Tang Dynasty · Hermitage & Cloud Mountains
Seeking the Hermit in Vain寻隐者不遇
By Jia Dao (贾岛)
松下问童子，
言师采药去。
只在此山中，
云深不知处。
Beneath the ancient pine I questioned the boy;
He said his master had set out to gather healing herbs.
"Somewhere within the quiet folds of this mountain,
Yet the clouds lie so deep, no one knows where he is."
Line-by-Line Study with Pinyin
Detailed study breakdown matching each verse with character pinyin and English phrasing.
Traditional Color: 霁青
The pristine cerulean blue of mountain skies cleared by mountain rain, representing tranquility, pure solitude, and spiritual freedom.
Cultural Context & Zen Lore
Jia Dao (779–843) was famed for his obsessive word-polishing (the famous origin of "tui qiao" 推敲). In Chinese culture, pine trees and herb-gathering symbolize longevity and the Daoist pursuit of transcendent natural harmony.
Enjoy Classical Poetry Every Day on Your Phone
Jizhi brings handpicked Tang & Song verses to your lock screen and desktop widgets, paired with traditional Chinese colors that flow with the weather and seasons. 100% free with no distracting ads.