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Liu Yu-hsi (772–842) was born in the Grand Canal town of Hsuchou to a family of Confucian scholars. Although he held several important posts, such as advisor to the heir apparent and vice-minister in the Ministry of Rites, he was twice demoted because of poems he wrote satirizing those in power. The autumn wind reminds Liu of the end of the summer of his life and of the loss of imperial favor. Like the geese, he is headed south, away from the capital from which he has been banished. But unlike the geese, he is traveling alone. The courtyard is that of a travelers’ inn.

Ode to the Autumn Wind

LIU YU-HSI

Where does the autumn wind come from

rising it sees off the geese

entering courtyard trees at dawn

it wakes a lone traveler first