A lifetime spans thirty years, and I am now twenty-nine.
At this age, men of old had already achieved immortal deeds.
Yan Yuan spoke of the fasting of the heart, and stood dumbfounded behind the Master.
Three thousand disciples were recorded, yet he alone ranked first among the four categories.
Xun Yu, a talent fit to assist a king, his wisdom and strategy matched Zhang Liang's.
He freed himself to become a chief strategist, resolving conflicts with ease in talk and laughter.
Yuan Bin and Xi Zhi, the two Lis, stood by his side.
Summoned again to explore the profound mysteries, their writings matched Han Yu and Liu Zongyuan.
Mature and surpassing his peers from youth, he was never ashamed before the aged.
Xiang Tuo was truly worthy as a teacher; how dare Confucius treat him as a mere friend?
Kong Rong ascended the Dragon Gate, and Yuan Li received him with ever greater kindness.
Shu Du's waves spanned a thousand acres, enough to make Xun Shu feel ashamed.
Chen Fan set up a single room, vowing to cleanse the filth of the world.
When Jia Yi entered the court, his wailing moved the enlightened sovereign.
Lu Ji completed his "Rhapsody on Literature," and all who saw it withdrew their hands in respect.
Who could compare to Mi Heng in brilliance? The imperial house should have received him.
Li He's brocade bag held fine lines that rivaled precious jade.
Looking upon the annals, they shine brightly like constellations in the sky.
And what am I alone? Compared to them, I have nothing.
Recalling the affairs of those past times, sweat soaks my back like a flowing stream.
Sitting year after year at the bottom of a well, I could not even distinguish mortar from pestle.
At the crossroads, the sheep was lost; trying to paint a tiger, it ended up like a dog.
If the raging tide does not turn back, how can I wash away this shame?
Alas, the years pass by, easier than bending or stretching an elbow.
Every fraction of time must be cherished; do not be negligent with what is yet to come.
Like the son who labors in the fields, would he dare to weed carelessly?
He hopes for the fine seedlings to grow, not to be choked by weeds.
My vigor is still at its peak; I am not yet a stooped old man.
High fame is not what my heart desires; may I live without blame till the end of my days.