Since childhood, I have been carrying scriptures to hoe the fields. Originally, I lived with my older brother to cultivate and study. Reading without seeking fame and fortune has led to criticism and ridicule from family and friends around me, as well as estrangement from my own wife. It’s better to abandon the shackles of the world and often wander around to read the books one likes. Who can borrow a bucket of water to save the dying fish in the ruts? Those who refuse to save their lives have no right to gossip.
自小就带着经书去锄地，本来是和兄长居住在一起过着耕读的日子。读书不求功名因而遭到周遭亲朋的指责嘲笑，还被自己的妻子疏远。干脆抛弃人世间的牵绊，时常游走四方读自己喜欢的书。有谁能够借来一斗水，让车辙中即将涸死的鱼能够活命，那些见死不救的人没有资格说三道四。
寒山·《少小带经锄》
少小带经锄，本将兄共居。
缘遭他辈责，剩被自妻疏。
抛绝红尘境，常游好阅书。
谁能借斗水，活取辙中鱼。
I Do Not Answer Why I Stare Into Puddles
Respectfully, I thought to live with my brother;
I wore books in my sleeve, plowing fields.
But my brother berated me:
My wife found him wise.
I have renounced this desert world.
I read what I love, roving.
You there! A ladle’s water, no more:
Buoy this perch stranded in the carriage track.
