The author of the nineteen ancient poems cannot be verified now, but about this poem, the predecessors have a saying that it is from Meicheng. However, Meicheng is a famous poet in the early Western Han Dynasty. The Fu family is far different from the time when the nineteen ancient poems were generally believed to have been written. Without definite evidence, it is impossible to determine its author.
Let’s look at this poem. The first two sentences start directly with discussion to clarify one’s own views. Life is like a lifetime of vegetation and autumn, passing by in just a few dozen years.
However, many people, even though their own lives are not good, always want to worry about things a thousand years from now, just like the story of "unfounded worries". Many people always dwell on the past and future, past regrets, and future expectations, but rarely focus on the present. The past has passed, and the future has not yet come. Doing the present well is the foundation for a better life.
After letting go of these irrelevant worries in life, you will find that the road ahead will suddenly become clearer, and you will know what you want, and then continue walking all the way.
The author also found what he wanted, which was to indulge in sensuality and pleasure. The days are so short and the nights are so long. Since you are worried about this, why don't you light a candle and travel hand in hand with me?
The last three sentences are similar to persuasion, but also imply sarcasm and contempt. I have already realized the principle of carpe diem, and of course I feel that I look down on those who are still running around in the world of mortals.
The pursuit of pleasure must be in the present, how can we wait until the future? Foolish people who care about money will only be laughed at by future generations. Is it possible to achieve enlightenment and become an immortal like Wang Ziqiao? It should be difficult to do now.