Eastern Suburbs - Wei Yingwu
/东郊 - 韦应物/
A Quiet Stroll Beyond Official Duties
东郊
Eastern Suburbs
吏舍跼终年，
I remain cooped up in the official quarters all year,
出郊旷望心，
Venturing beyond the suburbs frees my mind to wander,
孤村向晚际，
A lone village appears at the edge of dusk,
日日春光深。
Day by day, the spring light grows deeper.
In this concise yet evocative poem, Wei Yingwu contrasts the confinement of official life with the liberating power of nature. The poet begins by describing the claustrophobic feeling of being shut away in government quarters for an entire year. Yearning for space—both literal and emotional—he steps out toward the rural outskirts. These open vistas invigorate him, offering a chance to clear his mind and rediscover a sense of wonder.
The poem’s imagery of a solitary village at dusk speaks to a quieter, more intimate side of life beyond the busy routines of city or court. By juxtaposing his former cramped environment with the vastness of the countryside, Wei Yingwu highlights how a simple change of setting can awaken deeper awareness. The final line, emphasizing day-by-day growth of spring’s splendor, reminds us that nature’s beauty unfolds gradually, urging patience and mindfulness. In just four lines, the poet conveys not only the physical journey out of town, but also the internal shift toward peace and reflection.
Ultimately, “Eastern Suburbs” offers a timeless reminder that stepping beyond our usual confines—be they physical or mental—can refresh the spirit, and that in noticing nature’s gentle transformations, we may find our own path to renewal.
Key points
• A change of scenery can spark new insights.
• Brief poems can convey profound shifts in perspective.
• Tuning in to nature’s seasonal rhythms fosters inner calm and reflection.