Sexual abuse in an ancient Chinese harem.
Ode number 46. Part I, book 4, chapter 2. [Legge's numbers]. The Ch'iang Yu T'zu; allusive. The things done in the harem of the palace of Wei were too shameful to be told.
1. As grows on wall the Tribulus, (ivy?)
And 'gainst the brush retains its hold;
So let what's in the harem done
By us without remain untold.
What must be told would tongue defile
With things unfit for speech, and vile.
2. As grows on wall the Tribulus,
Which vainly to remove we try;
So let what's in the harem done
By us without unspoken lie.
If on details we condescend,
The narrative would have no end.
3. As grows on wall the Tribulus,
And cannot in the sheaf be tied;
So let what's in the harem done
By us without untouched abide.
If truth were in the tale laid bare,
How fouled a scene were painted there!