Written on an Inn at Lin’an
Beyond the hills, more green hills; beyond the towers, more towers—
When will the singing and dancing by West Lake cease?
Warm breezes make the visitors so intoxicated
That they take Hangzhou for Bianzhou.
Notes
Lín’ān was the Southern Song capital at present-day Hangzhou; dǐ means an inn. West Lake is in Hangzhou. Biànzhōu refers to the former Northern Song capital at present-day Kaifeng. The warm breeze can also suggest an atmosphere of indulgence.
Meaning
Hills and towers surround West Lake, where the speaker questions the endless entertainment. The warm breeze seems to intoxicate visitors until they mistake Hangzhou for the former capital, Bianzhou.
Appreciation
This poem written at an inn questions the entertainment around West Lake and criticizes complacency in the Southern Song capital.
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The opening repeats hills and towers, building a rich scene before questioning the continuing songs and dances.
The warm breeze is weather and can also suggest an atmosphere of ease. The contrast between Hangzhou and the former capital gives the closing line historical force.
Find Hangzhou and Kaifeng on a map and discuss why a busy scene might evoke different feelings.
About the poet
Lin Sheng was a Southern Song poet. His dates and biographical details are uncertain, and accounts of his origins differ.
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Written on an Inn at Lin’an is associated with his name; the limited record leaves many biographical details uncertain.
Sources
Poem and reading reference: Shicile · Poet biography reference · poems-db
Translation and explanations by Poetry Buds; review ongoing.