In Praise of the Two Tutors Surnamed Shu

As the firmament turns, the seasons pass,

When its task is done, each takes its leave.

One might well ask, since the Chou declined

How many men have ever grasped this point?

Look there in the archives ofthe Iian

The two tutors Shu restored the practice.

With a high-pitched whistle they went back home,

Taking final leave ofthe prince they tutored.

The whole court came to see them on their way,

The road was blocked with coaches ofthe great.

It was this parting gave them cause for grief,

Not, surely, the honor they renounced.

The rare event affected passers-by

“True Sage is no everyday praise.

Content to enjoy village pleasures

With no pressing duties to tend to;

For feasts they would invite old friends

And with raised cups discuss the past.

They asked about the gold, and then explained,

Their pure words instructing the unenlightened

Devoted to pleasure for their remaining years

They had no time to think of cares after death.

And who will say these men are dead and gone?

With time their example shines the brighter.