The Splendid Bloom

The preface to "Huanghuang Zhe Hua" says: "Huanghuang Zhe Hua" is a poem about the ruler dispatching envoys. They are sent off with rites and music, and it speaks of the envoys traveling far and bringing glory to the court.

Luxuriantly blooming flowers, bloom on the high plains and low wetlands. The many hurrying envoys, their hearts ever fearing they may not fulfill their mission in time.

My horses are young and strong, the six reins are as smooth as if soaked in water. Driving swiftly and rushing on, they widely inquire and consult.

My horses are dappled black, the six reins are as even as silk threads. Driving swiftly and rushing on, they widely inquire and deliberate.

My horses are white-maned and black-bodied, the six reins are glossy and bright. Driving swiftly and rushing on, they widely inquire and discuss.

My horses are black and white in patches, the six reins are already well-adjusted. Driving swiftly and rushing on, they widely inquire and ask.

"Huanghuang Zhe Hua" consists of five stanzas, each with four lines.