Drunk and Free, Sword in Hand

I turn carefree words into a song for you; though strands of sorrow still cling, my resolve remains.

I offer this song in search of a kindred spirit. Please lend me your ear and listen.

Do not say these rough words are not worth polishing. The road ahead is long, and they need to be honed.

When I finally achieve the Great Way, I, Shu, will offer my thanks to you all!

Carefree Words: A preface to Drunk on the Carefree Way of the Sword

Flute, bamboo pipe, wine, and a song of flowing sorrow,

Who could share them with me?

I would ask until every vicissitude was laid bare,

But dawn breaks, and the rooster crows first.

Alas, though life is bitter, we must still press on,

And seek peace of mind by making our resolve clear.

Let the threads of sorrow hang as they may;

The sun sets late, and I comb my hair alone.