Song of a Southern Country
- Poetry of Wang Anshi

《南乡子·自古帝王州》

English Rendering

The capital was ruled by Kings since days gone by.

There rich green and lush gloom breathe a majestic sigh.

Like dreams has passed the reign of four hundred long years,Which calls forth tears:

Modern laureates are buried like their ancient peers.


Along the river I go where I will,Up city-walls and watch-towers I gaze my fill.

Do not ask what has passed without leaving a trail!

To what avail?

The endless river rolls in vain beyond the rail.

Song of a Southern Country by Wang Anshi
Song of a Southern Country by Wang Anshi

Original Text (中文原文)

自古帝王州,郁郁葱葱佳气浮。

四百年来成一梦,堪愁,晋代衣冠成古丘。

绕水恣行游。上尽层楼更上楼。

往事悠悠君莫问,回头。

槛外长江空自流。

Analysis & Context

After the failure of his reforms,Wang An-shi resigned from the premiership and lived in seclusion at Jinling,ancient capital during nearly four hundred years(221-280;317-389;937-975).In this lyric he gives vent to his discontent about the actual state of things in the court.

Reader's Companion

The Essence of the Verse

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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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