Book IV. The Odes of Yung: II. Ch‘iang Yu T‘zŭ

II The Ch‘iang Yu T‘zŭ; allusive. The things done in the harem of the palace of Wei were too shameful to be told. 1As grows on wall the Tribulus, And ’gainst the brush retains its hold; So let what's in the harem done By us without remain untold. What must be told would tongue defile With things unfit for speech, and vile. 2As grows on wall the Tribulus, Which vainly to remove we try; So let what's in the harem done By us without unspoken lie. If on details we condescend, The narrative would have no end. 3As grows on wall the Tribulus, And cannot in the sheaf be tied; So let what's in the harem done By us without untouched abide. If truth were in the tale laid bare, How foul a scene were painted there!