Su Shi's "In Response to Cao's Poem"

A Classical English Translation

Su Shi (蘇軾, 1037-1101)

Also known as Su Dongpo, was a towering figure of the Song Dynasty - a statesman, poet, painter, calligrapher, and gastronome. His works represent the pinnacle of Song Dynasty poetry, blending Confucian ethics, Daoist transcendence, and Buddhist insight with unparalleled literary craftsmanship.

About This Poem:

"In Response to Cao's Poem, Reusing Rhymes" was written in 1097 during Su Shi's exile to Hainan. This period produced his most philosophically profound works, reflecting on human folly and cosmic irony while maintaining resilient humor. The poem exemplifies the "ci" (詞) form with its intricate rhyme scheme and layered meanings.

In Response to Cao's Poem, Reusing Rhymes

by Su Shi (蘇軾)

1. The Absurd Cosmos

"Creation's but a child's game at best,
Wind's sigh, thunder's laugh—all jest.
Why fuss in vain, lose wits and cry,
As if the sky would heed our sigh?"

2. Society's Folly

"All flock to fish in rivers wide,
Each casting nets with foolish pride.
By chance one hooks six giant turtles,
And claims his skill surpasses mortals."

3. The Wise Man's Path

"While Lord Ren waits three years offshore,
Enduring want none would endure.
Death comes unforeseen, yet still,
He bears his fate with steadfast will."

4. Beyond Mere Calculation

"No divination straws can tell,
Save Buddha's eye that breaks the spell.
Who'll pass my learning on? Alas,
My sons are young—this too shall pass."

5. Defiant Hope

"Cao, my friend, we're old, dismissed,
The world wants us not to exist.
Though words now seem of little worth,
Time will prove their priceless birth."

6. Silent Resistance

"Your five-word verse, a golden trove,
I'll hide like treasure none can grope.
Lest shallow minds defile its art,
I lock it deep within my heart."

Translation Notes

Form: This translation preserves the original's "ci" (詞) structure with six stanzas matching the Chinese original's thematic progression. The ABAB rhyme scheme approximates the musicality of classical Chinese poetry while remaining natural in English.

Key Concepts:
- "Six giant turtles" translates "六鰲", mythical creatures representing rare success
- "Lord Ren" refers to the Daoist sage Ren Gongzi who fished with legendary patience
- "Buddha's eye" renders "佛眼", representing enlightened perspective beyond rational calculation

Historical Context: Written during Su Shi's final exile when he was 60 years old, the poem embodies his mature philosophy - acknowledging life's absurdity while affirming artistic integrity and the ultimate value of truth.