Story Reader / Interlude / Night Mayfly

Hundreds of years passed in the flutter of a butterfly's wings, and I sigh when I look back at the past. Spring has just arrived today, yet the flowers will wither tomorrow. Drink before the night ends and the lights go out.

I used to drink wine and enjoy music for days and squander my money just for fun. It is after I bid farewell that I realize how much time I have wasted away.

The plum tree branches cross the moon, creating a special atmosphere. The plum blossoms shade the moonlight, leaving dot shadows in the glass. No matter how I lament the past, those days have long gone. It's hard to see my old friends again.

It was drizzling and windy last night. I slept in but still felt drunk. I ask the maid who is rolling up the shades, yet she tells me that the flowers are still in blossom. Don't you know that there should be more leaves than flowers?

I wish to bid farewell, but my words fail me. He departs from me into the flowers and grass. There I stand, waving goodbye to him. The cherry blossoms are still in bloom and the willow leaves are still abundant, yet the wind of spring is blowing in the cold rain.

The silk handkerchief is soaked by the sudden burst of tears. It's hard to resist the sadness of not being able to see him. My sleep is shallow, yet the screen stands tall in this silent long night.

We are separated by the Yangtze River. One stands on the north bank, and the other stands on the south bank. With whom should we drink wine and admire the moon tonight?