Classic Poem

Once before I loved this quiet place
and vowed that here I'd build myself a house.
How could I know I'd fall in the world's net
and not return here for ten years or more!
After loss and hardship, at least I'm in one piece;
smoke and fire have darkened the old place.
The bramble gate is far down in the alley;
in setting sunlight, willows and elms are sparse.
The old man next door, to celebrate reunion
brings over a basket with a pair of fish.
Concerned, he asks, “Sir, why is it
that your face looks different than before?”
How can he know that one who's been through trouble
has many griefs, and very few his joys!
But poverty and lowliness don't shame me;
my heart is set on living quietly.
“Please, old man, do not make fun of me:
in the end, I'm at the start once more.”