Chinese Poetry Translation

2018

Angel Island Immigration Station
Tiburon, United States

Poem #45 "Composed by and old man from Taishan," found in the Detention Barracks, room 205 (Chinese Men's Dormitory, second floor). Poem 45 was translated in Island: Poetry and History of Chinese Immigrants on Angel Island, 1910-1940, 2nd edition, 2014.

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Details

Title: Chinese Poetry Translation
Date Created: 2018
Location Created: Angel Island, Tiburon, California, USA
Type: Photograph
Rights: Angel Island Immigration Station Foundation
Translation: Imprisoned in this wooden building, I am always sad and bored. I remember since I left my native village, it has been several full moons. The family at home is leaning on the door, urgently looking for letters. Whom can I count on to tell them I am well? Prisoners in this wooden building constantly suffer sadness and boredom. I remember the hardships I had to endure when I was coming here. I cannot prophesy which day I will cross the barrier. The years and months are easily spent in vain.
Photographer: R. Nauman

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