I Must Return /归去来兮辞

Return, return. The fields are overgrown, why not go back My spirit enslaved by the body. Why alone in sorrow, sigh and slack Past mistakes can't be undone. Future paths still open wide Not too far lost, I realize now. The errors of yesteryear I cast aside The small boat gently rocks on the waves. A breeze whispers, caressing my sleeve I ask the traveler where the path leads. Morning light dimmed, the sky yet to cleave At last I see my humble home. Run with joy, heart aglow Servants, children all welcome me. Overgrown paths, pines and chrysanthemums enrow With children, I step inside. Full cups of wine, awaiting delight Pouring for myself, I gaze at the tree. Contentment flows, my spirit light By the south window, I quietly leave. This small space, my soul serene Daily walks in the garden, joy profound. Though doors are shut, solitude not found With a cane, I leisurely stroll. Sometimes look up the distant goal Clouds drift from the mountain without a care. Weary birds find their nests there The sun sets, and I touch the lowing pine. Reluctant to part, the moment divine Decide to return, worldly ties I sever. No longer caught in the mundane endeavor Converse with friends, joy in sharing. Playing the lute, reading sorrows sparing Farmers tell me spring has come. To the western fields, busy I become Decide to return, worldly ties I sever. No longer caught in the mundane endeavor Converse with friends, joy in sharing. Playing the lute, reading sorrows sparing Farmers tell me spring has come. To the western fields, busy I become Sometimes in a carriage, sometimes rowing. Exploring valleys, over hills going Trees thrive, springs softly flow. All things in time, my life to follow Let it be, how long in this world can I stay? Why not follow my heart, let come what may Riches I don't see, nor a fairyland dream. In the beauty of now, my soul redeemed Perhaps planting my cane, I'll weep the ground. Climb the high hills, with a shout unbound By the clear river, poems I'll write. Embrace the fate, with nature's light