---
title: Handscroll of the Humble Abode
date: 2024-06-22
excerpt: A sound sleep, quiet and dreamless
tags: [Literature]
cover: https://assets.vluv.space/cover/Essay/蓬户手卷.webp
updated: 2026-07-08 07:09:23
lang: en
i18n:
  cn: /handscroll_of_the_humble_abode
  translation: 2
---

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<div class="poem">

The humble door is shut, the path to the well has gone wild. Moss covers everything, and no footprints remain. In the garden I plant Shao Ping's melons; by the gate I plant the Master's willows. At dawn I call the boy and ask whether the mountain peaches have fallen, whether the magnolias have opened. I water the flowers by hand from a jar and clear away insects, silk, and spiders as the hour allows. With no cap and no shoes, I sit by the waterside window, seeking the cool wind. I burn fine incense and brew bitter tea. Suddenly I see a strange bird come and sing among the trees. When I am a little tired, I lie down. On a cool pillow I sleep, a fine sleep, clear and dreamless; even if I dream, I am still among the bamboo terrace and tea banks.

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