The Loneliness of the Night: A Translation and Analysis of Su Shi’s “Bu Suan Zi”

Translation of Su Shi’s “Bu Suan Zi”

In the stillness of the deep night, a slender crescent moon hangs delicately among the sparse branches of the parasol trees. The water in the hourglass has long run out, and a profound silence envelops the surroundings. Who can spot the solitary figure of a reclusive person wandering about, appearing ethereal like a lone wild goose drifting across the sky? Suddenly startled, he turns back, harboring unexpressed grievances, but who is there to understand his plight?

He has searched every frigid branch but refuses to rest; willingly, he endures the desolation and chill of the sandbanks.

This renowned poem, “Bu Suan Zi,” was penned by Su Shi during his exile in Huangzhou at the Dinghui Monastery in the year 1083. The title translates to “Counting the Leaves,” suggesting a focus on the fleeting nature of beauty, reminiscent of the transient blooms in the moonlight. Su Shi’s life during this period was marked by hardship and exile, yet his spirit remained optimistic. He managed to lead his family through adversity, displaying a resilient character. However, his inner solitude and loneliness were profoundly personal experiences that few could comprehend.

In this poem, Su Shi utilizes the imagery of a moonlit night and the solitary wild goose to convey his sense of isolation and disdain for societal norms. The first half of the poem describes the desolate beauty observed in the garden at night: “The crescent moon hangs among the sparse parasol trees; the hourglass has run out, and the world is silent.” This line creates an atmosphere of solitude, preparing the reader for the appearance of the “recluse” and the “lone goose.”

The word “漏” (lòu) refers to the ancient method of measuring time using a water clock, while “漏断” indicates the late hour of the night. At this moment, as the water in the hourglass runs out and the night grows even deeper and quieter, Su Shi steps out into the courtyard and gazes up at the moon. What a lonely night it is! The moon seems to understand the mood, casting its gentle light through the scattered branches, like a delicate ornament hung among the boughs. These two lines are exquisitely crafted, capturing a sense of elevated solitude.

The following lines—“Sometimes I see the recluse wandering alone, his ethereal figure akin to that of a solitary wild goose”—paint a picture of a tranquil yet isolated existence. In the stillness, as everything around falls into slumber, who else is wandering under the moonlight, feeling the same isolation as the poet? This juxtaposition of the recluse with the wild goose serves to emphasize the solitude felt by both. The “recluse” symbolizes Su Shi himself, while the “wild goose” reflects the freedom and detachment he aspires to, creating a poignant connection between the two figures.

The next couplet—“Startled, he turns back, harboring grievances that no one comprehends”—speaks directly to the poet’s state of mind. In moments of loneliness, one often looks around in search of understanding, but what one finds is often only more isolation. “No one comprehends the grievances,” which highlights the poet’s despair—who in this world can truly understand the solitude he feels? The absence of an empathetic audience intensifies his heartache, pushing him deeper into loneliness.

“Having searched every frigid branch yet refusing to alight, I must endure the chilling isolation of the sandbanks”—here, Su Shi draws a parallel between the wild goose’s fate and his own. Despite the harsh conditions, the goose refuses to settle for less, preferring instead to face the chill alone. This metaphor beautifully encapsulates Su Shi’s own situation during his exile: he remains steadfast in his beliefs, unwilling to conform to societal expectations or seek refuge among the unworthy.

This poem reflects more than just personal sentiments; it also conveys a deeper philosophical contemplation about existence. The juxtaposition of the “recluse” and the “wild goose” symbolizes not only personal isolation but also a broader critique of societal norms that often leave individuals feeling alienated. The wild goose’s choice to remain unanchored signifies a refusal to succumb to societal pressures, representing Su Shi’s own defiance against conformity during a tumultuous time in his life.

Moreover, Su Shi’s literary style employs subtlety and layered meanings. The poem begins with an exploration of the natural world—specifically the moon and trees—before delving into the psyche of the recluse. This progression from the external to the internal reflects the complexity of human emotions and the interplay between nature and the individual spirit.

In conclusion, Su Shi’s “Bu Suan Zi” serves as a profound exploration of solitude, individuality, and the human condition. It reflects the poet’s ability to transform personal experiences into universal themes, resonating with readers across time and space. The work transcends mere poetry, becoming a meditation on the nature of existence and the struggles inherent in maintaining one’s integrity amidst societal challenges. Through the lens of a moonlit night and the imagery of a solitary wild goose, Su Shi masterfully captures the essence of loneliness and the quest for understanding, leaving us with a poignant reminder of the complexities of the human spirit.

This translation and analysis aim to convey the intricate emotions and cultural contexts embedded in Su Shi’s work while also making it accessible and relatable to American audiences. If you’d like any adjustments or additional details, just let me know!