Translation and Annotation of "Ridgepole Terrace" from Tang Dynasty Classical Prose

"Ridgepole Terrace" (《项脊轩志》) is a representative work of Tang Dynasty classical prose, written by Bai Juyi. The essay describes the author's life in a -all cottage, named "Ridgepole Terrace", located on a hillside. Through vivid descriptions of the scenery, daily life, and interactions with visitors, Bai Juyi expresses his pursuit of a simple and peaceful life.

Translation

I. Introduction

Ridgepole Terrace is a -all cottage located on a hillside. It is my humble abode, where I live a simple and peaceful life. The cottage is surrounded by mountains and rivers, and the scenery is breathtakingly beautiful. Every day, I wake up to the sound of birds singing and the gentle breeze blowing. I spend my days reading, writing, and enjoying the company of my friends.

II. Scenery

The scenery around Ridgepole Terrace is magnificent. To the east, there is a vast expanse of water, where the river flows into the sea. To the west, there are towering mountains, where the clouds and mist gather. To the south, there are rolling hills and lush forests, where the birds and animals roam. To the north, there is a vast plain, where the crops grow and the people work. The scenery changes with the seasons, and each season has its own beauty.

III. Daily Life

My daily life at Ridgepole Terrace is simple and quiet. I wake up early in the morning and do some exercises to keep myself healthy. Then I spend some time reading and writing. In the afternoon, I take a walk in the mountains or by the river. In the evening, I enjoy a cup of tea and chat with my friends. Sometimes, we play chess or listen to music. Life is simple, but it is also fulfilling.

IV. Visitors

Visitors often come to Ridgepole Terrace to enjoy the scenery and the company of friends. Some come to seek my advice on poetry or literature. Others come to discuss politics or philosophy. We h-e lively debates and discussions, and we learn from each other. Visitors also bring gifts of food and wine, which we share and enjoy together.

Annotation

I. Introduction

Bai Juyi begins his essay by introducing Ridgepole Terrace as his humble abode. The name "Ridgepole Terrace" refers to the ridgepole of the cottage, which is the highest point of the roof. The cottage is located on a hillside, which provides a beautiful view of the surrounding scenery. Bai Juyi emphasizes the simplicity and peacefulness of his life at Ridgepole Terrace.

II. Scenery

Bai Juyi describes the scenery around Ridgepole Terrace in detail. He uses vivid language to create a picture of the natural beauty that surrounds his cottage. The east, west, south, and north represent the four directions, and Bai Juyi describes the different landscapes that can be seen in each direction. He also notes that the scenery changes with the seasons, which emphasizes the importance of nature in his life.

III. Daily Life

Bai Juyi's daily life at Ridgepole Terrace is characterized by simplicity and routine. He wakes up early, exercises, and spends time reading and writing. These activities reflect his love of literature and his dedication to self-improvement. In the afternoon, he takes a walk in the mountains or by the river, which allows him to appreciate the beauty of nature. In the evening, he enjoys the company of his friends, which emphasizes the importance of social connections in his life.

IV. Visitors

Visitors play an important role in Bai Juyi's life at Ridgepole Terrace. They come to enjoy the scenery and the company of friends, but they also bring different perspectives and ideas. Bai Juyi values these interactions, as they provide opportunities for learning and growth. The gifts of food and wine that visitors bring also emphasize the importance of hospitality and generosity in Chinese culture.

Conclusion

"Ridgepole Terrace" is a beautiful and meaningful essay that reflects the values and ideals of Tang Dynasty classical prose. Through his vivid descriptions of the scenery, daily life, and interactions with visitors, Bai Juyi expresses his pursuit of a simple and peaceful life. The essay also highlights the importance of nature, literature, social connections, and hospitality in Chinese culture.