Li Ch'ing Chao

Most literary scholars in China would say that Li Ch'ing Chao was the greatest woman poet of China (1084-1151).  I was reading her poetry while sitting in a doctor's waiting room and her words "sang to me":

"I thank these poem making companions" (from "Endless Union"). It reminded me of my friends at Poem Train and wanted to share her words with you. If you'd like to read more, go to this website ... read the "Tzu" poems (lyrics). I am sure a lot is lost in the translation to English, but it is still wonderful IMHO.
A sampling follows the URL

http://www.poemhunter.com/li-ch-ing-chao/poet-6817/


Tz'u No. 13 (Age)

To the tune of "Song of Peace" 

Year by year, in the snow,
I have often gathered plum flowers,
intoxicated with their beauty.
Fondling them impudently
I got my robe wet with their lucid tears.

This year I have drifted to the corner
of the sea and the edge
of the horizon,
My temples have turned grey.

Judging by the gust of the evening wind,
It is unlikely I will again
enjoy the plum blossoms.
 



Norm