Early in the morning, climbing San Guan Mountain, this path is too tough! Early in the morning, climbing San Guan Mountain, this path is too tough! Even the oxen are worn out and lying down, and the car even fell into a ditch. I sit on a rock, playing the five-stringed instrument, using the melodious tune to express my inner frustration. Singing to express my feelings, early in the morning climbing San Guan Mountain! (First paragraph)
Hey, how did three old men suddenly appear beside me? Hey, how did three old men suddenly appear beside me? They were wearing thick fur coats and didn't look like ordinary people. They asked me what was wrong, saying they complained because of hardship, hesitating about where to go, so they came here. Singing to express my feelings, what's with these three old men? (Second paragraph)
I live on Kunlun Mountain, and people say I am an immortal. I live on Kunlun Mountain, and people say I am an immortal. Cultivation can truly lead to something. I have traveled to famous mountains and rivers, and have been to the ends of the earth. Lying on a rock, rinsing my face, drinking mountain spring water. I pondered, hesitated, and finally ascended to immortality. Singing to express my feelings, I live on Kunlun Mountain! (Third paragraph)
The past cannot be brought back; the longings of the past are unbearable. The past cannot be brought back; the longings of the past are unbearable. I can't sleep at night; my heart is heavy with melancholy and self-pity. My actions are honest and upright; I don’t engage in hypocrisy. My essays also reflect the actual situation, in line with the records of classics and scriptures, as well as the traditions passed down from the Western Regions. Singing to express my feelings, the past cannot be brought back! (Fourth paragraph)
Original text: In the morning, climbing San Guan Mountain, how difficult is this road. Why are there three old men, suddenly by my side? I live on Kunlun Mountain, known as an immortal, gone and cannot be pursued, long-term attachment.
Walking north to Taihang Mountain, this road is a real challenge! Taihang Mountain, this road is a real challenge! The mountain road twists and turns like intestines; the car's about to fall apart! (Fifth paragraph)
The trees are all bare, the north wind is howling, it's truly desolate! Bears and bears crouch in front of me, tigers and leopards roar along the path. (Paragraph 6)
The mountain valley is sparsely populated, snowflakes are falling. I stretch my neck and sigh, feeling burdened by the long journey. (Paragraph 7)
I am deeply troubled; I really want to hurry home! The river is deep, the bridge is broken, I can only wander aimlessly. (Paragraph 8)
Lost, it's dark, nowhere to stay. Walking further, both I and my horse are hungry.
Carrying a load to gather firewood, using an axe to break ice for porridge. Recalling the poem "Dongshan," my heart is truly desolate.
I want to climb Mount Tai, journey with immortals. I want to go to Kunlun Mountain, then to Penglai Fairy Island, travel all over, and play with immortals. I hope to obtain immortal medicine and live forever. This song expresses my wish; I want to climb Mount Tai!
The heavens and earth are so enduring, yet human life is so short. People say Boyangzi lived a long life, yet no one truly knows his age; Chisongzi and Wang Qiao also said they became immortals. I haven't heard of these; I just hope for a long life. This song expresses my thoughts; the heavens and earth are so enduring!
The brilliance of the sun and moon shines on the earth; where can it not reach? Yin and yang harmonize, the world is peaceful, the only dignitary is the emperor, and all nations are the emperor's subjects. Held in esteem for benevolence, honored with rituals and music. This song expresses my thoughts; the brilliance of the sun and moon shines on the earth!
The four seasons constantly change, day and night make up a year. Adults align with the natural order, and heaven will not go against them. No need to grieve for the passage of time; what troubles people is the mismanagement of the realm. Life and death are predetermined; worrying is in vain. This song expresses my thoughts; the four seasons constantly change!
Sigh, what am I even thinking? Happiness is what matters most. Youthful and strong, with exceptional wisdom, such times will not come again. Cherish the moment and work hard—who am I really helping? What's the point of just indulging myself? This song expresses my thoughts; sigh, what am I thinking after all?
I am going to visit Mr. Dong Tao. "Dong Tao's Journey"
I want to visit Mr. Dong Tao up in the mountains; the road is steep and difficult. From afar, the peak of the Five Sacred Mountains looms, and the palace is magnificent and brilliantly adorned. All I see are falling leaves.
Birds gather like clouds. Mountain creatures roam, with qilins and pixiu guiding the way. Pheasants call, while mountain beasts playfully chase each other.
Xiao Fu, a minor official, steps forward into the imperial palace, feeling uneasy, unsure of why the emperor had summoned him. Outside the palace gate, he asks the guard, "What does the emperor want from me?" He wants to seek the emperor's guidance, hoping to save his own life.
The emperor orders officials to follow his advice, picking branches and leaves of the divine herb, ruo mu. White rabbits pound the herbs into pills, presenting them to the emperor on jade plates. Once the emperor takes the pills, he will live forever.
After he takes the divine pills, everyone is overjoyed. The emperor will have a long life, and all the officials bow in congratulations, praying for the emperor's longevity, wishing him to live as long as the heavens and the earth.
This is "On the Pond" by Pu Sheng, said to be a poem written by Emperor Wu and consisting of five parts.
Reeds grow in my pond, their leaves are so lush! They stand tall, oblivious to their own excellence. Gossip can tarnish gold, leading to our separation.
When I think of you leaving, I feel so alone and filled with sorrow. Just thinking of your face breaks my heart and makes it hard to sleep at night.
Do not abandon those you love because of the nobles; do not forsake scallions and garlic for the sake of precious fish and meat; do not forsake rushes and wild ginger for the cheapness of hemp and ramie.
Those who repay kindness with ingratitude are like a capsized boat, destined to sink. I urge you to find peace and not to fret. Consider when we might be able to sit together again, face to face.
Worried when I go out, worried when I’m at home. The wind at the border is desolate, and the trees are bare. Today we are happy together; I wish you longevity and may you live for a thousand years.
This is 'Ku Han Xing,' written by You You and attributed to the Ming Emperor; it consists of five stanzas.
Leisurely leaving Luoyang, I embarked on the journey to the east. After more than twenty days of travel, I set up camp at Longbei City.
I looked back at the camp built by my ancestors. The houses remain unchanged, and the roofs stand straight.
However, my ancestors kept their achievements and virtues hidden. Though they have passed, their merits will endure forever, and their names will be forever remembered.
Oh, my imperial ancestor, how brilliant and glorious you were; your achievements and glory live on! Your grace spreads across the world, bringing peace to the four seas and eight corners of the earth.
Alas, while there were rebellions in the states of Wu and Shu, and wars during the Spring and Autumn Period, all of these cannot compare to the sorrow I feel for my ancestors' inability to live long! I write poetry to express my longing; as I write, tears flow, soaking my clothes.
Everyone enjoys themselves during the day, drinking to their heart's content until they’re all drunk. The mournful strings play a new tune, while the melodious flute produces a clear melody.
This music is really moving, and the guests are happily chatting about it. In the spacious and bright hall, a cool breeze gently blows into my room. (From "Shan Zai Xing" by Emperor Wen, Second Explanation)
The wine glass is full but feels as if it's not; only those who truly have something to show for it can stick it out. Gentlemen are always anxious, worrying about more than one thing. (From "Shan Zai Xing" by Emperor Wen, Third Explanation)
I humbly reside in a modest thatched cottage, warmly conversing with guests, never relaxing for a moment. The guests return home after eating and drinking their fill, while I am exhausted. (From "Shan Zai Xing" by Emperor Wen, Fourth Explanation)
The winged birds soar together in the sky; where are those bound people? Maintaining peace of mind can bring natural joy; what does fame and fortune matter? (From "Shan Zai Xing" by Emperor Wen, Fifth Explanation)
Climbing the mountain to forage for herbs, hungry and tired at dusk. The wind is strong in the valley, and the frost wets my clothes. (From "Shan Zai Xing" by Emperor Wen, Sixth Explanation, First Explanation)
Wild chickens in the mountains call out in groups, and monkeys chase and play with each other. I look back at my hometown, overwhelmed with nostalgia. (From "Shan Zai Xing" by Emperor Wen, Sixth Explanation, Second Explanation)
The high mountains have steep cliffs, and the trees in the forest are lush. Sorrow hits, and there's nowhere to run; no one can understand my anguish. (From "Shan Zai Xing" by Emperor Wen, Sixth Explanation, Third Explanation)
Life is as fleeting as a guest stay; why have so many worries? I am not happy now, but time flies by quickly. (From "Shan Zai Xing" by Emperor Wen, Sixth Explanation, Fourth Explanation)
The rushing river carries boats along, drifting with the waves, like a wandering traveler. (From "Shan Zai Xing" by Emperor Wen, Sixth Explanation, Fifth Explanation)
I ride my good horse, draped in a light fur cloak. Driving the carriage around, I temporarily forget my worries. (From "Shan Zai Xing" by Emperor Wen, Sixth Explanation, Sixth Explanation)
In the early morning, I went to the high terrace to enjoy the view, and in the evening, I set up a banquet by the Hua Pond. The tribal leader presented fine wine, and the hunters offered tasty game meat. (From "Shan Zai Xing" by Emperor Wen, Five Interpretations, One Interpretation)
The dancers from the State of Qi performed a traditional Eastern dance, while the musicians from the State of Qin performed Western tunes. A guest from the South played a beautiful melody on the zither for me. (From "Shan Zai Xing" by Emperor Wen, Five Interpretations, Two Interpretations)
The sounds of various instruments blended together, and the performers played passionately. Fish in the water joyfully leaped with the rising and falling waves. (From "Shan Zai Xing" by Emperor Wen, Five Interpretations, Three Interpretations)
Birds danced and flew in the sky, and sorrowful cries echoed through the northern woods. After the joy, a sense of sadness overwhelmed me, filling my heart with sorrow. (From "Shan Zai Xing" by Emperor Wen, Five Interpretations, Four Interpretations)
This poem tells stories of historical figures and the author's reflections.
The first line states: "The clear horn is truly marvelous, but if one lacks virtue, they cannot bear heavy responsibilities." It then continues: "Great are Zi Ye's words; restrain the strings and reflect upon oneself." This means that Zi Ye's words are indeed profound, and one should put away their instruments and introspect. The poem mentions many historical figures, such as Gu Gong Dan Fu, who accumulated virtues and ultimately achieved the legacy of a wise king; the brothers Tai Bo and Zhong Yong, who sacrificed their hair and bodies for the sake of virtue; Bo Yi and Shu Qi, who preferred death to consuming grain from the Zhou and died of starvation on Shou Shan; the sage Shan Fu, who assisted King Xuan but regretted his improper use of talents; Duke Huan of Qi, who ruled but caused the state's decline by favoring the unscrupulous; Yan Zi, who accumulated virtues but could not ensure recognition; and Confucius, who in troubled times could only navigate the feudal lords' politics and do his utmost.
In the second paragraph, the poem turns to describe the author's own situation. "I lament my frail body; I have suffered loneliness and hardship since childhood." Alas, I lament my unfortunate fate, being poor and suffering greatly from a young age. "I have not received a proper education, nor have I heard my parents' advice." I have not received a good education, nor have I heard my parents' teachings. "In my poverty, I can only rely on myself." My life is impoverished, and I can only find ways to support myself. "Although I harbor lofty ambitions, what can I achieve under such circumstances?" Although I hold noble ambitions, what can I achieve in the current environment? "Those who endure poverty are to be pitied; their tears flow like rain." Those who are destitute can only sigh and shed tears. "I weep in sorrow, unable to see any hope of survival." I am overwhelmed with grief, unable to see any hope of survival.
In the third paragraph, the poem expresses the author's wishes and helplessness. "I wish the heavens would show me mercy, as Langya Mountain leans to the left." I hope that heaven will have mercy on me, just as Langya Mountain leans, offering me some help. "Though I long to be loyal, I can only watch as others return to Chu." Although I wish to be loyal to my country, in the end, I can only watch as others (Xin Gong) return to the state of Chu. "Righteous people sigh for my plight, yet my aspirations remain unfulfilled." Honest people will sigh at my situation, but my ambitions cannot be fulfilled. "Heaven teaches people to act virtuously, but who truly understands my struggles?" Heaven teaches people to be virtuous, but who truly understands my suffering? "When will I be able to escape this situation? Alas, this sigh is hard to bear." When will I be able to break free from this situation? Alas, this sigh cannot be resolved. "How can I attain glory now? My grievances fall like raindrops, too difficult to articulate." I now want to know how I can achieve honor; my grievances fall like raindrops, too difficult to express.
In the last paragraph, the poem describes the author's journey. "I set out on my expedition to subdue the barbarians." I am going to march out and subdue the barbarians. "The troops are organized and ready to set off." The army is organized and prepared to depart. "The light boat glides down the river, like the first geese settling by the shore." The light boat sails on the river, soaring like wild geese. "Vigorous and fierce, like bears and tigers." The soldiers are fierce and valiant, like bears and tigers. "The cannon fire roared like thunder, and the soldiers surged with momentum." The sound of cannons is deafening, and the soldiers are full of momentum. "The banners are waving, advancing and retreating in an orderly manner." The flags are waving, advancing and retreating in an orderly fashion. "Hundreds of horses in formation, led by skilled charioteers." Hundreds of chariots advance together, driven by skilled charioteers. "The six armies stand united, all well-versed in combat." The six armies are united and skilled in warfare. "Though the journey is long and arduous, we press on day and night, overcoming obstacles along the way." Although the journey is long and arduous, we travel day and night, facing obstacles ahead. "Traveling far day by day, leaving the capital of Xijing behind." We continue to travel further away from the capital as we advance. Not long after, we arrived in Yangzhou. The rebel army was terrified; none dared to resist. The tiger generals were all furious, and the area of Huai River and Si River returned to peace. This campaign relied on both luck and reputation, successfully quelling the rebellion while also soothing the populace. Returning triumphantly, reporting to the emperor. "Good deeds" (Ming Emperor's Song) The Wei army is mighty, marching out to suppress the rebellion, braving the scorching heat, displaying great deterrence. We sailed downstream, the Yellow River flowing noisily. Opening up canals, the roads were long and far-reaching. The flags blotted out the sky, as numerous as clouds. The fish in the river frolicked in groups in the deep water.
Just docked by the river, drifting with the current. Not alone, holding onto the land of Yangzhou. With a heavy heart, I sing "Caiwei." Worried about the land of Huai and Fei. I hope you return victorious soon!
"Good Deeds" (Ancient Poem)
Tomorrow will bring great troubles, and I feel parched now. Let's enjoy ourselves today and spend the day happily.
I went to famous mountains and rivers, saw the Lingzhi mushrooms swaying in the breeze. The immortal Wang Qiao gave me a magical herb.
I feel inadequate in knowledge and skills, my hands and feet are cold. I feel ashamed that I cannot repay King Zhao Xuan like Ling Zhe could.
The moon has set, and the Big Dipper hangs low, the North Star is sparse. My friends are outside, and though I'm hungry, I can't think of eating.
Happy days are too few, sad days are too many. How can I ease my worries? Let's play some music, drink, and sing!
The Eight Lords of Huainan have clear paths ahead. Riding in a six-dragon chariot, frolicking among the clouds.
"East Gate" (Ancient Poem)
Out of the East Gate, I don't want to go home; but once I'm inside, I feel like crying. The rice jar at home is empty, and there are no clothes hanging from the beams.
Drawing a sword to go out, children cry and pull at my clothes. While others aspire to wealth and glory, I'm content with sharing simple meals with you.
Sharing simple meals, working for the country above, and caring for the children below. Now that the court is honest, we dare not break the laws; you should also take care of yourself, and don’t do bad things.
Alright, I need to go now. Be careful on the road, and I hope to return soon!
"Folding Willow Walk" (Emperor Wen's Poem)
West Mountain, it's incredibly high, almost beyond measure! Two children who look like immortals live on the mountaintop; they don’t eat or drink at all. They gave me a pill, glistening and colorful! After taking this pill for four or five days, I actually grew wings on my body! I flew effortlessly to the clouds, in the blink of an eye, I flew who knows how far. As I flew, I saw the vast, boundless world; I couldn't even recognize the direction. Pengzu lived to be seven hundred years old; that's just ridiculous—who knows if it's true? Laozi went to the west and hasn't come back yet. The tales of Wang Qiao and Chisongzi seem like nonsense. Only those who really understand can tell what's true and what's not; only fools like to believe in rumors. Thinking about the chaos of the past, it's so chaotic, I can't even keep track. There are so many odd sayings; I still believe in the wisdom of the sages. Next is the poem "The Song of Luo Fu": The sun rises in the southeast, shining on my Qin family's home. In my family, there is a beautiful girl named Luo Fu. Luo Fu likes to raise silkworms and plant mulberry trees; she gathers mulberries from the southern part of town. She uses green silk to make the mulberry basket's rope and uses cassia twigs to make the hook of the mulberry basket. She combs her hair in a Wo Duoji, with bright moon pearl earrings. She wears a yellow silk skirt and a purple silk top. When people pass by Luo Fu, they set down their burdens and stroked their beards as they stared. Young men who see Luo Fu take off their hats and fix their headscarves. Those who were plowing forget to plow, and those who were weeding forget to weed. When they snap back to reality, they start blaming one another, just focusing on looking at Luo Fu.
The county magistrate came from the south, and the carriage, drawn by five horses, moved slowly. The magistrate sent someone to ask, "Who is this beautiful woman?" "I have a lovely daughter named Luo Fu." "How old is Luo Fu?" "She's just over fifteen." The magistrate wanted to invite Luo Fu to ride with him, but Luo Fu said, "Magistrate, you really are quite foolish! You have a wife, and I have a husband!"
Thousands of cavalry appeared from the east, and Luo Fu's husband was at the front of the troops. How did they recognize Luo Fu's husband? He rode a white horse, followed by a bay horse. His horse's tail was tied with blue silk, and its head was adorned with a golden harness. He wore a deer-horn sword at his waist, worth a fortune. At fifteen, he served as a minor official in the county government; at twenty, he was a court official; at thirty, he was an attendant; and at forty, he became a local magistrate. He was strikingly handsome, with a well-groomed beard. He walked lightly in the government office, moving with grace. Thousands of people in the government office all agreed that Luo Fu's husband was truly remarkable!
Lastly, here’s the poem "Walking Out of the West Gate":
After walking out of the west gate, I walked and thought, "If I don't have some fun today, when will I ever be happy?"
Friends, be happy! Make sure to enjoy the good times, don't always frown, and make the most of your time to enjoy yourself! In this life, there aren't that many worries. Grab some good wine and enjoy some delicious food, call a few close friends, and your troubles will fade away.
No one can say how long they will live, but they always wish they could live to be a thousand. The day is short and the night is long; instead of moping, why not light a candle and take a stroll, enjoying the moment? Who can predict how long they will live, just like the immortal Prince Qiao?
People are not like gold or stone; their lifespans are impossible to predict. Those who are greedy and stingy will ultimately be the subject of ridicule. (In "Zhe Yang Liu Xing," after the lines "Bing Zhu You," there are additional lines: "Xing Qu Zhi, Ru Yun Chu, Bi Che Lei Ma Wei Zi Tui," but it doesn't include the lines "Zi Fei Xian Ren Wang Zi Qiao.")
Quietly breaking the rules will inevitably lead to punishment. Long Feng was killed, and Jie Wang was killed in Mingtiao; these serve as cautionary tales. Zui's advice went unheeded, while King Zhou of Shang raised a white flag. Hu Hai lost his life for calling a deer a horse. Fu Chai apologized to Wu Zixu before his death, and Rong Wang indulged in women and lost his life. The calamity involving Bi and Ma affected Guo State, leaving both countries in ruins. Three bandits scared off a tiger; a kind mother lost her shuttle, and everyone came to help look for it. Bian He had his feet cut off for presenting jade and ultimately could only return to the countryside.
The peach trees in this garden bloom but bear no fruit; they are merely for show. Han Xin, the Marquis of Huaiyin, was killed; only Zhang Liang managed to preserve his reputation while others fell. He was angry but restrained himself, avoiding luxurious attire; speaking less and doing more will lead to success. Su Qin's persuasion of the six states ultimately led to their downfall. He changed his allegiance, betrayed his master, and was ultimately torn apart by a chariot. Chen Zhen was wise, loyal, and strategic, yet King Huai of Chu ignored his counsel, resulting in disaster. Wu Qi, lacking both intelligence and wisdom, aspired to great deeds but ultimately perished in the Battle of Xihe, leaving the fields strewn with corpses. Guo Jie was a noble gentleman of ancient times, while King Zhao of Yan surrounded himself with wise ministers like Yue Yi. Meng Changjun was a high-ranking official of Qi State who declined a gift of a thousand gold pieces and returned after crossing the vast sea.
Two white swans flew in from the northwest. Fifteen, fifteen, lined up in a row. This refers to my wife passing away, unable to walk the road with me. Every five miles I walk, I glance back; every six miles, I pause. I want to carry you away, but I can't open my mouth; I want to fly away with you on my back, but my feathers are all weak. How happy I am to have made new friends! But just the thought of parting with you fills me with sadness. I hesitate, look at my companions, and tears flow unconsciously.
Thinking of parting with you, my heart feels choked, and I can't say a word. Take care of yourselves, everyone; the road is long, and it's too difficult to meet again. I will keep watch over this empty room, shut the door, and lock it. If we are fortunate enough to meet again in life, we can also reunite in the afterlife. Today we are happily together, hoping we can all live a long life!
I wander among the clouds and walk in the rain, cross the banks of the Jiujang River, and gaze at the different scenery. Thinking of traveling around, but not sure where to go next. Arriving at Jieshi Mountain, my heart is filled with melancholy for the East China Sea.
I come to Jieshi Mountain, overlooking the boundless sea. The sea is so clear, and the mountains tower high. Trees are dense, and various wild grasses are lush. The autumn wind rustles, and giant waves roll. The sun and moon move, as if rising from the sea; the stars are brilliant, as if surging from the sea. How fortunate I am! I write this song to express my thoughts.
In the tenth month of winter, the north wind blows. The weather is cold and clear, everywhere covered in thick frost. The cuckoo calls early in the morning, wild geese fly south, birds of prey lurk, and bears hide in caves. Farmers have finished their work, crops fill the fields. The inn is ready for merchants to come and go. How fortunate I am! I write this song to express my thoughts.
The scenery of my hometown is different, and the He Shu region is especially cold. Ice floats, making it hard for boats to navigate. The ground is too hard for a drill to penetrate, and the ice layer is both thick and hard. The river water dries up and stops flowing, and the ice surface is solid enough to walk on. The hermits are very poor, while the brave and noble are often overlooked. I often find myself sighing and complaining, my heart filled with sadness. What luck I have! I write this song to express my aspirations.
Although tortoises have long lifespans, they eventually die; even the soaring dragon eventually turns to dust. A good horse, even in its old age, still dreams of galloping a thousand miles while resting in the stable; a spirited warrior in old age still retains his ambition. The length of life is not entirely predetermined by fate; taking care of body and mind can lead to longevity. What luck I have! I want to use my singing to express my ambitions.
What is the song "Yan Ge He Chang Xing" about? The first interpretation is: how can I be happy and carefree? Just drink wine and eat delicious beef. The second interpretation is: the eldest brother is a high-ranking official, the second brother wears a fur coat. The third interpretation is: even though the younger brother has no official title, he rides a horse and travels between the mansions of nobles. The fourth interpretation is: just indulge in games and chess in the nobles' palaces. The fifth interpretation is: as men in this world, we must strive; as days go by, life is short.
When we were young, we fought each other and endured hardships together; what good does anger do? You and I will eventually part ways. I am determined to serve the king, and cannot neglect etiquette. I feel guilty to heaven, and to the young children. Alas, why do I still feel so anxious and restless in my old age? I alone feel this sadness; who else can understand?
"What does the song 'The Yellow Sparrow in the Wild' convey? The first interpretation is: a feast is held in a grand palace, with relatives and friends all in attendance. The kitchen is bustling with sumptuous dishes being prepared, including roasted lamb and beef. The zither in Qin land sounds so passionate, while the se in Qi land is harmonious and gentle. The second interpretation is: Yang A's dance is so unique, and the songs of Jingluo are renowned. Drinking more than three cups, loosening the belt, eating abundant dishes, the host wishes me longevity like the southern mountains, and the guests wish me longevity without bounds. The third interpretation is: long-held wishes cannot be forgotten; the most disgraceful thing is to be ungrateful. What more could a humble gentleman desire? Good times will not come again; a hundred years pass in the blink of an eye. The fourth interpretation is: the strong wind blows away the white clouds; time swiftly flows westward. While alive, one resides in splendid houses, but after death, one returns to the wilderness. Who among the ancients did not die? Knowing this truth, what is there to worry about?
What is 'The Song of Fullness' about? Not long after the happy days, I soon faced the harsh realities and challenges of life, enduring various separations; oppressed and harmed by petty people, my sorrow is overwhelming. Looking up at the North Star, the sky brightens, and the moon changes position. Sorrow surges in my heart; who can truly understand my feelings?
Alas, worried and troubled, with heavy thoughts, my heart is never at peace. Fortune and misfortune are unpredictable; I can only reflect on the ancients who resigned from their posts to live in seclusion and cultivate the land. This way, I can achieve my wishes and find inner peace. I long to live in seclusion in the mountains, cherishing this peaceful and contented life."
Autumn has arrived, and the cold wind is howling. I look westward, thinking of crossing the vast sea, but my heart remains restless. I put on my coat, rise to my feet, and gaze up at the night sky; the stars of the Big Dipper twinkle in their scattered formation. The brilliance of the Milky Way shines on me, and I will travel far, seeking nothing else. Serving my elderly parents is a heavy responsibility that is hard to articulate.
Whether in poverty or wealth, it’s all fate; wise people do not worry about these things. Worry less, enjoy more; that’s the way to live. I find contentment in simplicity, sticking to the right path and learning from the life attitude of Zhuangzi. Those who live anonymously are even more admirable; Zilu and Boyi both encountered setbacks. These two ancient sages will forever have their names passed down to future generations.
What’s the point of drinking, singing, and dancing if you’re not happy? Look at the sun, moon, and stars; they never stop moving day and night. Why be so attached to gain and loss in life? Greed and stinginess, how foolish! Life is as fleeting as striking a spark for fire; how long can we really live in this world? We should embrace life, relish happiness, uphold integrity, and cultivate virtue; only then can one live to a hundred years and beyond.
Stepping out from the Xia Gate and climbing Shouyang Mountain, ah, it reminds me of Yi Shu, whom Confucius praised as a wise man. A true gentleman is humble and accommodating, while a petty person is always striving to outdo others; only these two are still praised today. Lin Fang received rewards but changed his principles; times change, the sun and moon pass by—who can last forever? It’s wonderful to play music again and revel in the joy it brings.
The autumn wind blows in the evening, and I mourn the fate of the autumn cicadas, their colors shifting as they drift with the wind. I turn back to the west, continuous clouds and mist; red clouds cover the sun, and a rainbow spans the sky. The weak water flows slowly, leaves fall one by one; lonely birds, having lost their companions, cry out in sorrow. It’s bittersweet to hear this mournful cry once more.
In the morning, I visited the clear and tranquil waters, only reluctantly returning home in the evening. As the sky darkened, the crows flew south. I circled the trees three times but couldn't find a suitable place to rest. In the end, I encountered wind and rain; the trees were uprooted and branches snapped. The male bird flew away in fear, while the female bird, left alone, didn’t know where to go. At night, having lost its companion, it lingered in sorrow. Thorns grew thick everywhere, and vines sprawled densely. I thought of those who have been battered by the elements and felt sorry for them. The moon waxes and wanes, and flowers bloom and wither; this is an age-old truth that encapsulates the helplessness of life.
This poem expresses a sense of desolation and helplessness, just like the vicissitudes of life, full of variables and uncertainties. Next is a poem about emperors. The first one is "Ode to Rowing": The emperor implemented benevolent governance, in accordance with the will of Heaven, following the laws of nature. When the sun shines, darkness is driven away; as time passes, all things change. His enlightened rule brought stability to society, while military achievements were not abused, like the ancient Emperor Shun, using virtue to win people over, making the Miao clan submit.
The rebels of Wu and Shu, relying on mountains and rivers, occupied strategic locations. The common people had nowhere to turn, only able to look up to the court. The emperor felt heartbroken by this, immediately became angry, departed from Xuchang Palace, and led the army to the battlefield by boat. The next day, the fleet braved the wind and waves, singing hauntingly mournful songs aboard. The generals waved flags, preparing for battle. They were about to raise banners and weapons, showcasing their might on the battlefield, to punish the rebels, pacify the people, and stabilize the southeastern border.
The second poem is "The Governor of Yanmen," narrating the tale of Wang Jun, the magistrate of Luoyang County: During the reign of Emperor Xiaohedi, Wang Jun, originally from Yizhou Guanghan, began his official career at a young age and was well-versed in the Five Classics, with profound knowledge.
He is familiar with legal texts and comes from a family of officials for generations. After being appointed as the magistrate of Luoyang County, he was known for his wise governance, treating the people like his own children.
He enforces the law firmly, but is kind and generous internally. He is well-versed in both civil and military affairs, empathetic towards the people, understands the struggles of the rich and poor, and even goes so far as to change the names of wrongdoers, recording their misdeeds.
For murderers, he punishes them according to the law. He bans the use of eight-foot spears, harshly punishes reckless youths, imposes physical punishment, and then sends them to the horse market for their punishment.
He never imposes taxes without reason, always seeks justice for the people, orders officials to enforce the law fairly, and forbids them from being harsh or unreasonable towards the people. He even bought a rope and a pole for execution, spending only thirty coins.
Ah, what a wise ruler he is! Our lord of the county! His subordinates serve the emperor with great respect. The clerks and record keepers are all competent individuals.
These two poems, one depicting the cruelty of nature and the helplessness of life, and the other praising a clean and honest county magistrate serving the people, create a stark contrast and reflect differing values in life.
During my time in the department, I never dared to abuse my power, served with integrity, worked hard day and night, achieved remarkable results, becoming well-known far and wide.
Unfortunately, my life was cut short, and I died young. To commemorate me, people built a shrine for me west of Anyang Pavilion, hoping that future generations will remember my name.
The melody of this "White Head Poem" is the same as that of the "Rowing Song."
The weather is clear like the clouds on the mountain, and the moon is bright like the moon in the clouds. I heard you have a fickle heart, so I came to end things with you.
When was the last time we had a good drink together in the city? Today we drink together, and tomorrow we will go our separate ways. I linger by the royal ditch, where the water flows in both directions.
There’s a woodcutter in the east and another in the west. The two woodcutters insist on giving way to each other; without any family relationship, who would bother to curry favor with them?
With a heart full of sorrow, there are no tears shed during weddings; only hoping to find someone wholehearted, to grow old together. (Explanation 4)
How slender are the bamboo poles, how agile are the fish tails; if men truly wish to understand one another, what use are money and swords? Teeth like five horses munching on straw, hermits by the riverside joyfully playing. Today, let us be happy together, wishing for longevity. (Explanation 5)
(The book says: There is also the phrase "紫罗咄咄奈何" in this poem.)
(This poem was written by Dong'e Wang, Explanation 7)
The bright moon shines on the lofty building, moonlight pouring down, lingering. Upstairs, there is a sorrowful woman, sighing sadly, evoking sympathy. (Explanation 1)
May I ask, who is sighing? She claims to be the wife of a guest. Her husband has been away for over ten years, and I, this humble wife, have been alone all this time. (Explanation 2)
I miss you as fiercely as thirst, miss you painfully like hunger. You stand tall like a cypress on a high mountain, while I feel as lowly as murky water. (Explanation 3)
The north wind howls, blowing fiercely into my ears. Thinking of an old friend, tears stream down uncontrollably. (Explanation 4)
Our paths in life diverge; will we ever meet again? I hope to turn into the northeast wind and blow you into my arms. (Explanation 5)
Your heart is always difficult to reach; what should I, this humble wife, do? Let our bond sever midway, let it scatter with the wind. (Explanation 6)
I want to end this song; it's too sad, too long. Let's cherish our happiness today, and after we part, may we never forget one another! (Explanation 7)
