Sun in the East 東方之日

ZY THE WAY’s “Sun in the East 東方之日” illuminates their distinctive blend of ancient Chinese poetry and contemporary jazz, creating a fresh and vibrant soundscape. Originating from Taipei, Taiwan, the band has been captivating audiences since 2019 with their innovative approach, merging timeless verses from the Classic of Poetry (Shijing 詩經) with the dynamic rhythms and harmonies of modern jazz. By reimagining these 3000-year-old texts, ZY THE WAY breathes new life into the cultural heritage of the Chinese diaspora, offering a unique musical experience that bridges the ancient and the contemporary.

“Sun in the East 東方之日” is the third single from their eagerly awaited debut album "Then And Now 溯", scheduled for release on November 8th, 2024. Following their acclaimed singles “Ten Acres” and “Blue Collar 子衿,” this track illuminates an ancient love poem that depicts an unusual daytime rendezvous between lovers. Scholars have long debated why this tryst occurs under the sun, breaking the norm of nocturnal meetings. One compelling interpretation suggests that the sun and moon serve as metaphors for the lover’s beauty and radiance, rather than merely indicating the time of day.

In “Sun in the East 東方之日,” ZY THE WAY masterfully captures the enigmatic charm of the poem, immersing listeners in a timeless narrative of love and longing. The song's intricate jazz arrangements and poignant lyrics underscore the emotional depth and historical resonance of this ancient tale, showcasing ZY THE WAY’s distinctive ability to bridge the past and present through their music.

Sun In the East 東方之日 Lyrics:

[VERSE 1]

東方之日兮，
Dōngfāng zhī rì xī,
東方之日兮，彼姝者子，
Dōngfāng zhī rì xī, bǐ shū zhě zi,
在我室兮。
zài wǒ shì xī.

在我室兮，
Zài wǒ shì xī,
履我即兮。
lǚ wǒ jí xī.

[VERSE 2]

東方之月兮，彼姝者子，
Dōngfāng zhī yuè xī, bǐ shū zhě zi,
在我闥兮。
zài wǒ tà xī.

在我闥兮，
Zài wǒ tà xī,
履我發兮。
lǚ wǒ fā xī.

[CHORUS]

東方之日兮，
Dōngfāng zhī rì xī,
東方之日兮.
Dōngfāng zhī rì xī.

SOLOS

[CHORUS]

東方之日兮，
Dōngfāng zhī rì xī,
東方之日兮.
Dōngfāng zhī rì xī.

Lyrics are based on the poem 'Ten Acres of Leisure 十畝之間’ from ‘Book of Poetry (Shijing 詩經)’ as compiled by Confucius 3000-years-ago

English Translation:

Sun in the East,
This lovely girl is in my chamber,
In my chamber.
Quietly she comes to me.

Moon in the East,
This lovely girl is behind my doors
Behind my doors.
Quietly she leaves.

Translation by Dr Annie Luman Ren from the Australian Centre on China in the World.