mandarin learning centre-Chinese Tang Dynasty-ORCHID AND ORANGE

Mandarin Lesson

ORCHID AND ORANGE

Zhang Jiuling

 

Tender orchid-leaves in spring

And cinnamon- blossoms bright in autumn

Are as self- contained as life is

Which conforms them to the seasons.

Yet why will you think that a forest-hermit

Allured by sweet winds and contented with beauty

Would no more ask to-be transplanted

THan Would any other natural flower?

張九齡
蘭葉春葳蕤, 桂華秋皎潔。
欣欣此生意, 自爾為佳節。
誰知林棲者, 聞風坐相悅。
草木有本心, 何求美人折。