Prosperous affairs fall apart and disperse like fragrant dust, flowing water is indifferent while the grass naturally springs. - Du Mu
—What lingers after this line?
Ephemeral Nature of Success
This quote suggests that prosperous or successful affairs are transient and will eventually disintegrate, scattering like fragrant dust. It emphasizes the impermanent nature of material wealth and achievements.
Indifference of Nature
The flowing water symbolizes the indifference of nature or time, which continues unperturbed regardless of human successes or failures. It conveys the idea that natural processes and the passage of time remain constant and unaffected by human endeavors.
Resilience of Life
The mention of grass naturally springing up highlights the resilience and renewal intrinsic to life. Despite the dissolution of prosperous affairs, life persists and renews itself, mirroring the cyclical nature of existence.
Contrasting Elements
There is a contrast between the ephemeral, fragile nature of human accomplishments (fragrant dust) and the enduring, indifferent passage of natural elements (flowing water and grass). This juxtaposition underscores the temporary and unimportant nature of human endeavors in the grand scheme of life.
Philosophical Perspective
Du Mu, a notable poet of the Tang Dynasty, often reflected on the transient nature of life and dignity. This quote encapsulates his philosophical outlook that emphasizes the fleeting nature of worldly success against the backdrop of enduring natural cycles.
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More from Du Mu →Prosperity dissipates like fragrance in the dust, the flowing water is indifferent while the grass grows naturally in the spring. - Du Mu
This quote highlights the transient nature of prosperity, comparing it to a fragrance that quickly fades. Wealth and success are not permanent and can dissipate just as easily as pleasant scents vanish in the air.
Read full interpretation →Prosperous times disperse like fragrant dust, while the flowing water is indifferent and the grass naturally returns in spring. - Du Mu
This quote highlights the fleeting nature of prosperous or successful periods in life. Just like fragrant dust, these times are enjoyable but ephemeral, and they will eventually disperse.
Read full interpretation →Prosperous affairs scatter like fragrant dust, the flowing water is indifferent and the grass returns to spring on its own. - Du Mu
This quote suggests that prosperous times or material success are transient and temporary, much like fragrant dust that disperses easily. Prosperity is fleeting and does not last forever.
Read full interpretation →