History

Seen through a country, a family or an individual timeline,  
Diligence and thrift bear rise while extravagance decline.
Why do we cherish a pillow made of amber? 
Why must a cart be inlaid with pearls purer?
It’s hard to find talents when the country is at stake,
And to ward off devils when its foundations quake
How many people read the emperor’s aspirations?
Here I do lament over his unfulfilled ambitions.
(Tran.)

Copyright © | Year Posted 2019



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Book: Reflection on the Important Things

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