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Tsu Yung (699–746) was born in Loyang and served briefly in the government, but he retired at an early age to a hermitage south of Loyang. Here, he finds himself at the end of winter on an unwelcome mission to Changsha, the capital of Hunan. The Mountains of Ch’u extend from southern Hunan to northern Kiangsi and are named for the ancient state that once ruled this region. The sword represents Tsu’s accoutrement of office, while his letters, flying the opposite direction of migrating geese (which are themselves the mail carriers of the hopelessly separated), convey the interests of his heart. The Southern Dipper is only visible south of the Yangtze. Changsha was known for the oranges that grew on an island in the Hsiang River. They were a welcome present at New Year, as their color represented abundance and happiness.

Traveling South of the Yangtze

TSU YUNG

The Mountains of Ch’u never end

the only road home is bleak

rain appears from a clear blue sky

floodwaters roar all night

my sword remains by the Southern Dipper

my letters buffet the distant North Wind

I would send gifts of Changsha oranges

but who will take them to Loyang Bridge