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.
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People are not born knowing; who can be without questions?
Plain meaningNot knowing is normal—ask and learn.
English wording on Gu Ren Said is an original reading aid, not a claim that there is only one valid literary translation.
Do not expect to restore the ancient ways, and do not treat customary methods as permanently valid.
Plain meaningAdapt to reality instead of copying old solutions.
English wording on Gu Ren Said is an original reading aid, not a claim that there is only one valid literary translation.
Do not rejoice because of external things, nor grieve because of personal loss.
Plain meaningKeep your balance through success and setback.
English wording on Gu Ren Said is an original reading aid, not a claim that there is only one valid literary translation.
What you do not desire for yourself, do not impose upon others.
Plain meaningRespect other people by refusing to force on them what you would reject yourself.
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.
To believe books completely is worse than having no books.
Plain meaningRead seriously, but do not surrender your judgment to the page.
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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