I. Ko Chü
Book IX. The Odes of Wei
I
The Ko Chü; narrative. The extreme parsimoniousness even of wealthy men in Wei.
1Thin cloth of dolichos supplies the shoes,
In which some have to brave the frost and cold.
A bride, when poor, her tender hands must use,
Her dress to make, and the sharp needle hold.
This man is wealthy, yet he makes his bride
Collars and waistbands for his robes provide.
In which some have to brave the frost and cold.
A bride, when poor, her tender hands must use,
Her dress to make, and the sharp needle hold.
This man is wealthy, yet he makes his bride
Collars and waistbands for his robes provide.
2Conscious of wealth, he moves with easy mien;
Politely on the left he takes his place;
The ivory pin is at his girdle seen;
His dress and gait show gentlemanly grace.
Why do we brand him in our satire here?
’Tis this,—his niggard soul provokes the sneer.