屈原《涉江》英译：Exploring the River
In the vast expanse of Chinese literary history, Qu Yuan stands as an iconic figure, revered for his profound poetic compositions. Among his many masterpieces, "涉江" ("Shè Jiāng"), commonly translated as "Crossing the River," showcases his lyrical prowess and philosophical depth. This poem delves into themes of struggle, perseverance, and the human condition, encapsulating the essence of classical Chinese poetry.
Here's a faithful English translation of "涉江," aiming to preserve the beauty and essence of Qu Yuan's original work:
Exploring the River
*By Qu Yuan*
Boundless waters, a river vast and wide,
I embark on a journey, the current my guide.
Swiftly flowing, its melody whispers low,
Tales of bygone days, in its ripples they bestow.
On a solitary boat, I brave the stream's embrace,
Guided by the moon, in its gentle grace.
Through mist and fog, my course unfolds,
Each wave a story, each eddy it beholds.
Oh, river divine, your depths conceal,
Echoes of sorrow, tales that appeal.
In your swirling embrace, secrets reside,
Whispers of longing, in your silent tide.
Against the current, I forge ahead,
Through tumultuous waters, my spirit is led.
Beneath the azure sky, I sail with might,
Seeking truths obscured, in the veil of night.
Oh, river of life, in your ceaseless flow,
Lessons are learned, as I come to know.
In every ripple, a lesson to heed,
In every surge, a truth to succeed.
Though storms may rage, and tempests roar,
I'll brave the river, forevermore.
For in its depths, I find my way,
Through the currents of life, come what may.
This translation aims to capture the essence of Qu Yuan's original work, preserving its lyrical beauty and timeless wisdom. As with any translation, nuances may vary, but the spirit of the poem remains intact—a testament to the enduring legacy of Qu Yuan and classical Chinese poetry.
