By describing the posture, habits, residence and singing of cicada, this poem eulogizes the lofty elegance and extraordinary character of cicada, implies that he has noble character and can become famous without some external force, and expresses warm praise and high confidence in his inner character.
Translation:
Cicada hung its tentacles and sipped the cool dew, and the long sound came from under the lush buttonwood.
Because it lives in a high place, its sound will spread far and far, not by the autumn wind.
Creative background:
This poem was written by Emperor Taizong after Yu Shinan entered the Tang Dynasty from the Sui Dynasty. The poet's life was extremely bumpy. First he worked for the Southern Dynasty Chen, then he destroyed Sui Chen, and went to Chang 'an with his brother Yu Shijie. After Yu Wenhuaji killed Yang Di, Nan was taken to Liaocheng, and then became a puppet official in Dou Jiande. It was not until Li Shimin killed Dou Jiande that he became a soldier in Qin Gong.
Since then, he has been assisting Emperor Taizong and gradually became a senior official. After his death, he "tried to shape himself in Lingyange."
It can be seen that the poet has always adhered to the right path all his life, been faithful in troubled times, and finally met the Lord and gained a good reputation. This poem is a portrayal of the poet encouraging himself to be diligent.