The Yale Anthology of Twentieth-Century French Poetry

VICTOR SEGALEN

In Praise of Jade

For these reasons, wise men have esteemed it.

guì gù

zh ̄ ıj ̄ un

yˇezˇ ı

If the Sage, making light of alabaster, venerates the pure and unctuous Jade, it is
not because alabaster is common and the other rare: Rather, know that Jade is
good

Because it is smooth to the touch—but unyielding. And prudent: its veins are
fine, compact, and solid.

And just, since it has angles but does not cut. And full of urbanity when, hung
from a belt, it bends low and touches earth.

And musical, raising its voice, sustained until the sudden fall. And sincere, for its
luster is not veiled by its faults nor its faults by its luster.

As virtue, in the Sage, needs no fine ornament, Jade alone can decently present
itself alone.

To praise it is thus to praise virtue itself.

—timothy billings and christopher bush

Faithful Betrayal

In search of a friendly echo.

qíu

yˇou

sh ̄eng

You write: ‘‘I am here, faithful to the echo of your voice: silent, unexpressed.’’ I
know your soul tuned just to accord with the singing silks of my lute:

It’s only for you that I play.