English中文
Breaking the Enemy Ranks: Spring Scene
燕子来时新社，
梨花落后清明。
池上碧苔三四点，
叶底黄鹂一两声。
日长飞絮轻。
When the swallows come, it is the spring She festival; after the pear blossoms fall, Clear-and-Bright. Upon the pool, three or four patches of green moss; among the leaves, an oriole or two. The days grow long, the flying catkins light.
巧笑东邻女伴，
采桑径里逢迎。
疑怪昨宵春梦好，
元是今朝斗草赢。
笑从双脸生。
The bright smiles of the neighbor girl to the east, met upon the path where mulberry is gathered — No wonder last night's spring dream was so happy: she has won this morning's game of grasses. Laughter rises upon both her cheeks.
Reading notes
新社 refers to the spring She festival. 斗草 is a traditional contest involving plants; the girl’s delight after winning brings the spring scene to life.