Huan xi sha (Li Ch’ing-chao [1084–1151])

I.

In the little courtyard, by the window,
Spring’s colors deepen;
With the double blinds unfurled,
The gloom thickens.
Upstairs, wordless,
The strumming of a jasper lute.

Far-off hills, jutting peaks
Hasten the thinning of the dusk,
Gentle wind, blowing rain
Play with light shade.
Pear blossoms are about to fall
But there’s no helping that.

II.

Mild and peaceful Spring glow; Cold Food Day.
From a jade censer, incense curls out in wisps of smoke.
My dream returns me to the hills of my pillow, hiding my hairpins.
The sea swallows have not yet arrived,
Idly we duel with blades of grass.
By the river the plum trees have bloomed,
Catkins sprout from the willow.
And at dusk scattered showers
Sprinkle the garden swing.