The Book of Poetry is the first collection of poetry in China, edited by Confucius. Confucius once said to his disciples, "You can't speak without studying the poems," which means that you don't know how to speak without learning poetry.
"Zhou Nan Guan Ju" is the first verse of the Book of Poetry, and its status is extremely important. Confucius commented that the poem was "happy but not obscene, mournful and not hurtful."
original
Guan Guan Ju Dove, in the River Continent. Ladies and gentlemen. Jagged lettuce, left and right. Ladies and gentlemen, covet it. I can't ask for it, I can't help it. Leisurely, tossing and turning. Jagged lettuce, left and right. Lady, Qin Ser yuzhi. Jagged lettuce, left and right. Ladies and gentlemen, bells and drums.
Translations
Ah, the clear waters of the river
Wrap around
Verdant sandbars
The dove is on top
Sing happily
What a beautiful girl
Come and be my virtuous bride
Lettuce in a small river
Swaying from side to side
Pick it cheerfully
My thoughts are long
Sleepless day and night
Keep picking left and right
I want to play the piano and drum and fall in love with you
I will make you cheerful with the sound of bells and drums