It means: After middle age, I had a strong heart for doing good, and I didn't settle down in the border of Zhong Nanshan until my later years. I often go to play alone when I am interested, and I am happy with self-appreciation and narcissism. Sometimes go to the end of the water to seek the source, or sit and watch the rising clouds change. I happened to meet a village elder in the Woods. I talked and laughed with him and often forgot to go home.
This poem does not depict the specific scenery of mountains and rivers, but focuses on expressing the carefree mood of the poet when he lives in seclusion in the mountains. The first six sentences of the poem are natural and quiet, and the poet's image is like an out-of-touch master. He doesn't care about the world and regards mountains as heaven. You can enjoy the beauty of nature anytime and anywhere without deliberately exploring secluded places. The last two sentences introduce people's activities, bring life breath, and the poet's image is more amiable.
In his later years, Wang Wei's position was not small. In fact, due to the repeated changes in the political situation, he has seen the danger of his career and wants to get rid of this disturbing world. He fasted and worshipped Buddha, carefree. After about forty years old, he began to live a secluded life. This poem describes the kind of leisure that enjoys itself.