Airs of the States

Cao Chong (The Grass Insect)

Chapter 14

Preface: "The Grasshopper" speaks of how the wife of a high official is able to use ritual propriety to guard herself.

Chirping, chirping, the grasshopper calls; hopping, hopping, the locust springs. Not having seen my lord, my anxious heart is restless and ill at ease.

If I have already seen him, if I have already met him, then my heart will be at peace!

I climb that southern hill to gather the bracken ferns. Not having seen my lord, my anxious heart is laden with sorrow and distress.

If I have already seen him, if I have already met him, then my heart will be filled with joy!

I climb that southern hill to gather the vetch shoots. Not having seen my lord, my heart is grieved and full of sadness.

If I have already seen him, if I have already met him, then my heart will be calm and serene!

"The Grasshopper" has three stanzas, each of seven lines.