English intent · Chinese classic
These matches come from a curated corpus of real Chinese poetry and philosophy. The source line is fixed; the English wording is provided to make its meaning accessible.
Best verified matches
When the great roc rises with the wind, it soars ninety thousand li.
Plain meaningA great ambition can rise with the right moment.
English wording on Gu Ren Said is an original reading aid, not a claim that there is only one valid literary translation.
How could sparrows and swallows know the ambition of a great swan?
Plain meaningPeople with small horizons may not understand a larger dream.
English wording on Gu Ren Said is an original reading aid, not a claim that there is only one valid literary translation.
An old warhorse rests by the manger, yet its ambition remains a thousand miles; a person of spirit in later years does not let bold purpose cease.
Plain meaningAge does not have to end ambition or purpose.
English wording on Gu Ren Said is an original reading aid, not a claim that there is only one valid literary translation.
In old age one should grow still stronger—how could a white-haired heart be changed? In hardship one should grow still firmer and never let high aspiration fall.
Plain meaningNeither age nor hardship should make you abandon a worthy ambition.
English wording on Gu Ren Said is an original reading aid, not a claim that there is only one valid literary translation.
A crane rises through the clouds in the clear sky, carrying poetic feeling into the blue heights.
Plain meaningAutumn can lift the spirit instead of making it fall.
English wording on Gu Ren Said is an original reading aid, not a claim that there is only one valid literary translation.
I will surely climb to the highest summit and see all the other mountains become small.
Plain meaningAim for the summit and gain the wider view that effort makes possible.
English wording on Gu Ren Said is an original reading aid, not a claim that there is only one valid literary translation.
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