When in parting we embrace
I cannot refrain from tears;
Even yonder branch will shudder
When its song-bird disappears.
When my life begins to fade,
Do not ask the reason why;
Even well-waters turn cloudy
When a stone drops from on high.
Know you why my yearning song
Still is lingering on my breath?
E’en a nightingale sings freely
Just before it meets its death.