Begging for Food

Hunger came and drove me out

To go I had no notion where.

I walked until I reached this town,

Knocked at a door and fumbled for words

The owner guessed what I was after

And gave it, but not just the gift alone.

We talked together all day long,

And drained our cups as the bottle passed.

Happy in our new acquaintance

We sang old songs and wrote new poems.

You are as kind as the washer woman,

But to my shame I lack Han's talent.

I have no way to show my thanks

And must repay you from the grave.