艰哉何巍巍。
羊肠坂诘屈，
The upward trek is harsh when we march forth. The rough meandering footpaths twist and turn;
车轮为之摧。
树木何萧瑟，
The wheel breakdowns bring us grave concern. Before my eyes, the towering trees are moaning;
北风声正悲。
熊黑对我蹲，
Above my head, the northern wind is groaning. Bears large and small squat upon the trail;
虎豹夹路啼。
溪谷少人民，
Meanwhile tigers and leopards howl and wail. Few people go into the deepest vales
雪落何霏霏。
延颈长叹息，
When heavy snows enshroud the frozen dales. At this sight, I heave an enormous sigh
远行多所怀。
我心何悌郁？
Now that I know what zigzag treks imply. Why am I in such a downcast mood?
思欲一东归。
水深桥梁绝，
About my journey home is what I brood. When we face a river and no bridge is found,
中路正徘徊。
迷惑失故路，
We have to stop halfway and move around. As we have moved around and lost our way,
薄暮无宿栖。
行行日已远，
Night will fall and we have nowhere to stay. The farther in the mountains we go,
人马同时饥。
担囊行取薪，
The more hungry men and horses grow. The soldiers cut firewood from the trees