Prevod

Liu An, King of Huainan, was devoted to the arts of the Dao. He kept cooks and stewards ready to receive guests. One morning in the first lunar month, eight old men came to his gate and asked for an audience. The gatekeeper reported their arrival to the king, who told him to devise an objection and put them to the test. “Our king seeks everlasting life,” the gatekeeper said. “Since you gentlemen have no art to keep old age at bay, I dare not announce you.” Knowing they would not be admitted, the old men transformed themselves into eight youths, their complexions like peach blossoms. The king at once received them, honoring the Eight Elders with splendid ceremonies, music, and a feast. Taking up his qin and plucking its strings, he sang: “Radiant Heaven above, you shine upon the Four Seas! Knowing my love of the Dao, these elders have descended to me! These elders shall grant me feathers and wings! I shall soar into azure clouds and tread the heights of Liangfu! I shall behold the sun, moon, and stars, and meet the Northern Dipper! I shall ride the winds and clouds, with jade maidens at my command!” This is the piece now known as the “Huainan Melody.”