古今越歌英译与评注
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The Yue’s Song

Anonymous

 

Oh, what a special night tonight,

Which witnesses this midstream float!

Oh, what a special date today,

When I’m grac’d to share with th’ prince th’ same boat!These lines, which consist of two exclamations, lively convey the Yue’s great delight in the event, which brings her and the prince together.

Shy as I am, I’d boldly admit my love,

And what if people should snort and sneer?

Oh, affections well up in my heart,

Affections which are keen and sincere!

Oh, trees cling to th’ mount, and branches embrace the tree;This line presents an analogic hint, foreshadowing the idea to be expressed in the next line. The tree and its branches symbolize the close interrelation of two young people in love.

I love Your Highness, but Your Highness o’erlook me!