念子不能归。
俯仰内伤心,
Sweet, sweet smells the autumn orchid bloom. The sweetish flavour of the pretty night
泪下不可挥。
愿为双黄鹂,
Spreads into my chamber with delight. I shall soon set out on my homeward way,
送子俱远飞。
烛烛晨明月,
With eager thoughts for home far, far away. In December when winter is ahead,
馥馥秋兰芳。
芬馨良夜发,
At dawn on heavy frost I’ll tread. I’ll see the southern rivers flowing by;
随风闻我堂。
征夫怀远路,
I’ll see the clouds drifting in the sky. Although we are indeed the best of friends,
游子恋故乡。
寒冬十二月,
We’ll stay away at two opposing ends. Separating us are hills and rills,
晨起践严霜。
俯观江汉流,
And far apart are we against our wills. Though it be hard for us to meet again,
仰视浮云翔。
良友远别离,
Let us enjoy ourselves together then. Guard it well, your virtue so sublime,
各在天一方。
And lavish care on yourself all the time.