Fan, Zhong-yan 1 (989 A.D.-1052 A.D.)
The sky is covered with clouds. The ground is covered with yellow leaves. The
autumn wind stirs layers of waves. The cold mist above the waves looks green.
The slanting sunshine illuminates the mountain and the water meets the sky. The
fragrant grass I am looking for is behind the mountain 2. My soul is
gloomy due to homesickness. I am sorrowful day and night unless I have a good
dream to keep me asleep. When I am alone, I should not lean against the window
of a tall tower under the bright moon 3. After the wine enters my
sorrowful bowels, it turns into tears of homesickness.
1
Xi-wen was Zhong-yan Fan's other first name. His ancestors were natives of
Bin City. Later, they moved to Wu County. He passed the Advanced Exam in 1015
A.D. At the peak of his career, he was the emperor's consultant and the
supervisor of the governor of Shaanxi Province. Later, he become the mayor of
Bin City, then Deng City, Jing-nan City, Hang City, and Qing City.
2
His job required him to travel. He always thought his next job would be
better than the past one.