My roots are of the utmost importance to me, 

For they hold the key to a genetic memory.

If a man knows not, from which spring he came;

How can he ever know which river to follow?

Land I've never seen you call to me in dreams, 

History unfolding through the years;

I've heard your laughter and I've seen your tears.

For decadence and vanity your dues are paid.

And centuries of pain, now I hope, makes you wiser again.

The Yellow River meanders through my veins, 

Watercolours on silk memories,

Stirring my heart with a yearning, to retrace, 

The sublime heritage of my forefathers.

Grapevine news I cannot refuse, coatings of a murmur echo over.

Sands on the seashore, a wave from the Huang He.

I was born outside but from my intestines I cannot hide.

Through the pages of books I look, mesmerised.

A culture such as yours is hard to behold.

Your roots run deep and long, your history goes on and on.

China, I hear you calling across a crimson ocean of my heredity

A transported soul in a Western world,

Learn from your past or hasten your doom,

I wish not to weep 'neath the pale yellow moon.

Reborn of the scales, your destiny is made.

There is much in your soul ready to explode

On the threshold of the Tao.

Heaven says your duty is to stand as Yin and Yang.

My heart belongs to you, civilization of wonder.

I long to touch your sweet earth.