History & Politics
The Shang-Shang Chay Hwa
Translated by James Legge (1876) · From The She King (1876), Part II, Book VI
Like the flowers which splendid shine,
Amidst the leaves that cluster dense,
Are these noble lords of mine,
On whom I look with joy intense.
All that my heart desires in them is met ;
Praise and good fortune they deserve to get.
Like the flowers that splendid shine,
Displaying yellow’s deepest hue,
Are these noble lords of mine,
In whom such elegance I view.
In all their words and manners is no flaw ;—
So to themselves all blessing shall they draw.
Like the flowers that splendid shine,
Some yellow, some of purest white,
Are these noble lords of mine,
Urging their steeds to rapid flight.
White are the steeds they drive, but black their manes,
And soft and glossy in their hands the reins!
Left or right they wheel and move.
Each order given they straight obey.
Instant their skill and power they prove
Equal, as needed, to display.
Boundless resources in themselves there dwell ;
’Tis right their outward movements should excel!
Codex Note
Responsive to the former;—the king celebrates the praises of the princes.
Cite this poem
MLA
Shi Jing (The Book of Songs). “The Shang-Shang Chay Hwa.” Translated by James Legge. Poetry Codex, poetrycodex.com/poem/shi-jing/209/.
Chicago
Shi Jing (The Book of Songs). “The Shang-Shang Chay Hwa.” Translated by James Legge. Poetry Codex. https://poetrycodex.com/poem/shi-jing/209/.
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