The Eastern Suburbs (Wei Yingwu: The Eastern Suburbs)

All year confined within official walls, I step beyond the eastern suburbs—my heart opens wide in the clear morning light. Willows drift with the warm breeze, and the green mountain haze makes my thoughts tranquil and serene. Leaning against a grove of trees, I rest at ease; wandering along the stream, I pace back and forth. Fine rain veils the fragrant plain—where do the spring doves call? My love of quiet is often checked; bound by official duties, my steps remain hurried. Yet one day I will resign and return, build a cottage here, and admire Tao Yuanming's true reclusive life—perhaps that will be nearly attainable.