Sullen as rain-soaked crimson flowers, too heavy for the wind to lift.
Even old friends, now distant, when we meet, words falter and drift.
Long I gaze: the ruined city, sunset, lakes and seas in mist's embrace.
Where are you now? Could word be sent to our old dwelling place?
Casual talk recalls that time, the exile Su and Li by the sea.
Snow fell deep, night wrapped us like a quilt, boundless and free.
I thought of joining hands, but Heaven stayed mute, the river answered not our plea.
By the bridge, a cup to the setting moon, a toast to life, death, and you, poured solemnly.
I look toward your tower, faintly see long sword and square shoes, your memory.
The ancients are gone, their names in history, deemed right to be.
Who'd foresee floating or sinking, content with a fisherman's glee?
Joyful hearts, fine moments, lovely scenes, bell chimes, dancing girls, mansions grand to see.
Carved saddles, fine steeds, foreign hats—laugh at vain fame, what's it to life's decree?
Petty hopes, starving by Western Hills, eyes fixed on Eastern Gate—what joy in such destiny?
The ancients are gone. Heroes under heaven, just you, me, and he.
Hear the cock crow, rise at dawn, dance in rounds, drink deep in high towers, sing madly through the city.
Through vast eternity, the sage-kings, Zhou and Kong, their works among the stars, now see—
The Milky Way's dry bed. Laugh at yellow scrolls appointing lords, red flags announcing joy for thee.