Let me then remember, to calm my heart's distress, That the Sages of old were often in like case. - Tao Yuanming

少无适俗韵，性本爱丘山。
误落尘网中，一去三十年。
羁鸟恋旧林，池鱼思故渊。
开荒南野际，守拙归田园。
方宅十余亩，草屋八九间。
榆柳荫后椋，桃李罗堂前。
暧暧远人村，依依墟里烟。
狗吠深巷中，鸡鸣桑树颠。
户庭无尘杂，虚室有余闲。
久在樊笼里，复得返自然。

I built my house near where others dwell, And yet there is no clamour of carriages and horses. You ask of me "How can this be so?" "When the heart is far the place of itself is distant." I pluck chrysanthemums under the eastern hedge, And gaze afar towards the southern mountains. The mountain air is fine at evening of the day And flying birds return together homewards. Within these things there is a hint of Truth, But when I start to tell it, I cannot find the words.

I do not mind if my cottage is rather small
So long as there's room enough for bed and mat.
Often and often the neighbours come to see me And with brave words discuss the things of old.
Rare writings we read together and praise:
Doubtful meanings we examine together and settle.