English中文
By the Pond After Rain
一雨池塘水面平
After rain the pond is full and smooth;
淡磨明镜照檐楹
A softly polished mirror reflects the eaves and pillars.
东风忽起垂杨舞
Suddenly the east wind makes the willows dance,
更作荷心万点声
And countless drops patter on the lotus leaves.
Meaning
Rain leaves the pond smooth like a polished mirror, reflecting the eaves. A breeze moves the willows and sends drops onto lotus leaves. The still scene suddenly gains movement and sound.
About the poet
Liu Ban was a Song poet and historian who helped compile Zizhi Tongjian.