The Three Kingdoms' Opening Poem

Translated by Pat Wong

Rumbling rapids of the Yangtze river, disappearing to the East,
White water washed away all heroes.

Triumphs and failures left no trace as one looked back;
Yet the steadfast green mountains remained, 
Awash in how many red sunsets?



A lone white-haired fisherman, on the breakwater,
Accustomed to the autumn moon and the spring breeze.

Opened a bottle of mao-tai for a well-traveled friend;
Many historical events of now and then, 
All became the object of their mirth.