Beneath the light, the river and hills are beautiful, The spring breeze bears the fragrance of flowers and grass. The mud has thawed, and swallows fly around. On the warm sand, mandarin ducks are sleeping.
Du FuRead
Could I get mansions covering ten thousand miles, I'd house all the poor scholars and make them beam with smiles
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote expresses a desire to provide shelter and happiness for those in need through generosity and kindness.
Du Fu's quote reflects the profound compassion he feels for the less fortunate, particularly the scholars who struggle. It emphasizes the idea that if he had the resources, he would use them not for personal gain, but to create a sanctuary where the poor can find joy and support, highlighting the importance of altruism and the responsibility we have towards others in society.
Themes
GenerosityCompassionAltruismScholarsShelter
In practice
Example use cases
In a charity event focused on education, this quote could inspire donations for scholarships.
More from Du Fu
All quotes βThe weeping voices rise straight up and strike the clouds. A passer-by at the roadside asks a conscript why, The conscript answers only that drafting happens often.
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My heart is in a world of water and crystal, My clothes are damp in this time of spring rains.
Du FuRead
I see shining fish struggling within tight nets, while I hear orioles singing carefree tunes. Even trivial creatures know the difference between freedom and bondage. Sympathy and compassion should be but natural to the human heart.
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