玉楼春

Spring in Jade Pavilion

宋祁

By Song Qi

东城渐觉风光好，

The Scenery is getting fine east of the town;

縠皱波纹迎客棹。

The rippling water greets boats rowing up and down.

绿杨烟外晓寒轻，

Beyond green willows morning chill is growing mild;

红杏枝头春意闹。

On pink apricot branches spring is running wild.

浮生长恨欢娱少，

In our floating life scarce are pleasures we seek after.

肯爱千金轻一笑。

How can we value gold above a hearty laughter?

为君持酒劝斜阳，

I raise wine cup to ask the slanting sun to stay

且向花间留晚照。

And leave among the flowers its departing ray.