Top 15 Most Insightful Essays Analyzing Ho Chi Minh's Poem "On the Road"

The poem "Going on the Road" (Tẩu Lộ) is excerpted from the collection *Prison Diary*. Similar to several other poems with the same theme, such as *From Long An to Dong Chinh*, *Going to Nanning*, *Leaving Early*, *On the Road*, and *Evening*, this poem also captures the impressions felt during the journey. What sets this poem apart is how those feelings are generalized and elevated into philosophy.

Therefore, in addition to its realistic meaning, the poem also conveys profound symbolic significance. With the artistic mastery of the poet, the image of a grand nature is painted, and against this majestic backdrop, the upright posture of a revolutionary soldier stands out, reflecting their determination to overcome difficulties and an optimistic belief in the bright future of the revolution:

"Tẩu lộ tài tri tẩu lộ nan,

Trùng san chi ngoại hựu trùng san;

Trùng san đăng đáo cao phong hậu,

Vạn lí dư đồ cố miện gian."

Translating into Vietnamese poetry:

"Going on the road reveals the hardships,

High mountains follow one after another;

The mountains rise to their highest peak,

The vast waters and mountains unfold in sight."

The original text of the poem is in Classical Chinese, following the *shi* form (seven characters, four lines). The brevity and condensed nature of the language, along with the strict rules of *Tang poetry*, could not constrain the expansive theme and the overflowing emotions of the poet. The Vietnamese translation, though slightly softening the rhythm and firmness of the original, still preserves the philosophical essence and artistic value of the poem.

The opening line expresses the poet's general reflection on the journey: "Tẩu lộ tài tri tẩu lộ nan" (Going on the road reveals the hardships). This is not merely a subjective observation after a few simple trips but rather a culmination of numerous arduous and perilous journeys the poet has endured.

During his fourteen months of wrongful imprisonment by Chiang Kai-shek’s government, Ho Chi Minh was frequently transferred from one prison to another across thirteen counties in Guangxi Province. His hands were shackled, and his feet were bound, enduring freezing fog or scorching midday sun. He climbed mountains, crossed passes, and waded through streams—facing challenges so intense that they often seemed beyond human endurance. From this harsh reality, the poet generalized his journey into a metaphor for life's trials. The second line specifically conveys these hardships in the image of:

"Trùng san chi ngoại hựu trùng san"

(High mountains follow one after another)

In this scene, where only high mountains stretch endlessly, the human being—small and fragile—feels even smaller and more vulnerable. The long road, deep valleys, steep cliffs, and constant obstacles can easily demoralize and discourage someone. Just as one summit is overcome, physical and mental energy is drained, and another high mountain looms in the distance. The character "hựu" in the original Chinese adds a sense of harshness, and the translation magnifies this severity: "High mountains follow one after another."

The hardships are beyond measure! The closed structure in the original Chinese (Trùng san chi ngoại hựu trùng san) shifts to a progressive repetition in the Vietnamese translation, with the latter part weighed down by the phrase "trập trùng" at the end. This structure creates an image of a person trapped in a wilderness of mountains, unable to escape, only left with exhaustion, despair, and surrender.

But for the poet, the experience is entirely different:

"Trùng san đăng đáo cao phong hậu"

"Vạn lí dư đồ cố miện gian."

(The mountains rise to their highest peak,

The vast waters and mountains unfold in sight.)

In the midst of the vast, towering mountains, a point of light emerges—the human being, small and weak on the outside, yet possessing extraordinary willpower and strength within.

The first line ends with the image of "trùng san" (mountains), and the following line begins with the same image. In the Vietnamese translation, the pattern of "high mountains... high mountains..." is preserved. The rhythm elevates the human figure, seemingly ordinary but in reality heroic.

Ascending one peak after another like stepping on stairs, the journey continues toward the highest summit. The original Chinese line ends with the strong sound of "hậu," creating a firm, powerful tone. The translation carries the rhythm of relief and joy: "The mountains rise to their highest peak."

At this point, all the struggles and hardships come to an end; the reward and result open up. What was once a confrontation with sheer cliffs and rocks now unfolds into a panoramic view, with mountains and waters stretching endlessly. Reaching the highest peak, the horizon expands, offering not only a broader view but also a broader mind, heart, and life.

The person has reached their destination after a journey filled with countless hardships. The final lines of the poem resonate with an unwavering optimism about the bright future ahead. The vast waters and mountains now lie within the poet's sight. The poem concludes in immense joy and pride.

So, is this poem merely about a journey? The road is not just filled with hardships because of high mountains, but also the many dangers and difficulties one faces in life. The image of the towering mountains symbolizes the countless challenges and dangers that one encounters in life. Therefore, the "road" here is not just a physical path but a metaphor for life's journey, the revolutionary path.

How many people go through life without encountering obstacles, smoothly sailing toward success? Challenges and dangers are part of the natural course. To overcome them, one must possess unwavering determination, extraordinary inner strength, and an unshakable belief in the impossible. Only then can one achieve glorious victory. The true victory is overcoming adversity, and more importantly, triumphing over oneself.

If the road is the revolutionary path, then the inevitable truth mentioned above becomes even clearer. Ho Chi Minh's life of struggle and sacrifice stands as a shining example. On the rugged revolutionary road, through wisdom, willpower, and extraordinary resilience, he led the Vietnamese people through countless hardships and challenges to reach the pinnacle of glory in the modern era.

From the seemingly ordinary journey, the veteran communist soldier Ho Chi Minh has taught us a practical and valuable lesson in life.

"That simple brown shirt of Uncle Ho

The color of the homeland, steadfast and vibrant

We stand by him, he shines through us…"

(To Huu)

Every action and every poem of Uncle Ho teaches us life lessons, fortifying our courage and patience to overcome challenges, and instilling unwavering confidence in the outcome of our efforts.

In the autumn of 1942, from Pac Bo, Uncle Ho crossed into China to seek international support for Vietnam's revolution, only to be arrested by the local authorities in Guangxi. For a whole year in prison, Ho Chi Minh wrote his prison diaries, which include 133 poems written in Classical Chinese on various topics, primarily to encourage himself. Among them is the poem On the Road (Tẩu Lộ).

The poem was written in the seven-character quatrain format, and poet Nam Tran translated it into Vietnamese in the six-eight rhyme scheme. It is important to note that Uncle Ho often drew inspiration from everyday images to express his thoughts and emotions. Even the title of this poem, On the Road, reflects that observation.

From specific and broad imagery, Ho Chi Minh crafted his opening line: "Tẩu lộ tài tri tẩu lộ nan"; Nam Tran's translation reads: "Only when traveling do we know the hardships."

The original line repeats the word “tẩu lộ” (on the road) to emphasize the journey, which is not echoed in the Vietnamese translation. However, the word “nan” (difficult) in the original is beautifully translated as “gian lao” (hardship), which conveys the difficulties more vividly. From this concrete image, the reader understands that every task, when begun, reveals the challenges that lie ahead.

The difficulties introduced in the opening line are elaborated upon in the next line. The original reads: "Trùng san chi ngoại hựu trùng san"; the translation renders it as: "Mountains rise, one after another." The original uses the repetition of the phrase “trùng san” (many layers of mountains) to emphasize the mountain range, clarifying the meaning of “tẩu lộ nan” (the road is difficult) from the first line.

The Vietnamese translation similarly uses repetition with “núi cao” (high mountains), the linking phrase “rồi lại” (and then again), and the onomatopoeic “trập trùng” to concretize the notion of hardship. Thus, the translation remains faithful to the poetic essence. The poet uses a real-life experience, being moved from one prison to another in Guangxi, a province full of rugged mountains, to underscore the unrelenting difficulties that everyone faces in life.

The road of life is already exhausting, and the road to reclaim independence and freedom, once lost to colonialism, is fraught with unimaginable dangers. The history of Vietnam, in its efforts to defend the country and secure independence, has exemplified these overwhelming difficulties throughout time.

Knowing this, we motivate ourselves to keep moving forward, always optimistic and striving towards our ultimate goals, much like the two lines of the original poem:

"Trùng san đăng đáo cao phong hậu,"

"Vạn lí dư đồ cố miện gian."

And the translation:

"Mountains rise to their peak,"

"From a distance, endless waters and mountains unfold."

Both the original and the translation employ inversion to emphasize the high mountains. No matter the challenge, we press on, reaching the summit, and then continue onward. The more mountains we climb, the more experiences we gain in overcoming dangerous obstacles like crossing ravines or wading through streams.

In every aspect of life, including education, the more difficulties we overcome, the more knowledge and skills we accumulate in solving problems. Eventually, we gain confidence to face the next challenge in life's journey.

Throughout his life, Uncle Ho traveled far and met many people. Each encounter added to his knowledge and experience. When he had climbed all the low hills and reached the highest peak, having overcome the greatest obstacles, success was within his grasp.

The majestic image of a person standing atop a mighty mountain peak, small in comparison to the vastness around them, is truly heroic; the success achieved is glorious. Overcoming the greatest hardship reveals what truly matters in life: what is difficult, and what brings peace and happiness. To achieve this, one must possess both heart and mind.

In the past, Nguyễn Bá Học used the image of a difficult journey to highlight the power of human determination: "The road is not difficult because rivers or mountains separate us, but because of people's reluctance to face obstacles." Similarly, Phan Bội Châu once remarked, "If the road of life were smooth, no hero would stand out." And now, we have Ho Chi Minh. His poems, which convey political and ideological teachings, are not dry, for he knew how to use everyday imagery to express his inner thoughts. Indeed, this is the poetry of a cultural icon of the world.

Uncle Ho's generation, his successors, embraced this spirit during the wars against colonialism and imperialism. The generations that followed learned from his poetry, realizing that the road of life is challenging and requires preparation to face these difficulties: knowledge is the means to "reach the peak" and overcome the shame of poverty and backwardness.

The poem “On the Road” begins with a phrase that hints at a greater meaning. Beyond merely depicting the majestic, expansive landscape of the mountains and skies, it reflects the active stance of a poet-warrior. Written in the seven-character quatrain format, it was translated into Vietnamese using the six-eight rhyme scheme:

“Only on the road do we understand hardship

High mountains, and more high mountains, piled up

The mountains rise to the very peak

Stretching to the horizon, vast rivers and mountains.”

The opening line is simple, almost like an ordinary statement: “Only on the road do we understand hardship.” The phrase “on the road” may seem trivial, but it carries immense significance. It refers to the experience of being forced on a journey, an exile. While the poet does not describe it explicitly, we, as readers, cannot overlook the context of Uncle Ho being marched relentlessly through harsh conditions: hunger, deprivation, scorching sun, endless rain, tattered shoes, 53 kilometers a day, hands bound, a collar of chains.

Despite all of this, the line seems almost like a casual reflection, with the phrase “only then do we know” appearing light and modest. But beneath this simplicity lies a wealth of personal struggle, life’s storms, and deep reflections. This line in the poem captures not only the immediate experience of the journey but also embodies a broader attitude—an evaluation of the long road of life in general and the revolutionary path in particular. Therefore, the line conveys both a specific and a general meaning.

Behind these words, we encounter a great soul, noble and pure, a sharp intellect of a patriot facing unbearable hardships yet rising above them with poise, calmness, and a clear, humble perspective.

The second line reads: “High mountains, and more high mountains, piled up.” This line vividly describes the many mountain ranges that Ho Chi Minh had to cross. Some interpret this as a representation of the difficulties mentioned in the first line. While this interpretation may hold, it’s essential to realize that the opening line is not just an initial inspiration but a conclusion drawn from a prolonged journey. Moreover, the tone of the line does more than depict hardship—it opens up a vast, layered, majestic space that is beautiful and awe-inspiring.

What is absent is any sense of suffering from shackles; instead, we see a free heart appreciating and reveling in the natural beauty of the world, like an artist. This connection to the poet's soul cannot be fully explained through words. To read Uncle Ho’s poetry is like admiring a flower; sometimes, one must pause and reflect to truly appreciate the resonance of the poet’s soul, emanating through the words, colors, and sounds—simple, pure, and graceful.

The final two lines read:

“The mountains rise to the very peak

Stretching to the horizon, vast rivers and mountains.”

The unbroken view of the mountain ranges seems to depict a scene where one mountain leads to another, each rising higher, while the person, as the subject of this majestic scene, stands triumphantly on the summit, surveying the vast, expansive landscape of the land and rivers beneath them. This scene is filled with a sense of pride and accomplishment, as if the person has triumphed over all obstacles and now sees the vast beauty of their homeland spread before them.

The line describes nature, but it also subtly conveys the inner happiness of someone who has endured immense suffering and finally reached the peak. In the structure and rhythm of classical poetry, the poet’s words transcend the conventional, striving for a higher, more noble level.

These verses possess the beauty of both grand nature and a noble soul. They not only depict the towering mountains but also express the height of vision, willpower, strength, faith, and lofty ideals. Indeed, when one possesses a noble purpose and unyielding determination, no peak is too high to reach. And in that moment, one will discover limitless happiness. This is the profound conclusion that the poem offers its readers.

Ho Chi Minh’s Prison Diary is a monumental literary work, highly regarded as a treasure in Vietnamese literature. Many poems within the diary express sound life principles and have become valuable lessons for all. The poem ‘On the Road’ serves as a prime example. Reading this poem from Ho Chi Minh gives us another invaluable lesson for life’s journey.

Only on the road do we understand hardship,

High mountains, and more high mountains, piled up;

The mountains rise to the very peak,

Stretching to the horizon, vast rivers and mountains.

At its core, the road depicted in the poem is a difficult, challenging path. Climbing one mountain is grueling, and after overcoming it, a higher mountain awaits. The mountains stretch endlessly. However, once you reach the highest peak, you will be able to see everything around you, and at that moment, all struggles seem trivial.

The road in the poem also holds a profound symbolic meaning. This road represents life itself, filled with challenges and struggles. Yet, with determination and persistence, one can achieve great success and reach remarkable heights.

The poem reveals a universal truth: although life is often difficult and full of obstacles, only through determination and perseverance can we achieve meaningful results. Life’s hardships demand that we face them, and our ability to tackle them reflects our inner resolve and commitment. Success only comes through struggle and continuous effort.

Ho Chi Minh’s poetry also contains lines that highlight the challenges of life, emphasizing the power of human will:

Rice pounded brings great pain,

But once ground, it turns as white as cotton,

Life, too, is like this,

Enduring hardship leads to success.

The poem ‘On the Road’ illustrates the courage and determination of Ho Chi Minh. Indeed, this poem is not just his personal journey—it is a journey meant for everyone.

"Prison Diary" is a unique and remarkable collection of poems by Ho Chi Minh. Reading the poems he wrote during the harsh months in the distant prison camps only deepens our admiration for this extraordinary soul. Ho Chi Minh not only had a profound love for nature and an immense affection for his country and people, but he also embodied the spirit of a great man with extraordinary willpower and resilience, maintaining an optimistic outlook despite countless hardships and dangers. The poem ‘On the Road’ exemplifies this grand spirit.

"Only on the road do we understand hardship,

High mountains, and more high mountains, piled up,

The mountains rise to the very peak,

Stretching to the horizon, vast rivers and mountains."

The opening lines of the poem reflect the wisdom gained from countless arduous journeys, as Ho Chi Minh, through his own struggles, realized that the road ahead is not easy. It is full of challenges, and every mountain he overcame was followed by another even higher peak. The long road from one mountain to another, the continuous ascent, tested the strength of the revolutionary prisoner.

The series of towering mountains seem to mock each step, challenging the resolve and strength of the prisoner. The line captures the harshness of the journey, but also the triumph of reaching the highest peak. Upon overcoming the last mountain, the prisoner stands at the summit, overlooking the vast, magnificent landscape that stretches before him.

After walking the treacherous path, the prisoner now stands calmly, enjoying the breathtaking beauty of the land, a beauty that endures through time. The hardships fade away, replaced by an overwhelming sense of joy as he gazes at the natural splendor around him.

Yet, the poem holds deeper meaning beyond its literal interpretation. It serves as a metaphor for the journey of life, especially the revolutionary struggle for independence and freedom. The revolutionary path is fraught with obstacles, and it requires inner strength to overcome them. The difficulties we face may come from many sources, but they should never make us falter. Instead, we must calmly face these challenges, using our willpower to transcend them, striving for a brighter future for the nation.

Thus, when the revolution succeeds and the country is liberated, it is the moment when the people can rejoice, and the land will be at peace. The revolutionary path is not a quick journey; it is filled with obstacles and the cruelty of oppressors. Revolutionaries must remain steadfast, working hard to fulfill their duties and achieve victory for the people. Through this poem, we also learn an important lesson about life itself.

Life is full of obstacles, rough stones, and boulders that we must overcome. Success comes to those who face challenges with determination, viewing adversity as a natural part of life. By overcoming these obstacles, we receive rewards far greater than we could imagine. We must trust in ourselves, maintain a positive spirit, and focus on the beauty life has to offer.

Reading this poem makes us respect and appreciate Ho Chi Minh even more. His verses are soaked with deep emotion, filled with determination and optimism. Ho Chi Minh once said: "The road is not difficult because of rivers and mountains, but because people fear the challenge." Perhaps through this poem, Ho Chi Minh has sent us timeless messages of positive living, messages that will endure through the ages.

Bị bắt vì bị tình nghi là gián điệp, những ngày tháng bị chính quyền Tưởng Giới Thạch bắt giam, Bác Hồ đã bị giải đi rất nhiều những nhà lao qua nhiều tỉnh thành ở Trung Quốc. Ra đời trong hoàn cảnh như vậy, rất nhiều bài thơ trong tập “Nhật kí trong tù” được lấy cảm hứng từ đề tài đi đường mà “Tẩu lộ” mà một bài thơ như vậy.Mở đầu bài thơ, Người đưa ra một lời triết lí vô cùng giản dị, tự nhiên mà chân xác:

Tẩu lộ tài tri tẩu lộ nan

(Đi đường mới biết gian lao)

Đúng là chỉ có đi đường mới biết đường gập ghềnh, khó đi, phải là người trực tiếp đi thì mới biết gian lao của nó. Hơn nữa tuyến đường mà Hồ Chủ Tịch đang bị áp giải không hề dễ đi mà vô cùng lắm ổ voi, ổ chuột, Người lại đi chân đất, đầu trần trong tư thế bị trói, bị canh giữ. Một cung đường không hề dễ đi chút nào. Điệp lại từ “tẩu lộ” ở cũng một dòng thơ khiến cho câu thơ in sâu hơn ấn tượng về sự đi đường với người đọc. Những câu tiếp theo, Người đặc tả về sự khó khăn ấy một cách cụ thể:

Trùng san chi ngoại hựu trùng san

Trùng san đăng đáo cao phong hậu

(Núi cao rồi lại núi cao trập trùng;

Núi cao lên đến tận cùng)

Đến đây ta hiểu rằng, những con đường mà thi nhân đang phải vượt đâu chỉ là những con đường xấu, gồ ghề mà là đường đồi núi cao, hiểm trở trập trùng không chỉ gian nan mà còn là nguy hiểm cận kề. Từ “trùng” được điệp lại nhiều lần gợi cho ta cảm giác về những dãy núi cao trập trùng, hết dãy này đến dãy khác, cứ đi mãi, đi mãi mà cảm giác không sao đi hết được vì cứ vượt qua được dãy núi này thì lại xuất hiện một dãy núi khác đòi hỏi ta lại phải vượt qua.

Nếu ở câu trên, núi được mở ra theo chiều rộng thì câu dưới núi mở ra theo chiều cao. Núi không chỉ nhiều, trùng điệp giăng khắp nơi mà còn cao, dựng đứng lên đến tận cùng vô cùng khó để vượt qua. Trong hoàn cảnh của người tù cách mạng bấy giờ thì đúng là nỗi khó khăn tăng lên gấp bội.

Ba câu trên đều nói tới khó khăn vất vả của việc đi đường, có phải ta sẽ lầm hiểu rằng nhà thơ đang mệt mỏi, kiệt sức, thoái chí nản lòng trên con đường gian nan cực khổ ấy nhưng nếu là vậy thì đó đã không phải là phong thái của Chủ Tịch Hồ Chí Minh. Mọi ánh sáng dường như hội tụ hết chính là ở câu thơ cuối bài:

Vạn lý dư đồ cố miện gian.

(Thu vào tầm mắt muôn trùng nước non)

Tuy rằng ở ba câu thơ trên, ta cảm nhận được biết bao gian nan khó nhọc của việc đi đường, xuống đến câu dưới, hình như mọi gian nan, hiểm trở tan biến đâu hết mà chỉ còn là khung cảnh thiên nhiên đẹp của muôn trùng nước non. Không còn hình bóng của một người tù bị áp giải mà chỉ còn hình ảnh của một du khách đang đứng giữa đất trời, sảng khoái mà tận hưởng thành quả sau khi đã vượt qua tất cả những cung đường khó khăn kia.

Ở ba câu thơ đầu, hình ảnh thiên nhiên bao la rợn ngợp đến đâu thì câu thơ cuối con người không còn nhỏ bé bị thiên nhiên làm cho khiếp sợ mà trở nên cao lớn, hào sảng, hiên ngang vô cùng. Và đây cũng là tinh thần lạc quan, yêu thiên nhiên nơi người chiến sĩ cách mạng vĩ đại không bao giờ mất niềm tin vào cuộc đời.

Cả bài thơ đã gợi ra một triết lí sâu sắc đó là đi đường tuy có gian lao nhưng nếu ta có bản lĩnh vượt qua thì ta sẽ gặt hái được vẻ đẹp cuối con đường. Suy rộng ra, đây là con đường cách mạng, con đường đời, con đường nào cũng nhiều gian nan hiểm trở nhưng khi ta đã vượt qua thì ta sẽ đạt được những thành quả như mong đợi.

Chỉ với bài thơ thất ngôn tứ tuyệt cô đọng mà gợi ra cả một triết lí sâu sắc, và trên tất cả, ta thấy kính phục biết bao khí chất ngời sáng vĩ đại của Bác Hồ. Chính tinh thần thép ấy đã giúp Bác trở nên rắn rỏi hơn kể cả trong bất kì hoàn cảnh khắc nghiệt nào.

Hoang Trung Thong once remarked about Uncle Ho's poetry:

“His verses are as strong as steel

Yet still vast with boundless love.”

Perhaps this steel-like quality is evident in the optimistic spirit and incredible resilience of Ho Chi Minh during his arduous travels, even when captured by the enemy or enduring difficult journeys. This spirit is clearly reflected in his poem "On the Road".

“Only when on the road do we realize the hardships

The mountains rise, one after another, steep and high

The mountains stretch into the endless horizon

The vast landscape unfolds before the eyes.”

The opening line seems like a sincere, natural confession of a seasoned traveler who has faced countless difficult paths. It also captures the hardships and struggles of a revolutionary soldier. Yet, these difficulties are not the only obstacles revealed in his poetry. In another poem, we encounter a similar image:

“Hanging legs dangling like a pendulum.” Yet, in the current context, this road is not just the physically demanding path of a soldier; it symbolizes life's journey—full of twists, turns, and challenges—or perhaps even the revolutionary path full of unforeseen hurdles. It's a long road, not everyone has the strength or willpower to endure: “The mountains rise, one after another, steep and high.”

The repeated use of the word “mountain” emphasizes the harsh, rugged landscape, illustrating a desolate and treacherous wilderness. It reminds us of these two lines from Quang Dung’s later poetry:

“Steep cliffs rise, deep and towering

Lonely peaks where clouds and gunfire touch the sky.”

Through the simple yet powerful repetition, combined with adjectives that enhance the rhythm, the verse reflects the weary journey of a determined traveler. But the poem doesn’t stop there; the following lines reveal the essence of Ho Chi Minh’s revolutionary spirit:

“The mountains reach the highest peaks

All the vast landscape unfolds before the eyes.”

After a long, exhausting journey, the perseverance and determination of the traveler are rewarded. Reaching the summit symbolizes overcoming great challenges. This is the spirit of a revolutionary soldier, a testament to unwavering strength, determination, and resilience. Some say the road is not difficult because of the mountains and rivers, but because people fear to face them.

Through these lines, Ho Chi Minh demonstrates the power of resolve and endurance. It’s a reflection of the indomitable spirit of the Vietnamese people, known for their resilience and determination. In the final verse, the traveler reaches the pinnacle, rewarded with a breathtaking view of nature’s beauty.

In a calm and poised stance, the traveler now commands the vast landscape, symbolizing mastery over both nature and the challenges of life. Amidst suffering and hardship, the traveler finds space to elevate the spirit, free from the constraints of chains and oppression.

This represents the optimistic outlook of a revolutionary soldier. In the final lines, there’s a shift from hardship to serenity and confidence, marking the positive, forward-looking perspective of a revolutionary leader who believes in the national liberation journey.

With immense resolve and enduring strength, the poem serves as a guiding light for overcoming adversity. It highlights the spirit of Ho Chi Minh, the poet-soldier, who is revered and proud of his legacy.

Ho Chi Minh was a renowned leader of our country, a man who dedicated his life to liberating the nation and helping our people escape from the shackles of oppression. In addition to being a revolutionary, Ho Chi Minh was also a poet and writer of great renown in Vietnam. Each of his works reflects a deep love for the homeland and an optimistic spirit, harmonizing with the beauty of nature.

The poem "Going on the Road" encapsulates a resilient and determined spirit, showcasing optimism even amidst difficult circumstances. The poem was written when Ho Chi Minh was imprisoned under the brutal regime of Chiang Kai-shek.

"Tài lộ tài tri tẩu lộ nan

Trùng san chi ngoại hựu trùng san

Trùng san đăng đáo cao phong hậu

Vạn lí dư đồ cố miện gian"

The poem can be translated as:

"Only by going on the road do we realize its hardships"

The towering mountains stretch endlessly ahead,

Mountains rise higher until they meet the sky,

While vast landscapes of rivers and mountains unfold beneath us."

This poem was composed during Ho Chi Minh's imprisonment in Chiang Kai-shek's prison. During this period, the author wrote many beautiful poems, which were later compiled into the famous collection, "Prison Diary".

"Going on the Road" was written during one of the times when the poet was being transferred from one prison to another. The journey was long and perilous, traversing dangerous mountainous terrain in a remote area, surrounded by hidden dangers.

The line "Only by going on the road do we realize its hardships" expresses the difficulty and challenges of the journey. It reflects the immense struggles the author faced, even as he was shackled and chained. The line "The towering mountains stretch endlessly ahead" evokes the idea of vast, rugged mountains, symbolizing the tough conditions of the journey. The poet's experience in these harsh conditions also paints a picture of the cruelty and inhumanity of Chiang Kai-shek's regime, which subjected innocent people to unimaginable suffering.

The mountainous terrain of Guangxi province, China, which the poet passed through, is depicted as vast and formidable. The endless layers of mountains emphasize the difficulty and the seemingly unending obstacles, much like the imprisonment that the poet had to endure. These images underscore both the natural beauty and the relentless hardships faced by the poet during this challenging period of his life.

The poem "Going on the Road" is a treasured intellectual creation by Ho Chi Minh, the great leader of our nation. It is a work born under special circumstances: during his time in exile and imprisonment in China. Through his own experiences, he wrote the poetry collection "Prison Diary," with "Going on the Road" being one of its pieces. The poem follows the structure of seven-character quatrains and has been translated into the lục bát form:

"Only by going on the road do we understand the hardships

The towering mountains rise one after another

The mountains rise to their highest point

And the vast rivers and mountains unfold before our eyes."

From the first line, we see the simple yet powerful expression of Ho Chi Minh: "Only by going on the road do we understand the hardships." The term "going on the road" may seem ordinary, but in the context of being shackled and dragged across difficult terrain, it speaks to the reality of being forcibly taken on a journey of exile.

Although Ho Chi Minh doesn’t use many descriptive images, the historical context is still clear. His poem does not explicitly describe the journey from one prison to another, nor does it depict the hardships of hunger and suffering. The phrase "only by going on the road do we understand the hardships" seems modest, yet it conveys the immense struggles he faced.

Thus, the first line of the poem not only encapsulates the experience of traveling but also reflects on the suffering and perseverance endured during his imprisonment, as well as the path toward national liberation. The second line introduces the landscape: "The towering mountains rise one after another."

The mountains appear in layers, extending endlessly in front of Ho Chi Minh along his journey. The mountains represent the hardships and struggles he faced. Ahead, there were mountains, and behind, there were more, creating an endless cycle of obstacles, symbolizing the continuous suffering he experienced. The poem’s second line expands on the first, illustrating how the path was obstructed by towering, treacherous mountains, with the prisoner burdened by chains.

The final two lines further emphasize the grandeur of the landscape:

"The mountains rise to their highest point

And the vast rivers and mountains unfold before our eyes."

The mountains are not just extended across the landscape; they "rise to their highest point," marking the moment when the prisoner faces the most extreme challenges. In this vast universe, humanity appears insignificant, yet with determination and resolve, one can conquer the peak after overcoming countless obstacles.

While the traveler seems to stroll and admire the scenery, they are in fact confronting tremendous difficulties. However, the prisoner remains in control of their destiny. At that moment, the traveler takes in the entire surrounding landscape, feeling immense joy in having overcome all obstacles and pain to enjoy the beauty of the world and the triumph of freedom from suffering.

Ho Chi Minh’s poem "Going on the Road" transcends a simple description of nature. It paints a profound image of the traveler, capturing the simplicity and romanticism of the journey, giving the poem a unique and powerful appeal.

Ho Chi Minh once said: "I never had a passion for reciting poems / But what could I do in prison?" This sentiment captures the essence of the poem collection "Prison Diary," written during the years he was imprisoned. The collection has been compared to a flower that Vietnamese literature unwittingly discovered on its path. It reflects a resilient, optimistic spirit: “The poems written under the brutal and decaying regime of Chiang Kai-shek exude an air of composure, heroic spirit, unyielding will, and an unwavering revolutionary optimism.” The poem "On the Road" is one such example.

“The road is long, and it’s hard to know it well”

“Endless mountains, one after another”

“Climbing up the peaks after the last one”

“A thousand miles ahead, the road still stretches far.”

This poem was composed during Ho Chi Minh's imprisonment in the prison of Chiang Kai-shek. Ho was moved from one prison to another, and the journey between them was long, arduous, and fraught with treacherous mountains and deep ravines. Despite this, the poem bursts with the indomitable will of Ho Chi Minh, even in the face of suffering. The poem "On the Road"—"The Road of Prison Transfer"—expresses this clearly.

"Only on the road do we truly understand hardship." This line is not just a statement but also a profound truth: only by traveling do we truly grasp the hardships of the journey. So, what exactly are these "hardships" and "difficulties"?

"Endless mountains upon mountains." The road of prison transfer passed through the rugged mountains of Guangxi, China. Layer upon layer of towering peaks stretched endlessly to the horizon. Once one peak ended, another followed. This is the essence of the line "Endless mountains upon mountains". In the original Chinese text, "Chong shan chi wai you chong shan" means "layers upon layers of high mountains, followed by more layers of high mountains." The repetition of "chong shan" emphasizes the sense of towering peaks that stretch infinitely, creating a terrifying image of the journey.

If the prisoner were an ordinary person, they might have been weakened by fear and despair. But this prisoner was none other than Ho Chi Minh, the great communist leader. Therefore, the final two lines of the poem truly shine:

“Climbing up the peaks after the last one”

“A thousand miles ahead, the road still stretches far.”

These lines have been translated as:

“Climbing higher to the distant peak”

“My gaze stretches over the boundless land and water.”

After enduring the struggles of the mountain journey, reaching the summit, the revolutionary prisoner is greeted by a magnificent sight of “the boundless land and water.” Normally, after such a difficult and tiring journey, one might feel overwhelmed or weary at the thought of the perilous descent. But Ho Chi Minh’s reaction was quite the opposite.

For him, standing at the summit, the feeling was one of pride and joy, as he marveled at the grandeur of the land and the universe. The image of “gazing at the boundless land and water” conveys a profound sense of wonder and freedom. It evokes the image of a person small and humble before the vast, endless beauty of nature, yet filled with joy and exhilaration at witnessing such splendor. This experience elevated the individual to a level on par with the grandeur of the landscape itself.

In the face of objective reality, every person perceives things differently. This perception is shaped by one’s worldview and inner strength. Ho Chi Minh, through his optimistic and radiant outlook on life, was not crushed by the physical pain of his imprisonment. Instead, he transcended the suffering, affirming his iron will, resilience, and unwavering faith in the revolution. This is the steel spirit and the beauty of Ho Chi Minh’s soul.

The poem “On the Road” – “The Road of Prison Transfer” is not only a depiction of a difficult and painful journey, but also a self-portrait of Ho Chi Minh’s spiritual strength. From the poem, readers can sense the leader’s calm composure and unshakable resolve, embodying both the demeanor of a revolutionary pioneer and the strength of a determined revolutionary soldier.

Thus, the poem “On the Road” – “The Road of Prison Transfer,” along with other poems in the collection “Prison Diary,” is truly a cherished gem of Vietnamese literature.

Trong những ngày bị tù đày, Hồ Chí Minh bị áp giải qua nhiều nhà lao. Theo Trần Dân Tiên trong những mẩu chuyện về đời hoạt động của Hồ Chủ tịch thì Người bị giam giữ trong gần ba mươi nhà lao huyện và xã. Chuyện đi đường là việc xảy ra hằng ngày.

Có chặng đường mà người đi thật dễ chịu trong khung cảnh chim ca rộn núi hương bay ngát rừng (Trên đường đi) nhưng phổ biến hơn là những chặng đường vất vả, đi đường giữa những ngày giá lạnh, đi đường núi non hiểm trở. Bài thơ Đi đường mở đầu cho hành trình bị áp giải: Đi đường mới biết gian lao.

Đây là kinh nghiệm của người đã nhiều lần lên đường, ra đi. Có đi đường mới có những kinh nghiệm về chuyện đi đường. Đây lại không phải là con đường bằng phẳng mà là một chặng đường núi non hiểm trở: Núi cao rồi lại núi cao trập trùng.

Với Đi đường, tác giả hiểu rõ đường đời khó khăn. Đường đời đây cũng là con đường đấu tranh cách mạng và người chiến sĩ cách mạng là người đi đường, không mệt mỏi. Chấp nhận và vượt lên những khó khăn, người đi đường bao giờ cũng hướng tới đích:

Giầy rách đường lầy chân lấm láp

Vẫn còn dấn bước dặm đường xa

Trong bài thơ Đi đường, những khó khăn thật chồng chất, càng ngày càng nhiều và nâng lên đến cao điểm. Câu thơ như một thử thách: Núi cao lên đến tận cùng. Người chiến sĩ cách mạng đã vượt qua được thử thách và chiến thắng. Trên cao điểm thắng lợi, biết bao tình cảm vui mừng được biểu hiện. Mừng vui vì đã chiến thắng được khó khăn, vì Người đã làm tròn trách nhiệm được giao phó.

Trên đỉnh cao, con người có những cảm xúc đặc biệt: Thu vào tầm mắt muôn trùng nước non. Có thể quan sát và bao quát nhiều phạm vi của đời sống. Đôi mắt không còn bị hạn chế trong tầm nhìn mà đã được mở rộng, thâu tóm được biết bao cảnh vật.

Đi đường là một bài thơ hay có nhiều lớp nghĩa, nghĩa đen, nghĩa bóng. Bài thơ có ý nghĩa đúc kết về kinh nghiệm, kinh nghiệm đi đường, kinh nghiệm đầu tiên của chặng đường cách mạng. Trong mấy câu thơ đầu, thiên nhiên với những vùng núi non hiểm trở như che lấp con người. Nhưng rồi con người đã chủ động vượt qua thử thách và thở thành nhân vật trung tâm của bức tranh.

Đường đời gian khổ, đường cách mạng và đầy chông gai, nhưng quyết tâm vượt khó và theo đuổi đến cùng thì rồi cũng có ngày đi tới thành công, giành được chiến thắng.

"I never liked reciting poetry
But in prison, what can I do?
Long days pass by, I recite to ease my mind
While waiting for the day of freedom to come."

This expresses the thoughts of a unique prisoner: Ho Chi Minh, a prisoner accused of being a spy while traveling to find a way to liberate the nation and expel French colonialists. His simple goal was to record the events and emotions during the fourteen months of captivity. The poem "On the Road," translated from the original "Tẩu lộ," is a heartfelt and profound journal poem.

"Tẩu lộ tài tri tẩu lộ nan
Trùng san chi ngoại hựu trùng san
Trùng san đăng đáo cao phong hậu
Vạn lí dư đồ cố miện gian " Translation:

"On the road, you realize the hardships
High mountains rise, one after another
Climbing higher to the top
The vast landscape opens up before your eyes" Without knowing the circumstances surrounding the creation of this poem, one might think that these are the words of a carefree traveler, marveling at the scenic beauty of the world! Little do they know, the author’s "journey" is not about leisurely mountain trekking, but about the painful journey of a prisoner: moving under restraint, enduring physical and mental torment. The poet speaks of this in another piece, "On the Road":

"Though my hands and feet are bound
The birds sing, and the fragrance of the forest fills the air" Or:

"Fifty-three kilometers in one day;
My clothes soaked, shoes torn by the rain" Or:

"Today the chains replaced the ropes
With every step, the clinking sound of chains rings out."....

When imagining such a journey, we begin to understand the meaning behind the words "hardships" in the line "On the road, you realize the hardships." If someone were to endure a long journey with "high mountains rising one after another" while enjoying comfort, food, and rest, they would still feel exhausted from the long trek without vehicles.

Yet in the conditions of a prisoner, lacking proper food and clothing, bound by chains, trudging through rain and wind, and without any rest, is this not an incredibly great challenge? Yet, in this poem, the words do not convey complaints, but instead, reflect an exploration and reflection on life: "On the road, you realize the hardships," through which we sense the strength and resilience of the poet-warrior.

In the second line, the poet describes the rugged mountains without mentioning the pain of the chains. The line serves as an internal monologue, a meditation on the nature of life and a record of discovering an intriguing truth while enduring the absurd and inhumane conditions.

Vietnamese folk wisdom encourages perseverance through the saying: "One day of travel is one day of learning". In this second line, the repetition of the phrase "trùng san" and the use of vague words are translated as: "High mountains rising one after another", effectively symbolizing both the poet’s journey and the arduous road of life, or the revolutionary path of the Vietnamese people. The following two lines of the poem take an unexpected turn:

"Climbing higher to the top
The vast landscape opens up before your eyes."

The translation by Nam Tran is:

"The mountain peaks rise to their utmost height
Before you, the landscape stretches endlessly."

Though the translation is the most accurate, the translator could not fully capture the emotion in the phrase "cố miện gian". The entire fourth line depicts a person who is exiled, standing at the top of a towering mountain, gazing back at their homeland with a heart full of longing. At this point, we can reflect on the poem *Climbing to the Tower of Guan* by Wang Zhihuan from the Tang dynasty:

The sun sets behind the mountains,
The Hoang River surges into the vast sea,
To view the distant horizon,
Climb one more floor and look at the waters and mountains below.
(Translation by Tran Trong San)

Both poets speak of "climbing high", but one journeys tirelessly to reach the peak, while the other only ascends a few floors. One struggles across the world, striving toward a goal. The other enjoys a leisurely existence, appreciating the beauty of nature.

Nevertheless, let us return to the thoughts of the poet-warrior. This image represents a person who "dreams of water at night, and sees the image of water by day" – a writer whose pen is deeply humanistic, with a desire for freedom for the nation and the Vietnamese homeland. A longing that the poet dedicated his entire life to realizing.