A Spring Walk by Qiantang Lake
North of Gushan Temple and west of Jia’s Pavilion,
The water has just risen level, with clouds hanging low.
Early orioles vie for sunny trees in several places;
Newly returned swallows gather spring mud for nests.
A growing profusion of flowers almost dazzles the eyes;
Fresh grass is only just deep enough to cover a horse’s hooves.
I love the eastern shore so much I cannot walk it enough—
The White Sand Causeway beneath green willow shade.
Notes
Qiantang Lake is an older name for West Lake in Hangzhou. Gushan Temple and Jia’s Pavilion mark places on the walk. Early orioles seek sunny trees, and returning swallows collect mud. Mò means to cover; “cannot walk enough” expresses the speaker’s delight.
Meaning
By West Lake, the speaker observes rising spring water, orioles and swallows, flowers and fresh grass. The favorite part of the walk is the White Sand Causeway under green willows.
Appreciation
The poem follows a walk beside West Lake and gathers the signs of early spring.
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Temple and pavilion orient the reader; rising water and low clouds establish the lakeside setting.
Orioles, swallows, flowers and grass come into view. Words such as early, new and just emphasize a season beginning.
The final causeway is a place the speaker cannot enjoy enough. Find the birds, flowers, grass and trees together.
About the poet
Bai Juyi (772–846), courtesy name Letian, was a Tang poet and official born near present-day Xinzheng, Henan.
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His works include Song of the Pipa Player, Song of Everlasting Sorrow and many poems about daily life.