English Rendering
O'er water green the autumn moonshine s bright,
On Southern Lake they gather lilies white.
The lotus-blooms so lovely as to speak,
Outshine the bashful oars women's fair cheek.
Song of Green Water
- Poetry of Li Bai (Li Po)
《渌水曲》
Original Text (中文原文)
渌水明秋月，南湖采白蘋。
荷花娇欲语，愁杀荡舟人。
Analysis & Context
This poem depicts a bright and vibrant scene of gathering duckweed in autumn, showcasing the poet's love for natural beauty and his reflections on the fluctuations of life. With a fresh and unconventional touch, Li Bai portrays the autumn lakescape with the radiance of spring, captivating the reader. This lively and poetic imagery is a testament to the unique charm of Li Bai's poetry.
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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