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Hung Tzu-k’uei (1176–1235) was a native of the Hangchou area. In addition to serving as vice-minister of justice, he also served as a scholar in the Hanlin Academy, which was also known as Jade Hall. The Academy was in charge of drafting edicts for the emperor’s approval, in this case, the edict appointing the chief ministers empowered to oversee government affairs. On such an occasion, members of the Hanlin Academy would have stayed up all night in order to have the appointments ready for the emperor’s vermilion seal at the predawn audience. The poet pauses to savor the hour before the sun rises, as the moon sets on the purple myrtle lining the steps and courtyard outside the Academy.

Written While Serving at Jade Hall

HUNG TZU-K’UEI

The forbidden gates are locked and silent

thick ink soaks ministerial appointments

the crier announces the last watch before dawn

moonlight floods the myrtle-lined steps