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America has power, but not justice. In prison,
we were victimized as if we were guilty. Given no opportunity to
explain, it was really brutal. I bow my head in reflection but there
is nothing I can do.
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There are tens of thousands of poems composed
on these walls. They are all cries of complaint and sadness. The
say I am rid of this prison and attain success, I must remember
that this chapter once existed. In my daily needs, I must be frugal.
Needless extravagance leads youth to ruin. All my compatriots should
please be mindful. Once you have some small grains, return home
early.
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For what reason must I sit in jail? It is only
because my country is weak and my family poor My parents wait at
the door but there is no news. My wife and child wrap themselves
in quilt, sighing with loneliness. Even if my petition is approved
and I can enter the country, when can I return to the Mountains
of Tang with a full load? From ancient times, those venture out
usually become worthless. How many people ever return from battles?
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Permission to display given by the University of Washington Press
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