Recalled together after an exile of ten years,
Again we're banished for long miles and say adieu.
We reappear but unlike our noble compeers;
Thrice in exile I feel I'm unworthy of you.
We watch returning wild geese till they're out of sight;
We're sad to hear the monkey wail with broken heart.
The Western River flows far from the Southern height.
Longing for each other, can we be kept apart?
去国十年同赴召，渡湘千里又分歧。
重临事异黄丞相，三黜名惭柳士师。
归目并随回雁尽，愁肠正遇断猿时。
桂江东过连山下，相望长吟有所思。
This poem was written by Liu Yuxi in response to a farewell poem from Liu Zongyuan. It expresses Liu Yuxi's sadness and deep longing for his friendship with Liu Zongyuan during their parting, while also reflecting their shared experiences in the political turmoil they both faced. Through delicate descriptions and clever allusions, the poet showcases his complex emotions and helplessness towards fate.
Classical Chinese poetry thrives on Concision and Ambiguity. Without tense or number, the words create a timeless space where the reader becomes the co-creator of the poem's meaning.
Look for Contrasts: light and shadow, movement and stillness. Don't just translate the words; feel the Yijing (artistic conception) that lingers long after the last character.
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