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Reading the Classic of Mountains and Seas (1 of 13)
In early summer, grass and trees flourish,Lush branches encircle my thatched cottage.The flock of birds rejoices in their shelter,And I, too, cherish my humble dwelling. Having plowed and sown my fields,I now return in due season to read my books.My narrow lane is cut off from the deep ruts of the main road,Which keeps…
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Reading the Classic of Mountains and Seas (10 of 13)
Jingwei carries tiny twigs in her beak,Intending to fill the vast blue sea.Xingtian dances with his shield and battle-axe,His fierce resolve forever remains. Though mortal life is spent, no sorrow lingers;Transformed into strange beings, they harbor no regrets.The fierce ambitions of the past still burn within,But how could they ever wait for a time…
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精卫填海 (jīng wèi tián hǎi)
*Jīng wèi tián hǎi* originates from ancient Chinese mythology in *The Classic of Mountains and Seas*. Nüwa, daughter of Yan Emperor, drowned in the Eastern Sea and reincarnated as bird Jingwei, endlessly dropping twigs and stones to fill the sea. This idiom honors unbreakable will and persistent struggle against formidable difficulties.
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Lingering Clouds
Preface: Lingering Clouds is a poem about missing friends and kin. The wine vessel is filled with fresh brew, and the garden displays its first blossoms of spring. Yet, my wish to see them remains unfulfilled; sighs fill my breast. Gathering, gathering, the lingering clouds;Drizzling, drizzling, the timely rain.Darkness shrouds the eight directions;Even the…
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不求甚解 (bù qiú shèn jiě)
不求甚解 (Bù qiú shèn jiě) comes from Eastern‑Jin poet Tao Yuanming’s self‑portrait essay. It originally meant reading for main ideas instead of nit‑picking words. Gradually it turned negative, describing shallow learning without deep exploration. This idiom reflects traditional Chinese literary attitudes toward reading and intellectual pursuit.