Thinking of a Friend on a Moonlit Night (Wang Changling: Thinking of a Friend on a Moonlit Night)

Leisurely dwelling in the southern study, I draw back the curtain as the moon just rises.

Its clear radiance spills over the water and woods, light and shadow rippling between the windows.

The moon waxes and wanes through many cycles, its limpid glow witnessing the changes of past and present.

The one I long for, by that clear river’s shore, must tonight be chanting the songs of Yue with bitter toil.

What matter a thousand miles apart? I only wish the gentle breeze could waft the fragrance of your orchids and asarum.