Ancient Poet Poem by Etienne Charilaou
Ancient Poet
In haste I read the Li Sao
for the hourglass empties apace
and I fear regret now
lest other works be unread
in life's dreadful race.
‘Life I adapted to the ancient way,
Leaving the manners of the present day;
Thus unconforming to the modern age,
The path I followed of a bygone sage.'
These words with me did chime
of Qu Yuan's illustrious rhyme;
for which his heart had bled,
and through which I sped.
I will pause a while,
allow silver birches to beguile.
Leaving the manners of the present day;
Thus unconforming to the modern age,
The path I followed of a bygone sage.'
From a translation of the poem ‘Li Sao' by Qu Yuan (340 - 278 B.C.)
Thus unconforming to the modern age, The path I followed of a bygone sage.' This is a lovely tribute to the great poet Qu Yuan. Thanks.
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem
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4/26/2024 6:00:23 AM # 1.0.0.1119
I am surprised to read your poem inspired by the very ancient Chinese poet Qu Yuan. Li Sao is considered as the longest romantic and lyrical poem on political ideal in the history of the classical Chinese poetry. Very unique. We just finished the annual Dragon Boat Festival (Duan Wu) on 30 June (the 5th day of Chinese lunar month, specially for memorizing Qu Yuan) . On this occasion, I see your work as a tribute to the great ancient poet. I’m glad his great piece still influences the people after thousands of years. World is large, but poetry is without borders. Time flies, but fine poetry never dies. Much appreciated, Etienne.