PagineThinking of Li Po on a Spring Day
by Tu Fu (Du Fu)
Translated by Florence Ayscough & Amy Lowell (1921) · From Fir-Flower Tablets
The poems of Po are unequalled.
His thoughts are never categorical, but fly high in the wind.
His poems are clear and fresh as those of Yü, the official;
They are fine and easy as those of Pao, the military counsellor.
I am North of the river Wei, looking at the Spring trees;
You are East of the river, watching the sunset clouds.
When shall we meet over a jug of wine?
When shall I have another precious discussion of literature with you?
This poem and this translation are in the public domain. Source text: Project Gutenberg.