Bamboo and Plum Blossom

Bamboo and Plum Blossom

Bamboo and Plum Blossom

Bamboo and Plum Blossom
Bamboo and Plum Blossom

Tuesday, July 14, 2015

Wang Bo (649-676)

Farewell To Vice-Prefect Du Setting Out For His Official Post In Shu — by Wang Bo
王勃《送杜少府之任蜀州》
城阙辅三秦,
风烟望五津。
与君离别意,
同是宦游人。
海内存知己,
天涯若比邻。
无为在岐路,
儿女共沾巾。
Farewell To Vice-Prefect Du Setting Out For His Official Post In Shu
By Wang Bo

By this wall that surrounds the three Qin districts,
Through a mist that makes five rivers one,
We bid each other a sad farewell,
We two officials going opposite ways….
And yet, while China holds our friendship,
And heaven remains our neighbourhood,
Why should you linger at the fork of the road,
Wiping your eyes like a heart-broken child?

This poem was written by Wang Bo in Chang’an City when his friend surnamed Du was leaving to take office as a county official in Sichuan province, the poet saw him off in Chang’an City and presented his friend this farewell poem. The poem describes their profound friendship and also expresses his sincerity and encouragement to his friend.

1 comment:

  1. I love these!

    "Farewell to Du, Posted to the House of Shu."

    By Shaanxi's palace gate,
    Through wind and smoke the state.
    And handshake parting,
    Officials leaving.
    Friends with memories,
    Presenting hankies.
    There is no starting,
    Two children grieving.

    ReplyDelete