Farewell to Wei, a Military Officer
- Poetry of Gao Shi

I came at twenty with my sword and books

And visited the west capital town.

I gazed at your mansion with longing looks

And thought it easy to attain renown.

The emperor surpassed the ancient kings,

Music and rites were performed up and down.

He lavished on his favorites jade rings,

But unknown talents can't come near the Crown.

What could I do but come back to my land?

Going east, I could not do what I wish.

I cannot earn a living by the hand,

Nor would I with a hook and line catch fish.

For the world, like a common people I appear;

But for you, I am dear and near as a compeer.

From year to year I thank you for your friendly way;

You've not refused a helping hand, not for a day.

We play chess and on lute till day fades into night;

We drink and croon in spring with willows in delight.

We'll separate when our joy has not come to an end.

How can my heart not be grieved to part with my friend?

But men at parting should not grieve as women do,

So shed no tears at crossroads when we bid adieu!

二十解书剑，西游长安城。

举头望君门，屈指取公卿。

国风冲融迈三五，朝廷欢乐弥寰宇。

白璧皆言赐近臣，布衣不得干明主。

归来洛阳无负郭，东过梁宋非吾土。

兔苑为农岁不登，雁池垂钓心长苦。

世人遇我同众人，唯君于我最相亲。

且喜百年见交态，未尝一日辞家贫。

弹棋击筑白日晚，纵酒高歌杨柳春。

欢娱未尽分散去，使我惆怅惊心神。

丈夫不作儿女别，临岐涕泪沾衣巾。