The Summer Palace

 
Yuan Zhen (779 – 831)
 
 
This ancient palace lies abandoned here
As remnant flowers scatter blooms bright red;
The palace maidens now are white-haired dames
Who sit in idle talk of times long dead.
 
 

A Talk with Liu

 
Bai Juyi (772 – 846)
 
 
The fresh rice wine is fragrant, bubbling green,
A fire beneath my small red pot of clay.
Now night has come, the sky is filled with snow—
So, would you have a cup with me and stay?
 
 

My Husband’s Eyes

 
Quan Deyu (759 – 818)
 
 
Last night I left my skirt and belt undone,
This morning now a lucky spider flies;
I start to gather scents and makeup quick
For soon I think I’ll see my husband’s eyes.