdsAnonymous (Northern Dynasties folk song)The sky is deep blue, the plain is boundless; the wind bends the grass and the cattle and sheep appear.
  9. Cliffs Where Five Colours Shine TogetherTao HongjingOn both banks the stone cliffs shine together in five colours.
  10. Entering the Fish Market and No Longer Smelling the StenchXiao GangSo those who gallop on their hunches and love fame over substance carve meat from the benevolent beast and play Xi Ke at Handan; they enter the fish market and forget its stench, and copying faults brings them disaster.
  11. Entrusted with a Young Orphan RulerFan YeDeng Yu, Marquis of Gaomi, is foremost among the founding ministers, and Cang, King of Dongping, is generous and resourceful; both can receive the charge of a young orphan and stand unbending at a great crisis.
  12. Governing the Realm Together with the RulerSu ChuoTherefore emperors of former ages always said that those who governed the realm together with them were only good prefects and governors.
  13. Diligence Keeps Want AwayJia SixieThe commentary says: 'Life depends on diligence; with diligence there is no want.'
  14. Swallowing One's Words and Pacing in SilenceBao ZhaoMy heart is not wood or stone; how can it feel nothing? I swallow my words and pace in silence, not daring to speak.
  15. Singing Out One's Feelings and NatureXiao GangI have never heard of poems that sing of feeling imitating the Domestic Regulations chapter instead.
  16. The Beauty of Hills and Streams: Tao Hongjing's LetterTao HongjingThe beauty of hills and streams has been talked of by all since ancient times.
  17. A Heart Not Made of Wood or StoneBao ZhaoThe heart is not wood or stone; how can it feel nothing? I swallow my voice and pace, not daring to speak.
  18. Thought Reaching Across a Thousand YearsLiu XieSitting still and concentrating, thought links up with a thousand years; quietly changing countenance, vision passes through ten thousand li.
  19. Spirit Vigorous and Bright in WritingLiu XieWhen the language is upright and firm, the bone of the writing is formed; when the spirit is vigorous and bright, its wind is clear.
  20. Drawing a Sword to Strike the PillarBao ZhaoFacing my table I cannot eat; I draw my sword, strike the pillar and sigh long.
  21. Stirring the Heart into Song and DanceZhong RongBreath moves things, and things move people; so the feelings are stirred and take form in dance and song.
  22. Great Is the Power of Literary PatternLiu XieGreat indeed is the power of pattern! How is it that it was born together with heaven and earth?
  23. The Willows I Planted in Years Gone ByYu XinThe willows planted in years gone by swayed softly south of the Han; now I see them shedding their leaves, a bleak sight by the river's pools. If trees fare so, how can people bear it!
  24. Spring Grass Green at the Southern Shore of PartingJiang YanSpring grass is green, spring water ripples clear; seeing you off at the southern shore, how can I bear this grief!
  25. Staff in Hand, Crossing North to Follow Liu XiuFan YeWhen he heard that Liu Xiu was pacifying the lands north of the river, he took up his staff and crossed north, catching up with him at Ye.
  26. The Vital Breath Stirs All ThingsZhong RongThe vital breath moves things, and things move people; so feelings are stirred and find expression in dance and song.
  27. Wild Blossoms Filling the Room in Yu Xin's Small GardenYu XinFallen leaves cover half the bed, wild blossoms fill the room.
  28. Arrows Rain Down on KunyangFan YeMassed crossbows fired at will, arrows fell like rain, and in the city people carried doors on their backs to fetch water.
  29. How Hard It Is to Find a True Listener: Liu Xie's LamentLiu XieHow hard it is to find a true listener! The music is hard to know, those who know it hard to meet; to meet one happens once in a thousand years!
  30. Lavish Ornament, Scant Feeling: Liu Xie on Hollow WritingLiu XieLavish in ornament and scant in feeling, it is sure to weary those who savour it.
  31. Framing Words Straight and Upright: Liu Xie's Bone of WritingLiu XieWhen words are framed straight and upright, the bone of writing is formed; when the spirit is brisk and vigorous, its wind is clear.
  32. Creeping Weeds Twine Round the Bones: Jiang Yan's Rhapsody on RegretJiang YanLook out across the plain: creeping weeds twine round the bones, and great trees gather the souls.
  33. Vision Reaching Ten Thousand Li: Liu Xie on the ImaginationLiu XieIn silent concentration, thought joins a thousand years; with a quiet change of countenance, vision reaches ten thousand li.
  34. Seeing You Off at the Southern ShoreJiang YanThe spring grass is green, the spring water ripples clear; I see you off at the southern shore, and how can I bear the grief!
  35. The Patterning of the Dao in NatureLiu XieSun and moon, like paired discs of jade, hang down the bright images of heaven; mountains and rivers, gleaming like brocade, spread out the ordered forms of earth. This is the patterning of the Dao.
  36. Leaping City Walls and Clearing Moats: Lü Bu's Red HareFan YeBu always rode a fine horse called Red Hare, which could gallop over city walls and leap across moats.
  37. Telling River Trees Apart Among the CloudsXie TiaoAt the sky's edge I recognise returning boats; among the clouds I make out the river trees.
  38. First Spring Light Displaces the Lingering WindXie LingyunThe first light of spring displaces the lingering wind; the new sun changes the old shade.
  39. South Wind, Blow My Dream to West IsleAnonymous (Southern Dynasties yuefu folk song)South wind, if you know my heart, blow my dream to the Western Islet.
  40. Why Walk Timidly with Drooping Wings?Bao ZhaoHow long does a man have in this life? How can he shuffle along with drooping wings!
  41. Alone and Upright, Like UsBao ZhaoSince ancient times the sages have all been poor and lowly; how much more men like us, alone and upright!
  42. Pattern Rests on SubstanceLiu XieWater is yielding by nature, and ripples form on it; wood is solid in substance, and blossoms open on it: pattern rests on substance.
  43. Catkins Rising on the Wind: Xie Daoyun's Snow SimileLiu Yiqing (comp.)Better to liken it to willow catkins rising on the wind.
  44. A Fairyland in the Realm of Desire: Tao Hongjing's Mountain LetterTao HongjingThis is truly a fairyland in the realm of desire. Since the Duke of Kangle, no one has been able to share in its wonders.
  45. Water Poured on Level Ground Runs Every Way: Bao Zhao on FateBao ZhaoPour water on level ground and it flows off east, west, south and north. Human life too is ruled by fate; how can I sigh as I walk and grieve as I sit?
  46. Ascending the Dragon Gate: An Audience with Li YingFan YeAny scholar who was received by him was said to have ascended the Dragon Gate.
  47. What Does the Falling Snow Resemble? Xie An's Question to His FamilyLiu Yiqing (comp.)Suddenly the snow came down hard, and the Duke asked with delight: what does the swirling white snow resemble?
  48. Lotus Seeds Clear as Water: The Song of West IsletAnonymous (Southern Dynasties folk song)She bends her head to play with the lotus seeds; the lotus seeds are as clear as water.
  49. Marquis Cai's Paper: Cai Lun's Gift to WritingFan YeAnd so everyone under heaven called it Marquis Cai's paper.
  50. Shattering the Coral with an Iron Ruyi: Shi Chong's Contest of WealthLiu Yiqing (comp.)When Shi Chong had looked at it, he struck it with an iron ruyi, and it shattered at the blow.
  51. Heaven Dark and Earth YellowZhou XingsiHeaven is dark, earth is yellow; the universe is vast and primeval.
  52. The Universe Vast and PrimevalZhou XingsiHeaven is dark, earth is yellow; the universe is vast and primeval.

Tang

177 works

618–907

  1. One Man Holds the PassLi BaiThe Sword Pass towers high and steep; let one man hold it, and ten thousand cannot force it open.
  2. A True Friend Makes Distant Lands Feel NearWang BoAs long as there is a true friend within the four seas, the ends of the earth are like next door.
  3. No Ancients Before, No Successors AfterChen Zi'angBefore me I cannot see the ancients; after me I cannot see those to come.
  4. Three Visits Pressing for a Plan for the RealmDu FuThree visits, pressing him for a plan for the realm; through two reigns he founded and sustained, with an old minister's heart.
  5. The Endless Yangtze Rolling OnDu FuBoundless leaves fall rustling down; the endless Yangtze comes rolling on.
  6. Founding and Sustaining Two Reigns With a Veteran's HeartDu FuThree visits, pressing him for a plan for the realm; two reigns founded and sustained by an old minister's heart.
  7. The Charcoal Seller's Grizzled TemplesBai JuyiHis face is all dust and ash, the color of smoke and fire; his temples are gray, his ten fingers black.
  8. Clouds Recall Her Gown, Flowers Her FaceLi BaiClouds call to mind her robes, flowers her face; the spring wind brushes the railing, and the dew lies thick on the blossoms.
  9. Clouds and Rosy Mists Flickering Over Mount TianmuLi BaiThe people of Yue speak of Tianmu, which may be glimpsed as clouds and mists flicker bright and dim.
  10. What Shabbiness Could a Humble Room HaveLiu YuxiZhuge Liang's hut in Nanyang, Yang Xiong's pavilion in Western Shu. As Confucius said: what shabbiness is there?
  11. The Painted Beauties of the Six Palaces Lose Their ColorBai JuyiShe turned and smiled with a hundred charms, and the painted beauties of the six palaces lost their color.
  12. A Chill That Pierces Spirit and BoneLiu ZongyuanSitting by the pool, ringed by bamboo and trees, with no one about, I felt a chill in my spirit and bones, hushed, sad and deep.
  13. The Epang Palace Pitifully Burned to Scorched EarthDu MuThe garrison soldiers cried out, the Hangu Pass fell; one torch from Chu, and alas, all was scorched earth.
  14. Hills and Streams Show Off Their Skills to the Little HillLiu ZongyuanLooking out from it, the height of the hills, the drift of the clouds, the flow of the streams and the roaming of birds and beasts all joyfully showed off their skills and offered their arts beneath this hill.
  15. The Midnight Bell of Hanshan TempleZhang JiFrom Hanshan Temple outside the city of Gusu, the midnight bell reaches the traveler's boat.
  16. A Lone Plume of Smoke Over the Great DesertWang WeiOver the great desert a lone plume of smoke rises straight; above the long river the setting sun is round.
  17. Claiming There Are No Fine Horses in the WorldHan YuHe stands before it, whip in hand, and says: 'There are no good horses in the world!' Alas, are there truly no good horses? The truth is that he does not know horses.
  18. Good Rain Knows When to FallDu FuGood rain knows its season; when spring arrives, it comes to life.
  19. A Lone Sail Coming From Beside the SunLi BaiThe green hills on both banks step out to face each other; a lone sail comes from beside the sun.
  20. A Lone Sail's Fading Shadow on the BlueLi BaiThe lone sail's distant shadow vanishes into the blue sky; I see only the Yangtze flowing to the edge of heaven.
  21. Desolate Hills of Ba and Waters of ChuLiu YuxiIn the bleak lands of Ba's hills and Chu's waters, I have been cast aside for twenty-three years.
  22. Words Run Out but Grief Never EndsHan YuAlas! Words have their end, but feeling cannot be exhausted; do you know it, or do you not?
  23. Drawing the Sword and Looking Around at a LossLi BaiI stop my cup and throw down my chopsticks, unable to eat; I draw my sword and look all around, my heart at a loss.
  24. Boundless Falling Leaves Rustling DownDu FuBoundless trees shed their leaves, rustling down; the endless Yangtze comes rolling on.
  25. Swallows of the Old Wang and Xie HallsLiu YuxiThe swallows that nested before the halls of the Wangs and Xies of old now fly into the homes of common people.
  26. The Dead Are Gone Forever at ShihaoDu FuThe living barely survive, and the dead are gone forever!
  27. Riverside Maples and Fishermen's LanternsZhang JiThe moon sets, crows caw, and frost fills the sky; riverside maples and fishing lights face my sleepless sorrow.
  28. A Thousand Sails Pass the Sunken BoatLiu YuxiBeside the sunken boat a thousand sails go by; before the withered tree ten thousand trees are in spring.
  29. Venting and Guiding the People's Feelings Through SongBai JuyiThose above no longer used poems to examine their government, and those below no longer used songs to vent and guide their feelings.
  30. Fishing Boats Singing Home at DuskWang BoFishing boats sing in the evening, their songs reaching the farthest shores of Pengli.
  31. Rolling Up the Books in Wild DelightDu FuCarelessly I roll up my books and poems, wild with joy.
  32. Homesick on the Misty River WavesCui HaoThe sun is setting: where is my homeland? Mist on the river waves fills me with sorrow.
  33. Down to Yangzhou in the Misty Blossoms of the Third MonthLi BaiMy old friend bids farewell to the Yellow Crane Tower in the west and goes down to Yangzhou in the third month of misty blossoms.
  34. Clutching Coats and Stamping Feet at Xianyang BridgeDu FuThey clutch at clothes, stamp their feet and block the road weeping; the sound of their crying rises straight to the clouds.
  35. Banks Jagged Like a Dog's TeethLiu ZongyuanIts banks interlock, jagged like a dog's teeth, and its source cannot be known.
  36. Fishing Alone in the Snow on a Cold RiverLiu ZongyuanIn a lone boat an old man in straw cape and bamboo hat fishes alone in the snow on the cold river.
  37. Ten Thousand Trees in Spring Before the Withered OneLiu YuxiBeside the sunken ship a thousand sails go by; before the ailing tree ten thousand trees are in spring.
  38. Homes Where the White Clouds RiseDu MuFar up the cold mountain the stone path slants; where the white clouds rise there are homes.
  39. A Lifetime of Illness, Climbing the Heights AloneDu FuTen thousand li from home, in mournful autumn, forever a guest; a lifetime of illness, I climb the terrace alone.
  40. Hoisting a Cloud-High Sail Across the Vast SeaLi BaiThe time will come to ride the long wind and break the waves; then I will hoist my cloud-high sail and cross the vast sea.
  41. Prose Worthy of the Penglai LibraryLi BaiPenglai prose and the backbone of Jian'an, with the fresh brilliance of the Lesser Xie in between.
  42. The Road to Shu, Harder Than Climbing to HeavenLi BaiAh, how perilous, how high! The road to Shu is harder than climbing the blue sky!
  43. Until the Candle Burns to AshLi ShangyinThe spring silkworm spins until it dies; the candle's tears dry only when it burns to ash.
  44. Poetry to Mend and Inspect the GovernmentBai JuyiThose above no longer used poetry to mend and inspect the government, and those below no longer used songs to release the people's feelings.
  45. Going West Beyond Yang PassWang WeiDrink one more cup of wine, my friend; west of Yang Pass you will have no old friends.
  46. Everyone Wears Dogwood but OneWang WeiI know that where my brothers climb the heights, all wearing dogwood, there is one person missing.
  47. The Round Sun Setting over the Long RiverWang WeiOn the vast desert a lone column of smoke rises straight; over the long river the setting sun is round.
  48. Wild Geese Crying in the Autumn ChillWang BoFishing boats sing at dusk, their songs reaching the shores of Pengli; geese in formation, startled by the cold, cry until their voices fade at the banks of Hengyang.
  49. Never Abandoning Aspirations as High as the CloudsWang BoIn old age be ever more vigorous; how could white hair change one's heart? In hardship be ever firmer, never letting fall one's aspirations to the blue clouds.
  50. With Spring as Companion on the Road HomeDu FuBy day I sing aloud and must drink deep; with green spring as my companion, it is good to go home.
  51. Follow the Tree's Own NatureLiu ZongyuanI cannot make trees live long and multiply; I can only follow the tree's own nature so that it fulfils itself.
  52. The Lushan Waterfall Plunges Straight DownLi BaiThe torrent flies straight down three thousand feet; I wonder if the Milky Way has fallen from the ninth heaven.
  53. From Mount Tai's Summit All Other Peaks Look SmallDu FuOne day I shall stand upon the highest peak and see at a glance how small all other mountains are.
  54. Sorrow of Ten Thousand Ages Drowned in WineLi BaiCall the boy to take them out and trade them for fine wine, and with you I will dissolve the sorrows of ten thousand ages.
  55. No Damming, No Flow; No Halting, No AdvanceHan YuThen what is to be done? I say: without damming, there is no flow; without halting, there is no advance.
  56. No Northern Horsemen Shall Cross the Yin MountainsWang ChanglingIf only the Flying General of Dragon City were here, no northern horseman would be allowed to cross the Yin Mountains.
  57. They Simply Do Not Know Horses: Han Yu on TalentHan YuAlas! Are there truly no good horses? The truth is they simply do not know horses!
  58. Merging Silently with All Creation on Western HillLiu ZongyuanMy mind was stilled and my body released, and I merged silently with all creation.
  59. When Life Goes Well, Enjoy It to the Full: Li Bai's ToastLi BaiWhen life goes well, enjoy it to the full; never let the golden cup stand empty to the moon.
  60. Dying Before the Campaign Could Triumph: Du Fu on Zhuge LiangDu FuHe led his army out but died before victory; ever since, heroes weep until their robes are soaked.
  61. One More Cup Before You Go West: Wang Wei's FarewellWang WeiLet me urge you, drink one more cup of wine; west of Yang Pass you will find no old friends.
  62. Coming Out Only After a Thousand CallsBai JuyiOnly after a thousand calls did she come out, still holding the pipa to half hide her face.
  63. Birds Gone from a Thousand Snowy PeaksLiu ZongyuanOver a thousand mountains the birds have flown away; on ten thousand paths no footprint remains.
  64. Back to Jiangling in a Single DayLi BaiAt dawn I left Baidi among the colored clouds; a thousand li to Jiangling, and back within a day.
  65. Spent Fortunes Will Return AgainLi BaiHeaven made my talent, and it will be put to use; scatter a thousand in gold and it will all come back.
  66. Loving All Widely Is Called BenevolenceHan YuLoving broadly is called benevolence; acting fittingly is called righteousness; the path that follows from them is called the Way; being sufficient in oneself without depending on externals is called virtue.
  67. Fellow Wanderers Fallen at the Ends of the EarthBai JuyiWe are both wanderers fallen on hard times at the ends of the earth; meeting now, why must we have known each other before!
  68. The Realm Lies Broken, Yet Hills and Rivers EndureDu FuThe state is broken, yet mountains and rivers remain; spring comes to the city, and grass and trees grow deep.
  69. Sages Keep No Single TeacherHan YuThe sage has no fixed teacher.
  70. Shelter for All the Poor Scholars Under HeavenDu FuIf only I had ten million spacious halls, to shelter all the poor scholars under heaven and make their faces glad!
  71. Pearls Great and Small Falling on a Jade PlateBai JuyiHeavy and light notes played in a tangle, like pearls great and small falling onto a jade plate.
  72. Even the Ends of the Earth Feel Like Next DoorWang BoWithin the four seas I have a true friend; the ends of the earth are like next door.
  73. Heaven Gave Me Talent for a PurposeLi BaiHeaven made my talent, and it will surely find its use; scatter a thousand in gold and it will all come back.
  74. Holding One City to Shield the EmpireHan YuThey held one city and shielded the empire; with a few hundred or thousand men on the point of death they fought a host of a million that grew by the day, screened the Yangtze and Huai, and checked the enemy's advance. That the empire did not fall, whose achievement was it?
  75. Steady as a Mountain Through Wind and RainDu FuUnmoved by wind and rain, steady as a mountain.
  76. If Only There Were Ten Million Spacious HallsDu FuIf only I had ten million spacious halls, to shelter all the poor scholars under heaven and make their faces glad!
  77. My Shadow Makes Us ThreeLi BaiI raise my cup to invite the bright moon; with my shadow we make three.
  78. Into the Homes of Ordinary FolkLiu YuxiThe swallows that once nested before the halls of the Wangs and Xies now fly into the homes of ordinary folk.
  79. A Hill Need Not Be High If an Immortal Dwells ThereLiu YuxiA hill need not be high; if an immortal lives there it is famous. Water need not be deep; if a dragon dwells there it is sacred.
  80. Already Lost in Wistful ConfusionLi ShangyinMust this feeling wait to become a memory? Even then, at the time, I was already lost.
  81. No Unlettered Callers at My DoorLiu YuxiAmong those who talk and laugh here are great scholars; among those who come and go, none is unlettered.
  82. Fearing Cheap Charcoal, He Wishes the Weather ColderBai JuyiPitiful: the clothes on his back are thin, yet fearing charcoal will be cheap, he wishes the weather colder!
  83. Foolish Brook of YongzhouLiu ZongyuanIn ancient times there was the Valley of the Foolish Old Man; now I have made my home by this stream, whose name no one could settle and over which the locals still argued. It had to be changed, so I changed it to Foolish Brook.
  84. Grieving the Times, Tears Fall on the FlowersDu FuGrieving the times, tears splash on the flowers; hating parting, the birds startle my heart.
  85. Over Wine We Talk of Mulberry and HempMeng HaoranWe open the window to face the threshing floor and garden, and over wine we talk of mulberry and hemp.
  86. Writing Should Be Composed for Its Own TimesBai JuyiOnly then did I understand that prose should be written for its times, and poems composed for real events.
  87. Bright Moonlight Shining Down Through the PinesWang WeiThe bright moon shines among the pines; the clear spring flows over the stones.
  88. Sleeping Through the Spring Dawn UnawaresMeng HaoranSleeping in spring, I did not notice the dawn; everywhere I hear the birds singing.
  89. Grass That Springs Up Again in the Spring WindBai JuyiWildfire cannot burn it all away; when the spring wind blows, it grows again.
  90. Each Craft and Field of Learning Has Its MastersHan YuSome grasp the Way sooner, some later; each has a field of mastery; that is all there is to it.
  91. A Pause in the Music More Moving Than SoundBai JuyiA different kind of hidden sorrow and secret grief arose; at that moment silence was better than sound.
  92. Missing One's Family Twice as Much on Every FestivalWang WeiAlone in a strange land, a stranger, on every festival I miss my family twice as much.
  93. Lovebirds Flying Wing to Wing in HeavenBai JuyiIn heaven, may we be two birds flying wing to wing; on earth, two trees with branches grown together.
  94. A True Friend Somewhere Within the Four SeasWang BoIf within the four seas you have a true friend, the ends of the earth are like next door.
  95. Spring Rain Moistening All Things Without a SoundDu FuIt steals in with the wind at night, moistening all things finely, without a sound.
  96. Clear Spring Water Flowing Over the Mountain StonesWang WeiThe bright moon shines among the pines; the clear spring flows over the stones.
  97. Like the Woodcutter Whose Axe Handle Rotted AwayLiu YuxiRecalling old friends, I chant in vain the flute rhapsody; coming home, I am like the man whose axe handle rotted.
  98. Still Half-Hiding Her Face Behind the PipaBai JuyiOnly after a thousand calls did she come out, still holding her pipa to hide half her face.
  99. The Bright Sun Sinking Behind the Western HillsWang ZhihuanThe bright sun sinks along the mountains; the Yellow River flows into the sea.
  100. Every Grain of the Meal on One's PlateLi ShenWho knows that of the meal on the plate, every single grain is hard labour?
  101. Hard It Is to Meet, and Harder Still to PartLi ShangyinHard it is to meet, and hard to part; the east wind has no strength and the hundred flowers fade.
  102. Lush Grass Spreading Across the Ancient PlainBai JuyiLush, lush, the grass upon the plain, withering and flourishing once every year.
  103. An Autumn Day Surpasses Any Spring MorningLiu YuxiSince ancient times, people meeting autumn have mourned its loneliness; I say an autumn day surpasses a spring morning.
  104. The Moon of Qin Above the Frontier Passes of HanWang ChanglingThe moon of Qin, the passes of Han; those who marched ten thousand li have not returned.
  105. Every Grain Is Hard-Won ToilLi ShenWho knows that of the food on the plate, every single grain is hard toil?
  106. Flowers Recall Her FaceLi BaiClouds call to mind her robes, flowers call to mind her face; the spring wind brushes the railing, and the dew lies thick and bright.
  107. How Many Blossoms Fell in the NightMeng HaoranLast night came the sound of wind and rain; who knows how many blossoms fell?
  108. The Light Boat Has Passed Ten Thousand PeaksLi BaiOn both banks the gibbons cry without ceasing, and my light boat has already passed ten thousand peaks.
  109. Branches Grown Together as OneBai JuyiIn heaven we would be birds flying wing to wing; on earth, two trees with branches grown as one.
  110. No Sun, They Say, Yet the Sun Is OutLiu YuxiThe sun comes out in the east while rain falls in the west; no sun, they say, and yet the sun is out.
  111. Wildfire Cannot Burn the Grass AwayBai JuyiWildfire cannot burn it all away; when the spring wind blows, it grows again.
  112. Hoeing the Fields Under the Noonday SunLi ShenHoeing the crops under the noonday sun, his sweat drips into the soil beneath them.
  113. Light and Shade Split Dusk from DawnDu FuNature gathered here all wonder and beauty; its north and south split dusk from dawn.
  114. Frost-Touched Leaves Redder Than Spring FlowersDu MuI stop my carriage, for I love the maple woods at dusk; the frost-touched leaves are redder than the flowers of spring.
  115. Dew Lies Thick and Bright on the PeoniesLi BaiClouds call to mind her robes, flowers call to mind her face; the spring wind brushes the railing, and the dew lies thick and bright.
  116. My Native Accent UnchangedHe ZhizhangI left home young and return old; my native accent has not changed, but the hair at my temples has thinned.
  117. Recover the Divine Land: Wang Dao Rebukes the Weeping ExilesFang Xuanling (comp.)We should join our strength for the royal house and recover the Divine Land; why sit weeping at one another like prisoners of Chu?
  118. Leaves Falling on Lake DongtingShangguan Wan'erWhen the leaves first fall on Lake Dongting, I think of you more than ten thousand li away.
  119. The Seventeenth of the Fourth Month: Wei Zhuang's Day of PartingWei ZhuangThe seventeenth of the fourth month: a year ago today I parted from you.
  120. Rotten Reins on a Racing Carriage: Wei Zheng's WarningWei ZhengWater carries the boat and overturns it; one must be deeply careful. Driving a racing carriage with rotten reins, how can one be careless!
  121. Little Hills Layered on the Screen: Wen Tingyun's Morning BoudoirWen TingyunLittle hills overlap, their gold glinting and fading; the cloud of hair at her temple would drift across the fragrant snow of her cheek.
  122. Holding the Centre of the RingSikong Tu (traditionally attributed)Go beyond the images and hold the centre of the ring.
  123. Curbing Extravagance with ThriftWei ZhengNot to think of danger in peace or check extravagance with thrift is like cutting the roots to make the tree flourish, or blocking the source to make the stream run long.
  124. Flowing East Day and Night Without RestYu XuanjiFlowing east day and night, with never a moment's rest.
  125. Warm Fragrance Coaxing Dreams Beneath Mandarin-Duck BrocadeWen TingyunBehind the crystal curtain, on the glass pillow, warm fragrance coaxes dreams beneath the mandarin-duck brocade.
  126. Moonset Over an Empty Brocade ScreenShangguan Wan'erThe dew is heavy and the scented quilt cold; the moon sets and the brocade screen stands empty.
  127. Wind in the Pines and the Moon on the WaterLi Shimin (Emperor Taizong of Tang)Wind in the pines and the moon on the water cannot match his purity and brilliance; immortal dew and bright pearls can hardly equal his clarity and lustre.
  128. Reeds Under Night Frost in the Land of WatersXue TaoIn the land of waters the reeds are frosted at night; the cold moon and the colour of the hills are both a misty grey.
  129. Washing One's Feet at Fusang Where the Sun RisesSikong Tu (traditionally attributed)At dawn I whip on the six great turtles and wash my feet at Fusang.
  130. Ape-Like Arms and a Born Archer: Young Liu CongFang Xuanling (comp.)At fifteen he learned to fight; with ape-like arms he shot superbly and drew a bow of three hundred jin.
  131. Buying Spring Wine in a Jade FlaskSikong Tu (traditionally attributed)With a jade flask I buy spring wine and watch the rain from a thatched hut.
  132. True Strength Brimming Over: The Bold and Unrestrained ModeSikong Tu (traditionally attributed)True strength brims over, and all phenomena are close at hand.
  133. Dressed in Green Jade: He Zhizhang's Ode to the WillowHe ZhizhangDressed in green jade, one tall tree; ten thousand branches hang down like green silk ribbons.
  134. Strength Stored Becomes Grandeur: The Potent and Vast ModeSikong Tu (traditionally attributed)Return to emptiness and enter the undivided whole; store up vigour and it becomes grandeur.
  135. Parting Night at the Red Chamber in Wei Zhuang's SongWei ZhuangThat parting night in the red chamber was hard to bear; the scented lamp, the tasselled curtain half drawn.
  136. Nearest Yet Most Distant: Li Ye on Husband and WifeLi YeNearest yet most distant: husband and wife.
  137. Enjoying the Rain in a Thatched Hut: the Elegant Mode of PoetrySikong Tu (traditionally attributed)Falling petals drift without a word, and the man is as serene as a chrysanthemum.
  138. The Deserted Country FerryWei YingwuThe spring tide, swollen with rain, rushes in fast at dusk; no one is at the country ferry, and the boat lies crosswise of itself.
  139. Wind and Clouds Change Colour at a ShoutLuo BinwangWhen they roar, the mountains crumble; when they shout, the wind and clouds change colour.
  140. Drinking In the Great HarmonySikong Tu (traditionally attributed)Dwelling plainly in silence, the mind subtly senses the hidden workings; it drinks in the great harmony and flies with a solitary crane.
  141. Black Clouds Bearing Down on the Besieged CityLi HeBlack clouds bear down on the city, the city about to crumble; armour gleams towards the sun, scales of gold unfolding.
  142. Footprints in the Frost on the Plank BridgeWen TingyunCockcrow, a thatched inn, the moon; footprints, a plank bridge, the frost.
  143. Why Not Eat Meat Porridge?Fang Xuanling (comp.)When the realm fell into famine and chaos and the people were starving to death, the emperor said: 'Why don't they eat meat porridge?'
  144. A Young Shi Le Whistling at Luoyang's Upper East GateFang Xuanling (comp.)At fourteen he went with people of his town to trade in Luoyang; he leaned against the Upper East Gate and whistled, and Wang Yan saw him and thought him remarkable.
  145. No Ancients Before Me in SightChen Zi'angBefore me I see no ancients; after me I see none who are to come.
  146. Pear Blossoms Open on Ten Thousand TreesCen ShenSuddenly, as if a spring wind had come in a single night, pear blossoms open on ten thousand trees.
  147. Who in the World Does Not Know You?Gao ShiDo not fear that on the road ahead you will find no friend; who in the world does not know you?
  148. Refuse Heaven's Gift and Bear the BlameFang Xuanling (comp.)To defy Heaven is unlucky, to go against the people is to fail; if Heaven gives and you do not take, you will suffer for it.
  149. Left Home Young, Came Back OldHe ZhizhangI left home young and have come back old; my accent has not changed, but the hair at my temples has grown thin.
  150. Different Mountains and Rivers, the Same Wind and MoonMahito Genkai (Omi no Mifune)Mountains and rivers in different lands, wind and moon under the same sky; we send these to the children of the Buddha, to form a bond for lives to come.
  151. As if a Spring Wind Came OvernightCen ShenSuddenly, as if a spring wind had come in a single night, pear blossoms open on ten thousand trees.
  152. Touching the Dragon's Reversed ScalesYao Chong (traditionally attributed)I wish that all ministers may touch the dragon's reversed scales and offend against taboos; may it be so?
  153. With No Heroes in the Age, a Mere Boy Made His NameFang Xuanling (comp.)There were no heroes in that age, so a mere boy made his name!
  154. Spring Waters Bluer Than the SkyWei ZhuangThe spring water is bluer than the sky; in a painted boat one sleeps listening to the rain.
  155. Thin Spring Robes of YouthWei ZhuangOnly now do I recall how happy Jiangnan was; I was young then, in thin spring clothes.
  156. The Spring Breeze Like a Pair of ScissorsHe ZhizhangWho cut out these slender leaves, I wonder? The second-month spring breeze, like a pair of scissors.
  157. A True-Hearted Lover Is Hard to FindYu XuanjiA priceless treasure is easy to find; a true-hearted lover is hard to obtain.
  158. Not a Single Thing from the Start: Huineng's Answer to ShenxiuHuineng (Sixth Patriarch) (traditionally attributed)From the start there is not a single thing; where could any dust collect?
  159. Willows Like Mist Along the River: Wen Tingyun's Spring DreamWen TingyunAlong the river the willows are like mist; wild geese fly across a sky with a waning moon.
  160. Behind the Crystal Curtain: Wen Tingyun's Jewelled ChamberWen TingyunBehind the crystal curtain lies a pillow of glass; warm fragrance from the mandarin-duck brocade stirs dreams.
  161. Recalling the Joys of Jiangnan in Youth: Wei Zhuang's MemoryWei ZhuangNow I recall the joys of Jiangnan, when I was young and my spring robe was thin.
  162. The Whole City Clad in Golden Armour: Huang Chao's ChrysanthemumsHuang Chao (traditionally attributed)Their fragrance storms the sky and soaks through Chang'an; the whole city is clad in golden armour.
  163. The Wangs and the Simas Share the RealmFang Xuanling (comp.)When the emperor first took charge east of the Yangtze, his name was not yet known. Wang Dun, his cousin Wang Dao and others supported him with one heart to bring about the restoration, and people of the time said: the Wangs and the Simas share the realm.
  164. Sleeping to Rain in a Painted Boat: Wei Zhuang's JiangnanWei ZhuangThe spring water is bluer than the sky; in a painted boat I sleep to the sound of rain.
  165. Wrists White as Frost by the Wine CounterWei ZhuangThe girl by the wine counter is lovely as the moon; her white wrists seem made of frozen frost and snow.
  166. Kongkong'er, the Assassin Who Strikes Only OncePei XingKongkong'er's magic is such that no man can see how he works it and no ghost can follow his tracks.
  167. Rain Dripping on Empty Steps Until Dawn: Wen Tingyun's Sleepless NightWen TingyunLeaf by leaf, drop by drop, it falls on the empty steps until dawn.
  168. Red Sleeves Beckoning from Every BalconyWei ZhuangI rode my horse and leaned by the slanting bridge, and from every balcony red sleeves beckoned.
  169. Able, Yet Seeming Unable: Li Jing on Sunzi's Art of DeceptionLi Jing (traditionally attributed)The art of war says: do not pursue a feigned retreat. It also says: when able, appear unable. Both speak of surprise.
  170. Form Is Emptiness, Emptiness Is Form: The Heart SutraXuanzang (trans.)Form is not different from emptiness, emptiness is not different from form; form is emptiness, emptiness is form.
  171. Fear Not That No Friend Awaits: Gao Shi's Farewell to Dong DaGao ShiDo not worry that on the road ahead you will have no friends; who under heaven does not know you?
  172. Gold Glinting and Fading on the Folded Hills: Wen Tingyun's Morning ToiletteWen TingyunOn the folded little hills gold glints and fades; cloud-like hair is about to drift across fragrant, snowy cheeks.
  173. Came for What I Heard, Left with What I Saw: Zhong Hui and Ji KangFang Xuanling (comp.)Zhong Hui said: I came for what I heard, and I go with what I saw.
  174. No One Knows But the Moon: Wei Zhuang's Seventeenth of the Fourth MonthWei ZhuangApart from the moon at the edge of the sky, no one knows.
  175. Dark Eyes for Friends, White Eyes for Bores: Ruan Ji's GlancesFang Xuanling (comp.)Ruan Ji could also show dark eyes or white; when he saw men bound by conventional propriety, he met them with the whites of his eyes.
  176. Cockcrow, Thatched Inn, Fading Moon: Setting Out Early on Mount ShangWen TingyunCockcrow, a thatched inn, the moon; footprints, a plank bridge, frost.
  177. Repaying the Favour of the Golden Terrace: Li He's Frontier SongLi HeTo repay your favour shown at the Golden Terrace, I take up my jade-dragon sword and will die for you!

Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms

37 works

907–979

  1. A Brief Indulgence in Dreamt JoyLi YuIn the dream I forgot I was a guest, and briefly indulged in joy.
  2. A Floating Life Reckoned as One DreamLi YuThe world's affairs drift off with the flowing water; reckoned up, a floating life is one dream.
  3. The Hurried Farewell to the Ancestral TempleLi YuWorst of all was the day I hastily left the ancestral temple: the court musicians still played songs of parting, and I wept before the palace maids.
  4. Only the Road to Drunkenness Is SmoothLi YuThe world's affairs drift away with the water; this floating life is a dream. The road to drunkenness is smooth, so go there often; no other road is fit to walk.
  5. Sorrow Like a River of Spring Water Flowing EastLi YuIf you ask how much sorrow I can hold, it is just like a whole river of spring water flowing east.
  6. Worldly Affairs Drift Away like Flowing WaterLi YuThe world's affairs have drifted off with the flowing water; reckon it up, and this floating life is but a dream.
  7. Life's Regrets Run On as Rivers Run EastLi YuRouge-stained tears, tempting me to linger drunk; when shall we meet again? Truly, life's regrets run on as rivers run east.
  8. When Had I Ever Known Shield and Spear: Li Yu's LamentLi YuPhoenix pavilions and dragon towers reached the Milky Way; jade trees and jewelled branches grew thick as mist and vines. When had I ever known shield and spear?
  9. A Taste All Its Own upon the HeartLi YuCut, it will not break; sorted, it tangles again; this is the sorrow of parting, a taste all its own upon the heart.
  10. Cut It Will Not Break, Sort It and It Tangles: Li Yu's Parting SorrowLi YuCut, it will not break; sorted, it tangles again; this is the sorrow of parting.
  11. My Family Realm of Forty YearsLi YuForty years of my family's realm; three thousand li of mountains and rivers.
  12. How Much Regret Last NightLi YuHow much regret, all in last night's dreaming soul.
  13. Gone All Too SoonLi YuThe forest flowers have shed their spring red, all too soon.
  14. Lonely Wutong Trees, Autumn Locked in a Deep CourtyardLi YuLonely wutong trees; the deep courtyard locks in the clear autumn.
  15. When Will the Spring Flowers and Autumn Moons Ever EndLi YuSpring flowers and autumn moon, when will you end? How much of the past do I remember?
  16. Parting Sorrow That Grows the Farther One TravelsLi YuThe sorrow of parting is just like spring grass: the farther you go, the more it grows.
  17. Only the Rosy Faces Have ChangedLi YuThe carved railings and jade steps must still be there; only the rosy faces have changed.
  18. The Woodland Blossoms Have Shed Their Spring RedLi YuThe woodland blossoms have shed their spring red, all too soon.
  19. In Dreams Forgetting One Is Only a Captive GuestLi YuIn my dream I did not know I was a guest here, and clung for a moment to pleasure.
  20. Tears Stained with RougeLi YuTears stained with rouge hold me, intoxicated; when will we meet again?
  21. Falling Plum Petals Whirl Like SnowLi YuBelow the steps the plum petals fall and whirl like snow; I brush them off, and I am covered again.
  22. Carriages Flow Like Water, Horses Like DragonsLi YuAs in the old days I toured the royal park, carriages flowing like water, horses like dragons, flowers and moon in the spring breeze!
  23. Lilac Buds Knotted with Sorrow in the RainLi JingThe bluebird brings no letter from beyond the clouds; lilac buds knot their sorrow in vain in the rain.
  24. Plum Petals Mimicking Snow in the WindFeng YansiFrom the laden branches the plum blossom falls in thousands of petals; still full of feeling, they imitate the snow and whirl in the wind.
  25. Forgetting Danger in Times of Ease: Emperor Dezong Blames HimselfLiu Xu (comp.)Set in my habits and easily indulged, I forgot danger in times of ease.
  26. Plum Petals Falling by the Thousand From Laden BoughsFeng YansiFrom the laden plum boughs petals fall by the thousand, still full of feeling, whirling in the wind as if imitating snow.
  27. The Lotus Fragrance Fades: Li Jing's Autumn LamentLi JingThe lotus fragrance fades and the green leaves wither; the west wind raises sorrow among the blue waves.
  28. A Hundred and Forty Thousand Laid Down Their ArmsLady Huarui (traditionally attributed)A hundred and forty thousand men all laid down their armour, and not one of them was a man.
  29. Playing the Jade Mouth Organ Until It Grows ColdLi JingIn fine rain I wake from dreams of the distant Jilu fort; in my small tower I play the jade sheng to the end, until it grows cold.
  30. To Meet Again Year After YearFeng YansiThird, that like the swallows on the beam, we may be together year after year.
  31. A Banquet on a Spring DayFeng YansiA banquet on a spring day: a cup of green wine, a song sung through; I bow again and set out three wishes.
  32. Unflinching as the Mirror Shows a Thinning FaceFeng YansiDay after day before the flowers I am sick with wine, and do not shrink from the mirror showing my rosy face grown thin.
  33. Like Swallows on the Beam: Three Wishes at a Spring BanquetFeng YansiFirst, may my lord live a thousand years; second, may I stay well; third, may we be like the swallows on the beam, meeting again year after year.
  34. Alone on a Small Bridge, Sleeves Full of WindFeng YansiI stand alone on the small bridge, my sleeves full of wind, until the new moon rises over the level woods and everyone has gone home.
  35. Sick with Wine Before the Flowers Each SpringFeng YansiDay after day before the flowers I am sick with wine, and do not shrink from the mirror showing my rosy face grown thin.
  36. A Sudden Wind Ruffles a Pool of Spring WaterFeng YansiThe wind suddenly rises and ruffles a whole pool of spring water.
  37. Who Owns the Petals Falling in the Wind: Li Jing's Spring SorrowLi JingPetals falling in the wind, who is their master? My thoughts drift on and on.

Song

143 works

960–1279

  1. Writing That Wells Up Like a Boundless SpringSu ShiMy writing is like a spring of ten thousand bushels: it does not choose its ground, and can rise anywhere.
  2. Thirty Years of Fame, Mere Dust and EarthYue FeiThirty years of fame and merit are but dust and earth; eight thousand li of road, under cloud and moon.
  3. Osmanthus of the Three Autumn Months in HangzhouLiu YongThere is osmanthus through the three months of autumn, and lotus for ten li.
  4. To Be Admired From Afar, Never Trifled WithZhou DunyiIt may be admired from afar, but never handled lightly.
  5. Wine at Dusk by the Eastern HedgeLi QingzhaoAfter dusk I hold my wine by the eastern hedge, and a hidden fragrance fills my sleeves.
  6. Chicken and Pork for Guests in a Bountiful YearLu YouDo not laugh at the farmers' cloudy winter wine; in a bumper year they keep their guests with plenty of chicken and pork.
  7. Scattered Red Petals Flying Past the SwingOuyang XiuWith tearful eyes I ask the flowers, but they say nothing; scattered red petals fly past the swing and away.
  8. The Twenty-Four Bridges of YangzhouJiang KuiThe Twenty-Four Bridges are still here; the waves ripple at their heart, and the cold moon is silent.
  9. Eight Thousand Leagues Under Cloud and MoonYue FeiThirty years of fame are dust and earth; eight thousand li of road, with only cloud and moon.
  10. Frontier Passes and Rivers Turn Cold and DesolateLiu YongThe frosty wind grows sharp and cold, the passes and rivers lie deserted, and the last light falls on the tower.
  11. Chill and Cheerless, Hushed and LonelyLi QingzhaoSearching and seeking, chill and cheerless, bleak and wretched and grieving.
  12. Bleak and Wretched, Full of GriefLi QingzhaoSearching and seeking, chill and cheerless, bleak and wretched and grieving.
  13. Ten Miles of Lotus Blossoms on West LakeLiu YongLayered lakes and stacked hills, clear and lovely; osmanthus in the third autumn month and ten li of lotus flowers.
  14. The Rise and Fall of a Thousand Ages at Beigu PavilionXin QijiHow many rises and falls through the ages? Long gone, long gone, while the endless Yangtze rolls on and on.
  15. A Thousand Tender Feelings with No One to ShareLiu YongYear after year apart, every fine hour and lovely scene will be wasted. Even with a thousand tender feelings, whom could I tell?
  16. Gone from the Brow, Back in the HeartLi QingzhaoThere is no way to dispel this feeling: it has just left my brow, and already it rises in my heart.
  17. Gentlemen Who Share the Way Become FriendsOuyang XiuGenerally, gentlemen join with gentlemen through a shared Way, and petty men with petty men through shared profit; this is the natural order of things.
  18. Sun Quan Holds the Southeast FirmXin QijiYoung, he led ten thousand helmeted men, held the southeast firm and never ceased to fight.
  19. Vowing to Be a Great Wall on the FrontierLu YouIn vain I vowed to be a Great Wall on the frontier; in the mirror my fading temples have already turned gray.
  20. Favor and Disgrace Both ForgottenFan ZhongyanClimbing this tower, one feels the heart open and the spirit lift, forgets favor and disgrace alike, raises a cup to the wind, and is filled with joy.
  21. Searching, Seeking: Li Qingzhao's LamentLi QingzhaoSearching, seeking, cold and lonely, wretched, miserable, grieving.
  22. A Shattered Land Like Catkins in the WindWen TianxiangMy land is shattered, catkins scattered by the wind; my fortunes rise and sink, duckweed beaten by the rain.
  23. Vows Firm as Mountains Still RemainLu YouThough our mountain-firm vows remain, no brocade letter can be entrusted to carry them.
  24. High Mountains and a Small Moon Over Red CliffSu ShiThe river roars, the sheer bank rises a thousand feet; the mountains are high, the moon is small, the water has fallen and the rocks stand out.
  25. Pearls and Gems Lining Hangzhou's MarketsLiu YongMarkets display pearls and gems, homes brim with silks and brocades, and all vie in luxury.
  26. Deep, Deep the Courtyard LiesOuyang XiuDeep, deep the courtyard lies, how deep? Willows pile up mist, and curtains hang beyond counting.
  27. Homes Brimming With Silk Gauze and BrocadeLiu YongMarkets display pearls and gems, homes brim with silk gauze and brocade, and all vie in luxury.
  28. Just Gone From the Brows, Back Upon the HeartLi QingzhaoThere is no way to dispel this longing: it has just left my brows, and already it rises in my heart.
  29. Passing Over Every Cold BranchSu ShiIt tries every cold branch but will not perch; lonely, the sandbar is cold.
  30. The Chill Spring Wind That SobersSu ShiThe chilly spring wind blows me sober; a little cold, yet the slanting sun on the hilltop comes to greet me.
  31. Speechless and Choked with Tears at PartingLiu YongHolding hands, we gaze at each other's tear-filled eyes, and choked with sobs, we cannot say a word.
  32. Hair Gone Gray Before Its TimeSu ShiMy spirit wanders the old land; so sentimental, I should be laughed at for my hair gone gray before its time.
  33. Ten Miles of Spring Breeze in YangzhouJiang KuiI pass where ten li of spring breeze once blew, and all is green with shepherd's purse and wheat.
  34. Hidden Fragrance Filling the SleevesLi QingzhaoHolding wine by the eastern fence after dusk, a hidden fragrance fills my sleeves.
  35. The Moon Rising Over the Willow TipsOuyang XiuThe moon rose over the willow tips; we met after dusk.
  36. Towered Warships on a Snowy Night at GuazhouLu YouTowered warships on a snowy night at the Guazhou ford; armored horses in the autumn wind at Dasan Pass.
  37. On the Verge of Speaking, Then Holding BackXin QijiNow that I have tasted every sorrow, I want to speak but stop.
  38. Water Shimmering in the Sun on West LakeSu ShiThe shimmering water is lovely in sunshine; the misty hills are wonderful in rain.
  39. Asking the Flowers Through TearsOuyang XiuThrough tears I ask the flowers; the flowers do not speak, and scattered petals fly away past the swing.
  40. Rosy Cheeks Turned to Withered WoodOuyang XiuNo wonder the rosy-cheeked turn to withered wood and the jet-black-haired turn speckled grey.
  41. There, Where the Lantern Light Grows DimXin QijiSuddenly I turn my head, and there that person is, where the lantern light grows dim.
  42. No Victory Yet Carved on Mount YanranFan ZhongyanA cup of cloudy wine, and home ten thousand li away; with no victory yet carved on Mount Yanran, there is no road back.
  43. The Day the Royal Army Retakes the NorthLu YouOn the day the royal army marches north and pacifies the Central Plains, at the family sacrifice do not forget to tell your father.
  44. Gazing at Each Other in Silence, Tears in a Thousand LinesSu ShiWe looked at each other without a word; there were only tears, a thousand lines of them.
  45. Bamboo Staff and Straw Sandals, Lighter Than a HorseSu ShiBamboo staff and straw sandals are lighter than a horse: who is afraid? In a straw cape, through mist and rain, I will live my life as I please.
  46. Turning Back Suddenly Amid the Fading LanternsXin QijiIn the crowd I sought her a thousand times; suddenly turning my head, there she was, where the lantern light was dim.
  47. A Life Tossed Like Duckweed in the RainWen TianxiangThe broken land drifts like willow down in the wind; my fortunes rise and sink like duckweed in the rain.
  48. Wine Entering a Sorrowful Heart Turns to TearsFan ZhongyanWhen the moon is bright, do not lean alone on the high tower; wine entering a sorrowing heart turns into tears of longing.
  49. Armored Horses and Autumn Wind at Dasan PassLu YouTowered warships on a snowy night at Guazhou ferry; armoured horses in the autumn wind at Dasan Pass.
  50. A Brocade Letter That Cannot Be SentLu YouOur mountain-firm vows remain, but a brocade letter is hard to send. No, no, no!
  51. Long Smoke, Setting Sun and a Lone Walled TownFan ZhongyanOn all sides the border sounds rise with the horns; among a thousand peaks, long smoke, the setting sun, and a lone town shut tight.
  52. As the Moon Has Its Dim and Full PhasesSu ShiPeople have sorrow and joy, parting and reunion; the moon has dim and bright, full and waning; since ancient times this has never been perfect.
  53. The Lotus Scent Grows Purer with DistanceZhou DunyiHollow within and straight without, with no tendrils and no branches; its scent grows purer the farther it goes, and it stands upright and clean.
  54. Grief of the Drooping Millet in Ruined YangzhouJiang KuiThe Old Man of a Thousand Cliffs felt it carried the grief of Shu Li.
  55. One Longing Shared, Sorrow in Two PlacesLi QingzhaoPetals fall on their own, water flows on its own. One longing, sorrow idling in two places.
  56. In a Straw Cape, Taking Life's Misty Rain as It ComesSu ShiBamboo staff and straw sandals are lighter than a horse; who is afraid? In a straw cape through misty rain, I take whatever life brings.
  57. Xiang Yu Would Not Cross Back East of the RiverLi QingzhaoIn life be a hero among men; in death, a hero among ghosts. To this day I think of Xiang Yu, who would not cross back east of the river.
  58. The East Wind Sets a Thousand Trees of Lanterns AblazeXin QijiAt night the east wind sets a thousand trees in bloom, and blows down more, stars falling like rain.
  59. Forcing Talk of Sorrow to Compose New VerseXin QijiWhen young I did not know the taste of sorrow and loved to climb high towers; loved to climb high towers, and to write a new verse forced myself to speak of sorrow.
  60. The Nine Provinces Reunited: Lu You's Last WishLu YouIn death, I always knew, all things are empty; I grieve only that I shall not see the Nine Provinces united.
  61. Neither Wind and Rain nor Clear Skies: Su Shi Turns for HomeSu ShiI look back at the place where the wind blew bleak; going home, there was neither wind and rain nor clear skies.
  62. To Settle the Sovereign's Affairs of the RealmXin QijiTo settle the sovereign's affairs of the realm and win renown in life and after death. Alas, my hair has turned white!
  63. Shooting the Tiger Myself, Like Young Sun QuanSu ShiTo repay the whole town for following their prefect, I will shoot the tiger myself; watch me, like young Sun Quan.
  64. Thinner Than the Yellow Chrysanthemums: Li Qingzhao's Double NinthLi QingzhaoDo not say the soul is not consumed: when the west wind lifts the curtain, I am thinner than the yellow chrysanthemums.
  65. Searching the Crowd a Thousand Times on Lantern NightXin QijiIn the crowd I searched for her a thousand times; suddenly I turned my head, and there she was, where the lantern light was dim.
  66. New Ideas Within the Rules: Su Shi on Wu DaoziSu ShiHe brought forth new ideas within the rules, and lodged subtle principles beyond bold freedom.
  67. Ten Years Between the Living and the DeadSu ShiTen years, the living and the dead, both lost in a blur. I do not try to think of you, yet I cannot forget.
  68. Calm When Calamity Strikes Without WarningSu ShiThose under heaven with great courage are not alarmed when things come upon them suddenly, nor angered when insulted without cause, for what they hold is very great and their aims very far.
  69. The Ancients' Way Shines on My FaceWen TianxiangUnder the windy eaves I spread my books to read; the ancients' way shines upon my face.
  70. Only Its Fragrance Remains UnchangedLu YouFallen into mud and ground to dust, only its fragrance remains as before.
  71. Sadly, White Hair Has GrownXin QijiTo finish the king's great task of the realm, and win a name in life and after death. Alas, my hair has turned white!
  72. What a Cool and Lovely Autumn DayXin QijiI want to speak and stop; instead I say: the weather's cool, what a fine autumn!
  73. Shadow of a Solitary Wild GooseSu ShiWho sees the recluse coming and going alone? Only the faint shadow of a solitary wild goose.
  74. Tell Your Father at the Family AltarLu YouOn the day the imperial army settles the Central Plains in the north, at the family rites do not forget to tell your father.
  75. Cold and Lonely on the SandbarSu ShiIt tries every cold branch but will not perch; lonely and cold upon the sandbar.
  76. Subtle Principles Lodged in Bold FreedomSu ShiHe brings forth new ideas within the rules, and lodges subtle principles beyond boldness.
  77. Shooting Down the Wolf StarSu ShiI will draw my carved bow round as the full moon, gaze to the northwest, and shoot the Wolf Star.
  78. Youth Knows Nothing of Sorrow's TasteXin QijiIn youth I knew nothing of the taste of sorrow, and loved to climb high towers.
  79. The Wild Spirit of Youth RekindledSu ShiThis old man will for once let loose a young man's wildness: yellow hound on the left, grey falcon on the right, brocade caps and sable furs, a thousand horsemen sweeping the level ridge.
  80. Yellow Hound in Hand, Grey Falcon on ArmSu ShiYellow hound on the left, grey falcon on the right; brocade caps and sable furs, a thousand horsemen sweeping the level ridge.
  81. Lian Po Has Grown Old, but Can He Still EatXin QijiWho will come to ask: Lian Po has grown old, but can he still eat?
  82. How Could One Word Like Sorrow Hold It AllLi QingzhaoAt such a time as this, how could one word, sorrow, hold it all!
  83. Holding Hands and Gazing Through TearsLiu YongHolding hands, we gaze at each other's tearful eyes, so choked that no words come.
  84. Recovering the Old Hills and Rivers of the RealmYue FeiLet us begin anew, recover our old hills and rivers, and then pay homage at the palace gates.
  85. Ducks Are First to Know the Spring River Has WarmedSu ShiBeyond the bamboo, two or three sprays of peach blossom; when the spring river warms, the ducks know first.
  86. Returning in Triumph to the Palace GatesYue FeiLet us begin anew, recover our old hills and rivers, and then pay homage at the palace gates.
  87. Willow Banks in the Dawn Wind Under a Waning MoonLiu YongWhere shall I be tonight when I wake from the wine? On a willow bank, in the dawn wind, under a waning moon.
  88. Seen Across, a Ridge; Seen Edgewise, a PeakSu ShiSeen across, it is a ridge; seen edgewise, a peak; from far or near, high or low, it is never the same.
  89. The Enemy Fleet Gone in Flying Ash and SmokeSu ShiWith feather fan and silk cap, talking and laughing, he turned their masts and oars to flying ash and vanishing smoke.
  90. In Death, Still a Hero Among the ShadesLi QingzhaoIn life, be a hero among men; in death, a hero among the shades.
  91. Swallowing Ten Thousand Li with a Tiger's MightXin QijiThink of those days: golden spears and armoured horses, swallowing ten thousand li like a tiger.
  92. A Thousand Lines of Tears at a Dream ReunionSu ShiWe looked at each other without a word; there were only a thousand lines of tears.
  93. Heroes Washed Away by the Waves of the Great RiverSu ShiThe great river flows east; its waves have washed away the heroes of a thousand ages.
  94. The Clear Breeze and Bright Moon Were Never for SaleOuyang XiuThe clear breeze and bright moon are beyond price; what a pity they sold for only forty thousand cash.
  95. Washed by Clear Ripples Yet Never ShowyZhou DunyiI alone love the lotus, which rises from the mud unstained and is washed by clear ripples yet never showy.
  96. A Son Should Be Like Sun Quan of WuXin QijiWho among the world's heroes could match him? Only Cao and Liu. A son should be like Sun Zhongmou.
  97. In Life, Be a Hero Among MenLi QingzhaoIn life, be a hero among men; in death, a hero among the shades.
  98. Leaving a Loyal Heart to Shine in the Annals of HistoryWen TianxiangSince ancient times, who has not died? Let me leave a loyal heart to shine in the annals of history.
  99. The Low Ridge of Young Pines over a Beloved GraveSu ShiI know the place that breaks my heart year after year: the moonlit night, the low ridge of young pines.
  100. Grieving in Vain When Hair Turns WhiteYue FeiDo not let your young head turn white in idleness, only to grieve in vain!
  101. Envied by All the Other BlossomsLu YouIt has no wish to struggle for the spring, and lets all the other flowers envy it as they will.
  102. Petals Drift Down as the River Flows OnLi QingzhaoPetals drift down of themselves, the river flows on of itself; one longing, two places of quiet sorrow.
  103. Do Not Let Youth Slip By IdlyYue FeiDo not let your young head turn white in idleness, only to grieve in vain!
  104. Flowing Where It Ought to FlowSu ShiAll that can be known is that it always flows where it ought to flow and always stops where it cannot help but stop; that is all!
  105. Standing Inside the Mountain ItselfSu ShiI cannot know the true face of Mount Lu only because I stand inside the mountain itself.
  106. Too Laden with Sorrow to FloatLi QingzhaoI only fear the little grasshopper boat on the Twin Streams could never carry so much sorrow.
  107. Drunk, I Trim the Lamp to Gaze at My SwordXin QijiDrunk, I trim the lamp to gaze at my sword; waking from dreams, I hear bugles across camp after camp.
  108. Duckweed Battered by the RainWen TianxiangOur land lies shattered like willow down in the wind; my own life rises and sinks like duckweed battered by rain.
  109. Fallen to Mud and Ground into DustLu YouFallen to mud and ground into dust, only its fragrance stays as it was.
  110. Green Hills Cannot Hold the River BackXin QijiThe green hills cannot hold it back; in the end the river flows away to the east.
  111. All the Old Glory Swept Away by Rain and WindXin QijiDance halls and singing terraces, all that heroic glory, have been beaten away by rain and wind.
  112. Too Cold Up in the Jade TowersSu ShiI would ride the wind back home, yet fear the towers of jasper and jade are so high I could not bear the cold.
  113. Unafraid of Clouds That Block the ViewWang AnshiI do not fear the drifting clouds that block my view, simply because I stand on the highest level.
  114. Trimming the Cold Lamp Through a Sleepless NightZhu ShuzhenGrief and illness follow one upon another; I trim the cold lamp to its end, yet no dream will come.
  115. Half an Acre of Square PondZhu XiHalf an acre of square pond opens like a mirror; the light of the sky and the shadows of clouds drift together upon it.
  116. Sky Light and Cloud Shadows on the Square PondZhu XiA half-acre square pond opens like a mirror; sky light and cloud shadows drift together upon it.
  117. Having Given My All: Wang Anshi at Baochan MountainWang AnshiIf I have given my all and still cannot arrive, I may have no regrets; who then could mock me?
  118. How Refreshing Is This WindSu ZheHow refreshing is this wind! Is this something I share with the common people?
  119. Naming Any Object, He Wrote a Poem on ItWang AnshiFrom then on, whenever an object was named, he wrote a poem on it at once, and its style and thought had merit.
  120. Once More the Spring Wind Greens the Southern ShoreWang AnshiThe spring wind once more greens the southern shore of the river; when will the bright moon light my way home?
  121. The Ferry Crossing Lost in Moonlit MistQin GuanMist swallows the towers, the moon blurs the ferry crossing; I gaze until my eyes give out, and the Peach Blossom Spring is nowhere to be found.
  122. Lotus Leaves Clear and Round Upon the WaterZhou BangyanThe early sun on the leaves dries the night's rain; on the water, clear and round, one by one the lotuses lift in the wind.
  123. Depth in Seeking and ReflectingWang AnshiBecause their seeking and reflecting were deep, and there was nowhere they did not reach.
  124. Sunk Back Among the Ordinary CrowdWang AnshiThey said: 'He has sunk back among the ordinary crowd.'
  125. Like a Sound in the Air: Yan Yu on the Magic of PoetryYan YuLike a sound in the air, colour in a form, the moon in water, an image in a mirror; the words come to an end, but the meaning is endless.
  126. Won by Effort, Not Given by Heaven: Zeng Gong's Ink PondZeng GongXizhi's calligraphy became excellent only late in life, so his ability must have been won by his own effort, not given by nature.
  127. Slender Clouds Weave Their Artful Patterns on QixiQin GuanSlender clouds weave artful patterns, shooting stars carry their grief, and across the far Milky Way they secretly cross.
  128. Towers Lost in the Mist at ChenzhouQin GuanIn the mist the towers are lost; in the moonlight the ferries vanish; I gaze to the end of sight, and the Peach Blossom Spring is nowhere to be found.
  129. Extraordinary Sights Found Only in Remote PlacesWang AnshiYet the wonderful, magnificent, strange and extraordinary sights of the world are often in dangerous and remote places that people rarely reach, so those without determination cannot get there.
  130. Letting No Outward Thing Wound One's Inner NatureSu ZheIf his heart is at ease and he lets no outward thing wound his nature, where will he go and not be happy?
  131. A House of Gold Lies in BooksZhao Heng (traditionally attributed)To live in comfort you need not build a lofty hall; within books there is a house of gold.
  132. Swallows Return, as if Known BeforeYan ShuNothing can be done: the flowers fall away; as if I knew them before, the swallows come back.
  133. Plum Blossoms Opening Alone in the ColdWang AnshiIn the corner of the wall, a few sprays of plum open alone, braving the cold.
  134. Fifteen Strings of CashAnonymous (Song–Yuan storytellers)I was at my wits' end and had no other way, so I had to pawn you to a merchant; and because I could not bear to part with you, I only took fifteen strings of cash.
  135. A Pagoda a Thousand Fathoms HighWang AnshiOn Feilai Hill stands a pagoda a thousand fathoms high; I have heard that at cockcrow one sees the sun rise from it.
  136. The Little Lotus Just Shows Its Pointed TipYang WanliThe little lotus has just shown its pointed tip, and already a dragonfly stands on top of it.
  137. New Peach Charms Replace the OldWang AnshiOn a thousand gates and ten thousand homes the bright sun shines, and all replace the old peach charms with new.
  138. Unmoved Though Mount Tai Collapse Before Him: Su Xun on GeneralshipSu XunThe way of the general is first to govern his mind. When Mount Tai collapses before him and his face does not change, when a deer springs up at his side and his eyes do not blink, then he can master gain and loss and face the enemy.
  139. Burning Aloeswood to Dispel the Summer HeatZhou BangyanI burn aloeswood to dispel the sultry summer heat.
  140. Firecrackers Sound Out the Old Year: Wang Anshi's New Year's DayWang AnshiAmid the crackle of firecrackers the old year departs; the spring wind brings warmth into the Tusu wine.
  141. From Thrift to Luxury Is Easy, Back Is Hard: Sima Guang's Letter to His SonSima GuangBut it is human nature that from thrift to luxury is easy, and from luxury back to thrift is hard.
  142. Because I Stand on the Highest Level: Wang Anshi on Feilai PeakWang AnshiI do not fear drifting clouds will block my view, simply because I stand on the highest level.
  143. Each Lotus Leaf Lifted by the Wind: Zhou Bangyan's Summer PondZhou BangyanThe early sun dries last night's rain on the leaves; on the water, fresh and round, the lotus leaves are lifted one by one by the wind.

Yuan

30 works

1260–1368

  1. Gold and Jade Outside, Rotten Cotton WithinLiu BowenWhere can one go and not find gold and jade on the outside, and rotten cotton within?
  2. Dou E's Tears Streaming DownGuan HanqingAh, all I am left with are tears streaming from both eyes.
  3. Cold Fragrance Drifting Through the CourtyardMa ZhiyuanDew on the roses, rain on the lotus leaves, frost on the chrysanthemums, cold fragrance in the courtyard.
  4. Ancient Road and West Wind in Autumn ThoughtsMa ZhiyuanAn ancient road, the west wind, a lean horse. The sun sets in the west; a heartbroken traveler at the edge of the world.
  5. Fallen Petals Scent the River at DuskMa ZhiyuanFallen petals scent the water, the thatched huts grow dark; at the broken bridge, the fish sellers have gone.
  6. Heaven Misjudges the Good and the WickedGuan HanqingEarth, you cannot tell good from bad, how can you be earth? Heaven, you misjudge the worthy and the foolish, you are heaven in vain!
  7. Blue-Cloud Skies Above the Long Pavilion FarewellWang ShifuBlue-cloud sky, yellow-flowered earth; the west wind blows hard, and the northern geese fly south.
  8. Frosted Woods Dyed Red by the Tears of PartingWang ShifuAt dawn, who has dyed the frosted woods as red as a drunkard's face? It is always the tears of those who part.
  9. A Bronze Pea That Will Not CrackGuan HanqingI am a bronze pea that will not steam soft, will not boil through, will not pound flat, will not fry and pop, a pea that rings like metal.
  10. Frosted Woods Flushed as If with WineWang ShifuWho dyed the frosted woods this morning, flushed as if with wine? It must be the tears of those who part.
  11. Yellow Chrysanthemums Carpet the GroundWang ShifuBlue clouds in the sky, yellow flowers on the ground, the west wind sharp, wild geese flying south.
  12. Reciting a Text After One ReadingToqto'a (comp.)When he began his studies and received the classics, he could recite them after one reading.
  13. You and I, So Deeply EntwinedGuan DaoshengYou and I, so deeply entwined, our love is overflowing; where love is deep, it burns like fire.
  14. Wide Learning and a Powerful MemoryToqto'a (comp.)He was bright and quick by nature, widely read with a powerful memory; he could recite more than a thousand characters a day and draw a bow of one shi and five dou.
  15. Homing Geese Across the Autumn SkyZhang KejiuFacing the green hills I force myself to straighten my black gauze cap; homing geese cross the autumn sky, and the weary traveller longs for home.
  16. Composed and Unhurried in the Enemy CampToqto'a (comp.)The Jin commander Wolibu kept him in the camp for ten days, and the emperor remained calm and at ease.
  17. You in My Clay and I in YoursGuan DaoshengIn my clay there is you, and in your clay there is me.
  18. Father and Son Fall Together: The Jingkang DisasterToqto'a (comp.)In the end father and son fell together, and the altars of the state were overgrown with weeds.
  19. Laughing Proudly Among Forests and Springs: Qiao Ji's Self-PortraitQiao JiLaughing proudly among forests and springs, I have scattered fame and profit to the winds.
  20. Red Leaves and Yellow Flowers in Bai Pu's Autumn SceneBai PuGreen hills and blue water; white grass, red leaves, yellow flowers.
  21. Muddling Through by Old Routine: Wang Anshi's Ten-Thousand-Word MemorialToqto'a (comp.)I hope Your Majesty will take warning from the harm of complacent routine, give clear orders to the ministers, and carry out change by degrees to meet the changes of the age.
  22. Bones of Snow and Flesh of Ice: The Plum BlossomQiao JiBones of snow and flesh of ice, the substance of jade and the fragrance of orchids.
  23. The Six Classics Annotate Me, and I Annotate the Six ClassicsToqto'a (comp.)If in learning one truly understands the Way, the Six Classics are all footnotes to me.
  24. Handling Ships the Way Horsemen Handle HorsesToqto'a (comp.)The southern army handles ships the way we handle horses; what can we do?
  25. Let the South Keep to the South, the North to the NorthToqto'a (comp.)If you want the realm to be at peace, let the south keep to the south and the north to the north.
  26. Pleasure and Vexation Kept from the FaceToqto'a (comp.)By nature he was humane, filial and generous, and neither pleasure nor anger showed on his face.
  27. A Ruler Dies with His Altars of StateToqto'a (comp.)Even so, by the Rites, which say that a ruler dies with his altars of state, Aizong has nothing to be ashamed of.
  28. A Soldier Should Speak of War, Not of PeaceToqto'a (comp.)I am a man of armour and helmet; I should speak of war, not of peace.
  29. Easier to Shake a Mountain Than the Yue Family ArmyToqto'a (comp.)It is easy to shake a mountain, hard to shake the Yue family army.
  30. A Moment of Spring Night Is Worth a Thousand in GoldZheng GuangzuHave you never heard that a moment of a spring night is worth a thousand in gold!

Ming

15 works

1368–1644

  1. A Person Without Good FaithWu Cheng'en (traditionally attributed)The stone monkey sat upright on high and said: "Friends, 'a person without good faith, who knows how they can get by.'
  2. Sky and Lake One Seamless WhiteZhang DaiFrost mist filled the air; sky and clouds and hills and water were all one white, above and below.
  3. The Loquat Tree Now Tall as a CanopyGui YouguangIn the courtyard is a loquat tree that my wife planted with her own hands in the year she died; now it stands tall, spreading like a canopy.
  4. A Hundred and Eight Characters, Each Unlike the RestJin ShengtanThe Water Margin depicts the natures of a hundred and eight people, and truly they are a hundred and eight different kinds.
  5. Free of Fixed Forms and FormulasYuan HongdaoMost of my younger brother Xiaoxiu's poems express his own spirit and are not bound by fixed forms; unless the words flowed from his own heart, he would not set them down.
  6. A Mind Grown Clear and StillTan YuanchunWe sat in silence for a long time, and our minds grew clear and still.
  7. Expressing One's Own True Spirit: The Gong'an School CreedYuan HongdaoThey mostly express his own spirit and do not follow set forms; unless it flowed from his own heart, he would not set down his brush.
  8. Pearls Beneath the Brush with No Buyer: Xu Wei's Ink GrapesXu WeiThe bright pearls beneath my brush have nowhere to be sold; idly I toss them among the wild vines.
  9. Green Mist and Red Haze over West Lake's Su CausewayYuan HongdaoFrom the Broken Bridge to the Su Causeway, green mist and red haze spread for more than twenty li.
  10. A Swan Let Out of Its Cage: Yuan Hongdao at ManjingYuan HongdaoGazing over the open expanse, I felt like a swan let out of its cage.
  11. Book Box on the Back, Dragging Worn Shoes: Song Lian's Hard Road to LearningSong LianWhen I followed my teacher, I would carry my book box on my back and drag my shoes through deep mountains and great valleys.
  12. Facing Death Without a Second Thought: the Five Men of SuzhouZhang PuStirred by a great cause, they went to their deaths without a backward glance. What could be the reason?
  13. Dongting Red Oranges: Wen Ruoxu's Lucky VoyageLing MengchuIt cost a tenth of the price of Fujian oranges, and was called Dongting Red.
  14. A Long Road Proves a Horse's StrengthAnonymous (anonymous Ming and Qing compilers)A long road proves a horse's strength; long days reveal a person's heart.
  15. Only When Needed Do We Find Our Reading Too LittleAnonymous (anonymous Ming and Qing compilers)Only when books are needed do we regret having read too few; without going through a thing one does not know how hard it is.

Qing

39 works

1636–1912

  1. You Finish Your Song and I Take the StageCao XueqinIn noisy confusion, you finish your song and I take the stage, mistaking a strange land for home.
  2. The Beauty Who Shone in the AnnalsWu WeiyeHis whole family lies as white bones and dust; the beauty of an age shines in the annals.
  3. Seeing Things Through the SelfWang GuoweiIn the realm with self, one sees things through the self, so all things bear the colouring of the self.
  4. Seeing Things as ThingsWang GuoweiIn the realm without self, one sees things as things, so one does not know which is the self and which is the thing.
  5. One Hair-Raising Rage for a BeautyWu WeiyeThe six armies wept, all clad in mourning white; his hair-raising rage was for a rosy-cheeked beauty.
  6. Breaking Through the Nets of ConventionTan SitongSo to break through the nets is never to have broken through them at all.
  7. A Future as Boundless as the SeaLiang QichaoBehind it stretch a thousand ages, around it the eight wildernesses; its future is as boundless as the sea, its days still long ahead.
  8. Becoming Spring Earth to Nourish the FlowersGong ZizhenTurning into spring earth, they go on to nourish the flowers.
  9. Biting Fast into the Green MountainZheng BanqiaoIt bites fast into the green mountain and never lets go.
  10. The Realm as Master, the Ruler as Guest: Huang ZongxiHuang ZongxiIn ancient times the realm was the master and the ruler the guest; all that the ruler laboured at throughout his life was for the realm.
  11. A Book of Lonely Indignation: Pu Songling's PrefacePu SonglingDrinking as I wrote, I made only a book of lonely indignation; to have placed my feelings in such a thing is sad indeed!
  12. My Heart Is Not Yet Dead: Xi Fangping Defies the UnderworldPu SonglingMy great wrong is not yet righted, and my heart is not yet dead. If I said I would not sue, I would deceive Your Majesty. I will sue!
  13. Shops Undisturbed: Xu Da Takes the Yuan CapitalZhang Tingyu (comp.)Officials and people lived in peace, and the market shops did not change.
  14. Clear the Moment the Book Is OpenedKangxi Emperor (comp.)Divided by sections and set in order, it is clear the moment the book is opened; no meaning is left unexplained and no sound unrecorded.
  15. Judging by Theory AloneJi YunThere are many cases where we know one side but not the other; can we judge by reasoning alone?
  16. The Realm Where the Self DisappearsWang GuoweiIn the realm without the self, one views things through things, so one cannot tell which is the self and which is the thing.
  17. The Realm Where the Self Is PresentWang GuoweiIn the realm with the self, one views things through the self, so all things bear the colour of the self.
  18. Gazing Toward Jiangnan Till Sight Fails: Gu Taiqing to a FriendGu TaiqingI raise my cup and question heaven, but heaven is silent; from the heights I gaze until the trees of Jiangnan fade from sight.
  19. Studying Antiquity and Honouring Letters: Qianlong's Book EdictJi Yun (Ji Xiaolan), Qianlong Emperor (comp.)We study antiquity and honour letters as an aid to government, and in the leisure from affairs We study the classics, diligent day by day.
  20. Inheriting the Throne and Upholding the Laws: the Longqing EmperorZhang Tingyu (comp.)Inheriting the throne and upholding the laws, he may be called a good ruler.
  21. Betraying the Public Good for Private Ends: the Wanli Edict of 1572Zhang Tingyu (comp.)If they sink back into old habits, betraying the public good for private ends and offending the ancestors, We will not dare to pardon them.
  22. A Lofty Style of Its Own: Wang Guowei's JingjieWang GuoweiWith a poetic world, a lyric naturally attains a lofty style and naturally has famous lines.
  23. Dark Mountains Bearing Snow: Yao Nai Climbs Mount TaiYao NaiThe dark mountains bore snow on their backs, its brightness lighting the southern sky.
  24. It Is My People Who Suffer: the Chongzhen Emperor on Coal HillZhang Tingyu (comp.)It is only my people who suffer.
  25. Thought Commonplace at the TimeNalan XingdeHeavy with wine in spring sleep, I was not woken; quoting books, we spilled the fragrant tea. At the time I thought it merely ordinary.
  26. Of Two Harms, Take the LesserZhao Erxun (comp.)When two harms are compared, take the lighter.
  27. Two Kunlun Peaks of CourageTan SitongI draw my sword and laugh toward the sky; those who go and those who stay, loyal hearts, are two Kunlun peaks!
  28. Troops Prized for Quality, Not NumbersZhao Erxun (comp.)From this I know that troops are prized for quality, not numbers.
  29. Hills Beyond Hills in the Setting SunLi Shutong (Master Hongyi)The evening wind stirs the willows, the flute dies away; the setting sun over hills beyond hills.
  30. A Change Unseen in Thousands of YearsLi HongzhangWhen one country makes trouble, the others stir it up; this is truly a change unseen in thousands of years.
  31. Land Tilled Together, Food Shared Together: The Taiping IdealHong Xiuquan (traditionally attributed)Let all under heaven share the great blessing of the Heavenly Father, the Lord and Sovereign God: land tilled together, food eaten together, clothes worn together, money used together, so that nowhere is unequal and no one is hungry or cold.
  32. If You Would Not Have It Known, Do Not Do It: Wei Dazhong's MemorialZhang Tingyu (comp.)Your Majesty says the palace is closely guarded and the outer court cannot know, but Mei Cheng said: if you would not have others know, do not do it. There has never been a deed done that others did not know.
  33. Where the Lamplight Is Dim: Wang Guowei's Third RealmWang GuoweiIn the crowd I searched for her a thousand times; suddenly I turned my head, and there she was, where the lamplight was dim.
  34. A True King's Army Is Like Timely Rain: Zuo Zongtang in XinjiangZhao Erxun (comp.)Wherever the great army goes, let there be no rape or plunder and no slaughter. The army of a true king is like timely rain, and now is its time.
  35. No Joy Greater Than Reading: Jin Shengtan and the West ChamberJin ShengtanLiving between heaven and earth, there is no greater joy than reading.
  36. Fragrant Grass Green to the Sky's Edge: Li Shutong's Farewell SongLi Shutong (Master Hongyi)Outside the long pavilion, beside the ancient road, the fragrant grass is green to the sky's edge.
  37. The Sash Grows Loose, Yet No Regrets: Wang Guowei's Second RealmWang GuoweiMy sash grows ever looser, yet I have no regrets; for her I am worn and wasted, and it is worth it.
  38. In Lyric Poetry the Realm Comes First: Wang Guowei's Opening PrincipleWang GuoweiIn lyric poetry the realm comes first. A lyric that has a realm will naturally have lofty style and famous lines.
  39. The Revolution Has Not Yet Succeeded: Sun Yat-sen's Last ChargeSun ZhongshanNow the revolution has not yet succeeded. All my comrades must follow my Plans for National Reconstruction, Fundamentals of National Reconstruction, Three Principles of the People and the Manifesto of the First National Congress, and continue to strive until they are carried out.