In wide lake green,
I steep my knee.
On happy scene,
I gaze with glee.
As people say,
Content brings ease.
With wine I stay,
Drunk as I please.
Original Poem
「时运 · 其二」
陶渊明
洋洋平泽，乃漱乃濯。
邈邈遐景，载欣载瞩。
人亦有言，称心易足。
挥兹一觞，陶然自乐。
Interpretation
"Spring Excursion II" by Tao Yuanming, a recluse poet of the Eastern Jin Dynasty, exemplifies his simple lifestyle and natural, refreshing poetic style. Known for expressing his love for a leisurely life through pastoral imagery, this poem, composed during his retreat to the countryside, uses delicate depictions of nature to convey a harmony between the poet's inner peace and his external environment. It reflects Tao's serene acceptance of fate and his contentment with the beauty of the natural world.
First Couplet: "洋洋平泽，乃漱乃濯。"
Yáng yáng píng zé, nǎi shù nǎi zhuó.
The vast, tranquil lake stretches before me; its clear waters wash over me, cleansing the dust.
These lines depict a serene and refreshing natural scene. Standing by the lake, the poet feels the flowing water cleanse not only his body but also his spirit. The verbs "wash" (漱) and "cleanse" (濯) symbolize his desire for inner purification and tranquility, reflecting his pursuit of peace and simplicity.
Second Couplet: "邈邈遐景，载欣载瞩。"
Miǎo miǎo xiá jǐng, zài xīn zài zhǔ.
The distant scenery stretches endlessly, filling me with joy and wonder.
Here, the poet gazes at the expansive, distant landscape, captivated by its grandeur and beauty. The words "joy" (欣) and "gaze" (瞩) express his deep appreciation for nature's splendor and his focused, serene state of mind, highlighting his inner calm and contentment.
Third Couplet: "人亦有言，称心易足。"
Rén yì yǒu yán, chēng xīn yì zú.
As the saying goes, contentment brings happiness; a satisfied heart is enough.
This line introduces a timeless wisdom: "contentment brings happiness." It emphasizes that true fulfillment comes from within, rather than from external achievements or material pursuits. Through this, Tao conveys a philosophy of simplicity and inner peace, reminding himself and others that tranquility and satisfaction are paramount, regardless of external circumstances.
Fourth Couplet: "挥兹一觞，陶然自乐。"
Huī zī yī shāng, táo rán zì lè.
I raise a cup of wine, delighting in this moment of pure joy.
In these final lines, Tao expresses his complete satisfaction with his current life. Raising his cup, he immerses himself in the joy of the present, symbolizing his inner peace and fulfillment. This act of drinking and reveling in happiness underscores his ability to find contentment in simplicity and solitude.
Overall Appreciation
"Timely Fortune (Second of Four)" uses vivid natural imagery to reflect Tao Yuanming's detachment from worldly concerns and his pursuit of inner harmony. The poem's language is concise and fresh, imbued with a pastoral charm. Through the depiction of the tranquil lake and distant scenery, Tao conveys a philosophy of contentment and freedom, celebrating a life of simplicity and self-sufficiency. The poem radiates a sense of joy and fulfillment, embodying Tao's ideal of living in harmony with nature and oneself.
Writing Characteristics
- Nature as a Mirror of the Soul
Tao's pastoral style uses natural scenes to reflect his inner emotions and ideals. The tranquil lake and distant landscape symbolize his serene and contented state of mind. - Philosophical Depth
The poem incorporates timeless wisdom, such as "contentment brings happiness," blending natural imagery with philosophical reflection to advocate for a life of simplicity and inner peace. - Simplicity and Clarity
The language is straightforward yet evocative, capturing the essence of Tao's philosophy without unnecessary embellishment. This simplicity enhances the poem's authenticity and emotional resonance. - Harmony Between Inner and Outer Worlds
Tao seamlessly connects his inner tranquility with the external beauty of nature, illustrating his belief in living in harmony with the natural world and one's own heart.
Insights
"Timely Fortune (Second of Four)" reminds us of the importance of inner peace and contentment in a world often dominated by external pressures and desires. Tao Yuanming's celebration of a simple, self-sufficient life encourages us to find joy in the present moment and to cultivate a sense of fulfillment from within. By embracing the beauty of nature and the wisdom of contentment, we can navigate life's challenges with grace and tranquility, achieving a state of true happiness and harmony.
Poem translator
Xu Yuan-chong (许渊冲)
About the poet
Tao Yuanming(陶渊明), 365–427 CE, was a poet, literary figure, fu writer, and essayist active during the late Eastern Jin and early Liu Song dynasties. Born in Chaisang (near present-day Jiujiang, Jiangxi Province), he pioneered a new genre of pastoral-themed literature, expressing profound philosophical insights through simple language. His poetic style became an enduring aesthetic standard in classical Chinese poetry.
