The Lord of the East
Qu Yuan
Fusang and the dragon chariot
The light rises, but the heart looks back.
Dawn, horses, thunder and cloud banners prepare ascent, while a long sigh introduces lingering affection.
暾将出兮东方，照吾槛兮扶桑。
The sun is about to rise in the east, lighting my railing and the Fusang tree.
抚余马兮安驱，夜皎皎兮既明。
I stroke my horses and drive them gently; the night has grown clear and bright.
驾龙輈兮乘雷，载云旗兮委蛇。
The dragon chariot rides with thunder, carrying cloud banners that wind and unfurl.
长太息兮将上，心低徊兮顾怀。
I sigh deeply as I prepare to rise; my heart lingers, looking back with affection.
The coming ascent and the backward gaze coexist, giving the sun spirit's brightness a feeling of departure.