Book III. The Odes of P‘ei: III. Yen Yen

III The Yen Yen; allusive and narrative. Chuang Chiang relates her grief at the departure of Tai Kuei, and celebrates that lady's virtue. 1With wings, not level, spread, About the swallows stir. Homeward the lady sped, And I escorted her. And when away from sight she passed, Like rain, my tears came falling fast. 2The swallows fly about, Now up, now down, they dart. She to her home set out, And I was loth to part. Her form when distance from me kept, Long time I stood, and silent wept. p. 28 3Above, beneath, then cry The flying swallows vent. Homeward she passed, and I Far with her southwards went. Her form when distance from me bore With bitter grief my heart was sore. 4This lady Chung loved me With feeling true and deep. Docile and good was she, Nor failed the light to keep. Unworthy me her deed and word Taught to respect our former lord.