少年听雨歌楼上，
红烛昏罗帐。
壮年听雨客舟中，
江阔云低，断雁叫西风。

When I was young I’d listen to the falling rain
at a singing house I often went
Candles shimmering red
dimming the curtains around silky bed

At middle age I’d listen to the falling rain
in a boat, usually, on my endless journey
The river so wide, the clouds so low
lone wild geese wailing, as the west winds blow

而今听雨僧庐下，
鬓已星星也。
悲欢离合总无情，
一任阶前点滴到天明。
Now, I’m listening to the falling rain
under the roof of a secluded cottage
My hair sparse and temples gray
Sorrow, joy, farewells and reunions
So relentless, I’ve had them all.
Let it be, as the raindrops fall
trickle, dribble, over the steps, till dawn.