Fragrant of Its Own Accord in an Empty Valley

[Intro]

[Verse 1]

The valley leaves the worldly dust outside the door

I use vines to mend the rain-leaking eaves

The gleam of pearls is exchanged for a meal in my hands

Bamboo shadows stood beside me through the cold evening

[Pre-Chorus]

The names of old were gently erased

Yet I still have a clarity of my own

[Chorus]

I need no one’s gaze to bloom

Nor lose its radiance because someone turns away

When splendor dwindles to a thin garment

This heart still holds an answer that refuses to bow

I need no one’s gaze to bloom

May I write my own tomorrow

[Instrumental Interlude]

[Verse 2]

The mountain spring still mirrors my weary face

I gather wind and frost into my silent brow

No longer measuring by other people's laughter

Those years of being cherished and being let down

[Pre-Chorus]

The names of old were gently erased

Yet I still have a clarity of my own

[Chorus]

I need no one’s gaze to bloom

Nor lose its radiance because someone turns away

When splendor dwindles to a thin garment

This heart still holds an answer that refuses to bow

I need no one’s gaze to bloom

May I write my own tomorrow

[Bridge]

Fragility too can be held close with care

Being independent doesn't mean no longer needing a pair of caring hands

If someone is willing to draw close as an equal

I am still willing to believe spring lives beyond the past

[Final Chorus]

I need no one’s gaze to bloom

Nor lose its radiance because someone turns away

When splendor dwindles to a thin garment

This heart still holds an answer that refuses to bow

I need no one’s gaze to bloom

May I write my own tomorrow

[Outro]

Bamboo leaves catch the evening's chill for me

I keep my clarity as I follow my own direction