Book X. The Odes Of T'ang. I. Hsi So

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"The Book of Poetry", tr. by James Legge, [1876],

Book X. The Odes Of T'Ang

I

The "Hsi So;" narrative. The cheerfulness and discretion of the people of Chin, and their tempered enjoyment at fitting seasons.

1The cricket appears in the hall,

And towards its close draws the year.

Then let us to-day to pleasure give way,

Ere the days and months disappear. p. 127

But duty should have our first thought;

Indulgence we strictly must bound.

Take heed lest the joy our reason destroy;--

The good man looks out and around.

2The cricket appears in the hall,

And the year is fast passing on.

Then let us to-day to pleasure give way,

Ere the days and months shall be gone.

But some things our care still demand;

Against all excess we must guard.

Take heed lest the joy our reason destroy:

The good man thinks no toil too hard.--

3The cricket appears in the hall;

The need for our carts is all o'er.

Then let us to-day to pleasure give way,

Ere the days and months be no more.

But first think of griefs that may come;

Between the extremes keep the mean.

Take heed lest the joy our reason destroy:--

The good man is calm and serene.