行人驻马莫惊嗟,处处溪流有落花。
不待今朝悲远嫁,长门风雨即天涯。
translated from Chinese into EnglishVerse 3 of “Ode to the Empress of Zhòng”
Passersby, halt and let’s not startle in alarmed voices; everywhere the streamlets see the falling blossoms.
Not waiting for the day to come to sorrow over far-flung marriages, the long house is already on the other side of the wind and rain.
Explanation of Poem:
- Passerby, halt and let’s not startle in alarmed voices;
- This line uses a metaphor to express the beauty of the scenery and its peaceful nature. The use of “halt” and “let’s not startle,” indicating the tranquility and harmony of nature, contrasts with the bustling scene outside. It also symbolizes the poet’s desire for peace.
- The repetition of “alarmed voices” emphasizes the calmness of the surroundings.
- Everywhere the streamlets see the falling blossoms.
- The phrase “everywhere the streamlets” represents the vast landscape, where even the small waterways are filled with falling petals. The “falling blossoms” symbolize the beauty and transience of life.
- The presence of these flowers in every corner suggests that beauty and sorrow coexist within this natural world.
- Not waiting for the day to come to sorrow over far-flung marriages, the long house is already on the other side of the wind and rain.
- This lines conveys the bitterness of life and death, as well as fate. The long house, often symbolizing a person’s home or dwelling place, represents their final resting place.
- The phrase “the long house is already on the other side of the wind and rain” reflects the harsh reality of life and death, and how quickly life can change.
Analysis of Images:
- Passerby, halt and let’s not startle in alarmed voices;
- This imagery creates a sense of serenity through the depiction of people and nature harmoniously coexisting. It reflects the poet’s deep connection with nature and his yearning for peace.
- The poet’s wish for peace is not only reflected in words but also in actions—not causing any disturbance or alarm.
- Everywhere the streamlets see the falling blossoms.
- This scene portrays the delicate beauty of nature and its fragility. The falling petals symbolize the transience of life and the impermanence of everything.
- It also reflects the poet’s sensitivity towards nature and his ability to capture its beauty.
- The long house is already on the other side of the wind and rain.
- This image conveys the bitterness of life, especially in terms of death and separation. It emphasizes that life is fleeting and that we should cherish our time while it lasts.
- It also serves as a reminder for us to live our lives fully and not take unnecessary risks.
Commentary:
The poem “Ode to the Empress of Zhòng” by Lu Yong is a classic work reflecting human emotions and the natural world. Through vivid imagery and profound meanings, it showcases the poet’s sensitivity to the beauty and fragility of nature, as well as his deep understanding of life and death. It is a testament to the power of art to move readers and to make them think deeply about life.