The Double Ninth, In Retirement

Life is short but our desires are many;

And all mankind finds joy in living long.

When day and month reach this auspicious time

Everyone rejoices in its name.

The dew is chill, the summer wind has ceased,

The air is clear and afl the sky is bright.

No trace remains of departed swallows,

The honking still echoes from passing geese.

Wine serves to exorcise all our concerns,

Chrysanthemum keeps us from growing old.

But what is the thatched-hut gentleman to do

Who helpless views time's revolutions?

The dusty cup shames the empty wine cask,

The cold fower blooms uncelebrated.

Drawing tight my robe, I sing to myself,

In my revery deepest feelings stir.

There are many joys in living here,

And just to see it through is something gained.