On high as on earth, would it be as gay? She rounds the vermilion tower, Stoops to silk-pad doors, Shines on those who sleepless lie.
Why then when people part, is the oft full and bright? Why does she, bearing us no grudge, Shine upon our parting, reunion deny? There has been nothing perfect since the olden days.
So let us wish that man Will live long as he can! With cup in hand, I ask of the blue sky, "I do not know in the celestial sphere What name this festive night goes by? Dancing to my shadow, I feel no longer the mortal tie.
The moon goes round the mansions red Through gauze-draped window soft to shed Her light upon the sleepless bed..
I rise and dance, with my shadow I play.
Men have sorrow and joy; they part or meet again; The moon is bright or dim and she may wax or wane.
I only pray our life be long, And our souls together heavenward fly! But rare is perfect happiness-- The moon does wax, the moon does wane, And so men meet and say goodbye.
Wine cup in hand, I ask the sky.
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Description: Men have sorrow and joy; they part or meet again; The moon is bright or dim and she may wax or wane.