A Seven-Character Regulated Verse to Report All Is Well

2008/6/3 10:03:09

Went out to play for a few days, having so much fun I almost forgot to come back. Time to check in after this week-long vacation—here's a regulated verse to send along:

Song of Befuddlement

Chán Zhōng Shuō Chán

In this turbid world, no heart to debate saint from commoner,

This battered frame idly clasps the wine cup in its teeth.

Walking alone, why fear the scorching tongues of men?

Ten thousand deaths—what ghost would covet that?

The sky is vast—treading clouds, driving sun-horses,

The wind is high—hoisting dreams, racing star-sails.

The wheel of time rolls on, mountains and rivers are fragile,

One taste of sour, sweet, bitter, spicy, and salty.