Wave-Washing Sands (No. 8) - Liu Yuxi
/浪淘沙(其八) - 刘禹锡/
A Resolve That Survives Slander
莫道谗言如浪深，
Don’t say slanderous words run as deep as waves.
莫言迁客似沙沉。
Don’t claim the exiled sink like sand.
千淘万漉虽辛苦，
Though one may sift and wash a thousand times in hardship,
吹尽狂沙始到金。
When the wild sands are blown away, gold appears.
Don’t say slanderous words run as deep as waves.
莫言迁客似沙沉。
Don’t claim the exiled sink like sand.
千淘万漉虽辛苦，
Though one may sift and wash a thousand times in hardship,
吹尽狂沙始到金。
When the wild sands are blown away, gold appears.
“Wave-Washing Sands (No. 8)” is part of Liu Yuxi’s series of poems collectively titled “Lang Tao Sha.” In this particular piece, the poet addresses the impact of slander and the hardships associated with exile. However, rather than succumbing to despair, he invokes an image of gold emerging after relentless sifting. The overall message underscores perseverance in the face of adversity.
In the opening lines, Liu Yuxi warns against overestimating the power of malicious rumors. He suggests that although they may appear overwhelming—like waves—they will not forever drown the individual’s true worth. The reference to an exiled person who might sink like sand points to the poet’s personal experience with banishment, a fate that befell many literati during the Tang Dynasty.
The crucial shift occurs in the third and fourth lines. While the process of “thousand times washing and filtering” is laborious, it is precisely this thorough test that proves one’s genuine virtue or merit. Eventually, once the “wild sand” is blown away, true gold remains. This transformative image resonates with the idea that genuine talent and moral integrity stand the test of time, regardless of temporary setbacks.
By drawing parallels between the testing of metal and personal challenges, Liu Yuxi conveys that hardship can serve as a crucible in which one’s character is refined. The poem highlights the importance of steadfastness and a belief that truth will eventually prevail, no matter how powerful slander or misfortune may seem at the outset.
This concise but powerful poem thus becomes a timeless anthem of hope, encouraging readers to hold firm to their convictions even when faced with doubt, criticism, or social ostracism. In Liu Yuxi’s worldview, persistent effort and unshakable integrity transform adversity into an opportunity to reveal one’s inner worth—much like discovering gold after rigorous searching and purification.
Key points
• Slander and adversity can test one’s resolve but do not define one’s worth.
• True merit remains even after hardship.
• Resilience and steadfast character shine through when challenges are overcome.
• The poem’s central metaphor underscores the enduring value of integrity.