Farewell to Qian Wuqian After Failing the Exam and Returning Home

Farewell to Qian Wuqian After Failing the Exam and Returning Home

In this enlightened age there are no hidden sages—

All worthy spirits return to serve the throne.

Thus the recluse of the Eastern Mountain

Can no longer turn to gathering fern alone.

Once you reached the distant palace gate,

Who now could say your path was wrong?

Through the Huai and Yangtze you passed the Cold Food Festival,

In the capital of Luoyang spring garments were made for you.

Wine is set out along the long road—

My heart walks with you, yet we must part.

Soon you will float your cassia oar,

And before long brush the humble thorn-grove door.

Far trees accompany the traveler,

A lone village stands against the fading light.

My counsel happens to go unheeded—

Do not say that those who understand are few.