Male Pheasant

Preface to "Xiong Zhi": The poem "Xiong Zhi" satirizes Duke Xuan of Wei. He was dissolute and disorderly, showing no concern for state affairs, repeatedly mobilizing armies for campaigns, causing high officials to serve long-term on military expeditions. Both men and women resented the wasted time due to separation, and the people of the state, deeply troubled by this, composed this poem.

The male pheasant soars in the sky, slowly spreading its feathers. In my heart I deeply long for him—this separation I have brought upon myself.

The male pheasant soars in the sky, its calls now high, now low. That honest and upright gentleman truly wearies my heart with longing.

I gaze at the sun and moon in their courses; my thoughts stretch endlessly. The road is so distant—when will he ever return?

You many gentlemen do not understand how to cultivate your virtue. If only you were free from envy and greed, what undertaking could you not accomplish well?

"Xiong Zhi" consists of four stanzas, each with four lines.