四月清和雨乍晴
The fourth month is mild; rain has just cleared.
南山当户转分明
The southern mountain beyond the door grows distinct.
更无柳絮因风起
No more willow fluff rises on the wind;
惟有葵花向日倾
Only mallow flowers lean toward the sun.
What the poem means
After rain, the early-summer air clears and the mountain beyond the door becomes distinct. Willow fluff has gone, while flowering mallow turns toward the light. Do not automatically picture modern sunflowers for the ancient word kui.
Meet the poet
Sima Guang was a Song statesman and historian. This poem describes a clear view after rain.
Sima Guang · More poems →