The Thorny Vines

Preface to "Ge Sheng": "Ge Sheng" is a poem satirizing Duke Xian of Jin. He delighted in launching military campaigns and battles, causing many in the state to lose their lives.

Kudzu vines cover the thorn trees,

Wild grapevines spread over the wilds.

My beloved is no longer in this world—

Who will keep me company, leaving me to dwell alone!

Kudzu vines cover the brambles,

Wild grapevines spread over the graveyard.

My beloved is no longer in this world—

Who will keep me company, leaving me to rest alone!

The horn pillow is so bright,

The brocade coverlet is so splendid.

My beloved is no longer in this world—

Who will keep me company, leaving me to wait until dawn!

Summer days are long,

Winter nights are long.

Only after a hundred years have passed

Can I return to his tomb.

Winter nights are long,

Summer days are long.

Only after a hundred years have passed

Can I return to his burial chamber.

"Ge Sheng" has five stanzas, each with four lines.