Setting sun shines on half the river . . .
This time of day I take walks alone.
Sunset can deepen sadness:
but autumn purifies the poet’s heart.
Birds peck a rotting willow:
Insects cling to its dying leaves.
I still feel homesick. Why?
Now that I’ve finally come home.
translated by J.P. Seaton
14th Century Chinese poetry
from Four Verses, #4 by Chang Yang-hao
I live here retired, apart
from the dust of the vulgar.
Clouds and mist, it’s peaceful.
A thousand mountains’ green surround the hut:
I’m the old man in the painting.
Look at this limitless beauty. . .
Could I put it down
and serve again?
translated by J.P. Seaton
Leonard Durso 