English Rendering
How can a deep love seem deep love,
How can it smile, at a farewell feast?
Even the candle, feeling our sadness,
Weeps, as we do, all night long.
Parting II
- Poetry of Du Mu
《赠别·其二》
Original Text (中文原文)
多情却似总无情，唯觉樽前笑不成。
蜡烛有心还惜别，替人垂泪到天明。
Analysis & Context
Seven-character-quatrain
Although it can’t be confirmed, instead of parting with a friend, Du Mu is parting with a now ex-lover. Saying that even though their love was deep it diminished into nothing, they can’t even fake a friendly smile so the candle weeps for them. This powerful poem expresses the pain in ending a special connection with someone you loved.
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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