Partridge Sky · Ode to Bamboo on the Xiang River Bank

Sweet osmanthus fades, cold ripples creep on stream;
Long winds sweep bank, leaves sway in gentle beam.
Its trunk may bend to bear the tempest’s might,
Deep roots coiled firm, it holds one inner light.

Virtue of hollow heart, away from noisy strife,
Cultivate quiet grace, no need for sighs of life.
Though storms from all four quarters rise and roll,
It keeps its noble aim, with unexhausted soul.

——Signed: Zhuzi
The 22nd day of the Mid-Autumn Month, Bingwu Year