By the bonfire at night

Author: Wang Yongbin (Qing Dynasty)
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2003-01-01
Features: In a cold night, sitting by the hearth with the family, is the joy of the farmer's wife and children. However, sitting alone by the dim light, whether in silence or chatting nonsense, is not truly joy—shouldn't this fine night be wasted? I am a farmer who can read and write. At the end of the year, when the family gathers, we roast and stew sweet potatoes together. When something comes to mind, I often speak of it and ask my children to write it down, titling it "Evening Talks by the Hearth." But what is recorded is done so spontaneously, without order and with shallow words, mostly not earnest opinions—just to teach the family to enjoy the night. It is not worth sharing with outsiders. If a virtuous gentleman with wisdom corrects it, I would be grateful.