English Rendering
I leisurely pace around the pond, watching the fish swim,
Just then, I notice a child on a boat, toying with a hook and bait.
We are both fond of fish for different purposes,
Whereas I provide the food, he dangles his hook.
Observing the Swimming Fish
- Poetry of Bai Juyi
《观游鱼》
Original Text (中文原文)
绕池闲步看鱼游，正值儿童弄钓舟。
一种爱鱼心各异，我来施食尔垂钩。
Analysis & Context
Although Bai Juyi and the little boy both spend time around fish, the former observes the fish and gives them food to grow whereas the latter fishes for food. The tone of this piece can be interpreted in many ways; in my opinion, the poet expresses a feeling of helplessness.
Reader's Companion
The Essence of the Verse
Classical Chinese poetry thrives on Concision and Ambiguity. Without tense or number, the words create a timeless space where the reader becomes the co-creator of the poem's meaning.
Reading Between the Lines
Look for Contrasts: light and shadow, movement and stillness. Don't just translate the words; feel the Yijing (artistic conception) that lingers long after the last character.
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