《饮酒·其五》 - 陶渊明

This renowned poem by Tao Yuanming, titled "Drinking Wine" (饮酒·其五) or "Drinking Wine (Poem 5)," is a profound reflection on the poet's pursuit of inner peace and harmony with nature. Through its simple yet evocative language, the poem conveys the essence of living in accordance with one's values, finding contentment in solitude, and appreciating the beauty of the natural world.

《饮酒·其五》
作者：陶渊明

结庐在人境，而无车马喧。
问君何能尔？心远地自偏。
采菊东篱下，悠然见南山。
山气日夕佳，飞鸟相与还。
此中有真意，欲辨已忘言。

I've built my hut amidst the bustling world, Yet hear no din of carts and horses.

You ask how I achieve such peace? With a heart detached, the world seems distant.

I gather chrysanthemums by the eastern hedge, And leisurely gaze upon the southern hills.

The mountain air grows finer day by day, As birds return in pairs to their nests.

In this there lies a true meaning, But when I try to speak, words fail me.

The opening lines establish the poet's unique setting: "I've built my hut amidst the bustling world, / Yet hear no din of carts and horses." The juxtaposition of the "bustling world" and the poet's tranquil existence highlights his ability to find peace amidst chaos.

The following lines reveal the secret to his tranquility: "You ask how I achieve such peace? / With a heart detached, the world seems distant." The poet suggests that true peace comes from within, from cultivating a detached and non-reactive mind.

The next lines describe the poet's daily routine: "I gather chrysanthemums by the eastern hedge, / And leisurely gaze upon the southern hills." The imagery of gathering chrysanthemums and gazing at the hills conveys a sense of simplicity, contentment, and appreciation for the natural world.

The following lines emphasize the beauty of the natural surroundings: "The mountain air grows finer day by day, / As birds return in pairs to their nests." The poet's observation of the changing mountain air and the returning birds suggests a deep connection to nature and an appreciation for its cyclical rhythms.

The final lines capture the essence of the poem's message: "In this there lies a true meaning, / But when I try to speak, words fail me." The poet acknowledges the profound truth inherent in his simple life, yet recognizes the limitations of language to fully express its essence.

"Drinking Wine" (Poem 5) remains a timeless masterpiece of Chinese poetry, admired for its profound insights into the nature of peace, the importance of inner detachment, and the transformative power of connecting with the natural world.