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Chao Ku (815–856) was from Huai-an in Kiangsu province, which was once part of the ancient state of Ch’u. Although he wrote this while serving as commandant of Weinan just east of Ch’ang-an, his sentiments must have changed, as this was where he later retired. During the Western Chin dynasty (265–316) Chang Han was serving one autumn in Loyang, when he thought about sea perch stew on the Grand Canal. He became so homesick he quit his post and went home. Chao recalls Chang’s example but is unable to emulate it and likens himself, instead, to Chung Yi. Chung was the prime minister of Ch’u, captured during a war with the state of Cheng and given to the state of Chin. When the Duke of Chin saw him, the duke asked, “Who is this in chains wearing a strange hat?” An attendant answered, “A prisoner from Ch’u” (Tsochuan: King Ch’eng, Ninth Year).

Autumn Longing in Ch’ang-an

CHAO KU

Desolate cloud shapes brush past the dawn

the full force of autumn descends on the palace

a few fading stars and migrating geese

leaning from a tower I hear a flute

chrysanthemums are silently starting to turn purple

without their pink robes lotuses look sad

sea perch are in season but I can’t go home

a prisoner from Ch’u I wear a strange hat