Song of the Men of Chin-Ling

We present this work in honor of China’s National Day.

Xie Tiao
Chinese
464 – 499

 

Chiang-nan is a glorious and beautiful land,
And Chin-ling an exalted and kingly province!
The green canals of the city stretch on and on
And its high towers stretch up and up.
Flying gables lean over the bridle-road:
Drooping willows cover the Royal Aqueduct.
Shrill flutes sing by the coach’s awning,
And reiterated drums bang near its painted wheels.
The names of the deserving shall be carved on the Cloud Terrace.
And for those who have done valiantly rich reward awaits.

Translation by Arthur Waley

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