Classic Poem

TWO POEMS

1

My charioteer hastens to yoke my carriage,
For I must go on a journey far away.
" Where are you going on your journey far away? "
To the land of Wu where my enemies are,
But I must ride many thousand miles,
Beyond the Eastern Road that leads to Wu.
Between the rivers bitter winds blow,
Swiftly flow the waters of Huai and Ssu.
I want to take a skiff and cross these rivers,
But alas for me, where shall I find a boat?
To sit idle is not my desire:
Gladly enough would I go to my country's aid.

(2)

(He abandons the campaign)

I N the north-west there is a floating cloud
Stretched on high, like a chariot's canvas-awning.
Alas that I was born in these times,
To be blown along like a cloud puffed by the wind.
It has blown me away far to the South-east,
On and on till I came to Wu-hui.
Wu-hui is not my country:
Why should I go on staying and staying here?
I will give it up and never speak of it again, —
This being abroad and always living in dread.