The pavilion hovers over liquid geometry,
Its lattice trembles with reflected quantum.
Jade-bamboo spears through the grove's democracy,
Twin rainbows bridge the flat bridge's phantom.
Fish auction beauty for algae-coins below,
Clear water exposes cold sand's cashflow.
Don't ask how lotus curves unfold—
Just follow scent-trails through liquid gold.
临池飞构郁岧巉，櫺槛无风影自摇。
群玉过林抽翠竹，双虹垂岸跨平桥。
烦依美藻鱼争饵，清见寒沙水满桡。
莫问荷花开几曲，但知行处异香飘。
Composed during Zeng Gong's service as a local official, this poem reflects the scholar's deep appreciation for natural landscapes during a visit to the Pavilion of Water Fragrance (水香亭). While Zeng's poetry never prioritizes ornate diction, it excels in capturing profound beauty within tranquil scenes, using nature as both aesthetic object and philosophical medium. This work exemplifies his ability to transform simple observations into meditations on serene living.
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.
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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