XCIV

LEAVING THE MONASTERY EARLY IN THE MORNING

In bed, asleep, I dream

I am a butterfly.

A crowing cock wakes me

Like a blow. The sun rises

Between foggy mountains.

Mist hides the distant crags.

My long retreat is over.

My worries begin again.

Laughing monks are gathering

Branches of peach blossoms

For a farewell present.

But no stirrup cup will sustain

Me on my journey back

Into a world of troubles.

LU YU