Classic of Poetry

Këen-kwan went the axle ends of my carriage, As I thought of the young beauty, and went [to fetch her]. It was not that I was hungry or thirsty, But [I longed] for one of such virtuous fame to come and be with me. Although no good friends be with us, We will feast and be glad.

Dense is that forest in the plain, And there sit the long-tailed pheasants. In her proper season that well-grown lady, With her admirable virtue, is come to instruct me. We will feast, and I will praise her. ‘I love you, and will never be weary of you.’

Although I have no good spirits, We will drink [what I have], and perhaps [be satisfied]. Although I have no good viands, We will eat [what I have], and perhaps [be satisfied]. Although I have no virtue to impart to you, We will sing and dance.

I ascend that lofty ridge, And split the branches of the oaks for firewood. I split the branches of the oaks for firewood, Amid the luxuriance of their leaves. I see you whose match is seldom to be seen, And my whole heart is satisfied.

The high hill is looked up to; The great road is easy to be travelled on. My four steeds advanced without stopping; The six reins [made music] in my hands like lute-[strings]. I see you my bride, To the comfort of my heart.