Shih Ching (Book of Odes 11th-7th cent. BC)

Lamenting the Absence of a Cherished Friend

1
Though small my basket, all my toil

Filled it with mouse-ears but in part.

I set it on the path, and sighed

For the dear master of my heart.

2My steeds, o’ertasked, their progress stayed,
When midway up that rocky height.
Give me a cup from that gilt vase,
When shall this longing end in sight?

3To mount that lofty ridge I drove,
Until my steeds all changed their hue.
A cup from that rhinoceros’ horn
May help my longing to subdue.

4
Striving to reach that flat-topped hill,
My steeds, worn out, relaxed their strain;
My driver also sank oppressed:
I’ll never see my lord again!