A FAREWELL BANQUET TO MY FATHER'S YOUNGER BROTHER YÜN, THE IMPERIAL LIBRARIAN

BY LI T'AI-PO

When I was young, I spent the white days lavishly.

I sang—I laughed—I boasted of my ruddy face.

I do not realize that now, suddenly, I am old.

With joy I see the Spring wind return.

It is a pity that we must part, but let us make the best of it and be happy.

We walk to and fro among the peach-trees and plum-trees.

We look at the flowers and drink excellent wine.

We listen to the birds and climb a little way up the bright hills.

Soon evening comes and the bamboo grove is silent.

There is no one—I shut my door.