the land of heart’s desire
is never far away
bluebird, go find out the path–
show us how to get there!
translated by David Young
9th Century Chinese poetry
from Untitled Love Poem 1 by Li Shang-yin
love is a total waste of time
you and I know that
but there’s something about its madness
that opens the eyes and clears the mind
translated by David Young
from Deva-like Barbarian, Five Lyrics: Lyric Five by Wei Chunang
Spring is bright and splendid in the city of Lo-yang;
But the man of Lo-yang grows old in another land.
The willows darken on the Prince of Wei’s embankment;
At this time I am confused and bewildered.
Alongside the blossoming peach, the spring waters run clear;
Mandarin ducks bathe in their freshness.
My regret gathers force in the setting sun;
I think of you, but you do not know it.
translated by Lois M. Fusek
from “Deva-like Barbarian,” Five Lyrics by Wei Chuang
Everyone says it is good to live south of the Yangtze;
The traveler can but stay there until he grows old.
The spring waters are more blue than the heavens;
On the painted boat drowsily I listen to the rain.
The girl who pours wine is like the moon;
Her wrists are as bright as frosted snow.
If you are not yet old, don’t return home;
To return home is to be broken hearted!
translated by Lois M. Fusek
Leonard Durso 