Top 6 Best Lesson Plans for 'Nhàn' by Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm (Grade 10 Literature)

Structure

- Part 1 (first two lines): Simple rural life.

- Part 2 (next two lines): The poet's views on wisdom and folly.

- Part 3 (next two lines): Food and drink in rural areas.

- Part 4 (remaining lines): Drawing life lessons.

Lesson Content

- The poem conveys a profound, introspective message, affirming that the ideal life is one in harmony with nature, a life of simplicity and transcendence beyond worldly fame and wealth.

Guidelines for Preparing the Lesson

Question 1 (page 129, Grade 10 Literature Textbook):

- In the first line, the poet repeats the word 'each' three times, accompanied by nouns referring to farming tools, indicating an active approach to work.

- The rhythm (2/2/3) and (4/3) in the first two lines reflect a leisurely, calm pace.

- These two lines depict:

+ The poet's peaceful life in the countryside.

+ The poet's contentment and satisfaction with a self-sufficient life, along with a certain arrogance towards the ways of the world.

Question 2 (page 129, Grade 10 Literature Textbook):

- Interpretation:

+ 'A quiet place': A serene part of nature, where the soul can rest.

+ 'Noisy places': Courtrooms, corrupt systems, places filled with competition, deception, and manipulation.

- The poet's perspective on 'wisdom' and 'folly':

+ The poet identifies himself as 'foolish', accepting slander to 'seek quiet places', while leaving the 'wise' to engage in the noisy world.

+ Despite claiming to be 'foolish', the poet is actually 'wise'. He has experienced the struggles of fame and wealth, realizing that what he thought was 'wisdom' was actually 'folly'.

- The artistic effect of the antithesis in the third and fourth lines: It creates a comparison between two life philosophies, reinforcing the poet's view.

Question 3 (page 129, Grade 10 Literature Textbook):

- Notable points about the rural products and daily life in lines 5 and 6:

+ Simple, rustic food: bamboo shoots, bean sprouts.

+ Everyday life: enjoying baths in ponds, lakes, just like other rural folk.

+ These two lines paint a four-season image of rural life, with distinct flavors and fragrances for each season.

- These lines show that Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm's life was humble yet noble.

+ Humble in terms of food from homegrown produce and self-sufficiency.

+ A simple, natural lifestyle that is noble and elevated.

Question 4 (page 129, Grade 10 Literature Textbook):

- The last two lines of the poem express the poet's philosophical view on life: a secluded life, distanced from worldly struggles, maintaining purity and integrity of the soul.

- This reflects the noble and pure character of Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm.

Question 5 (page 129, Grade 10 Literature Textbook):

- Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm's life philosophy is: living in harmony with nature, avoiding places of power and court life to preserve one's integrity and noble character.

- A life of leisure does not mean ignoring society or being selfish; it means avoiding the pressures of fame and fortune, and living in alignment with nature.

- Such a life, though simple, offers peace and clarity of mind.

EXERCISE

Reflect on Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm's life and character through his poem 'Nhàn'.

- Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm's life appears simple, modest, yet noble and pure.

- His life philosophy aligns with Confucian ideals, offering guidance during troubled times: living in harmony with nature, keeping the soul pure.

- Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm's character embodies that of a scholarly recluse: lofty, pure, and wise.

Question 1 (Page 129, Literature Textbook 10, Volume 1)

How are the numerals and nouns used in the first sentence, and what is the rhythm of the first two lines of poetry? What is noteworthy about them? How do these two lines reflect the poet's life circumstances and emotional state?

Detailed Answer:

- In the first line, the poet uses the numeral 'each' repeated three times, alongside nouns denoting farming tools: 'a hoe, a plow, a fishing rod'.

- The rhythm in the first two lines suggests a leisurely pace:

One morning, /one hoe, /one fishing rod (2/2/3)

Wandering aimlessly/ Enjoying the pleasures of life (4/3)

- The two lines express a belief in a simple, leisurely life, where one enjoys daily tasks (work and play). The life depicted is poor, modest, and harmonious with nature. The three 'ones' in the lines highlight the poet's humble, uncomplicated needs.

Question 2 (Page 129, Literature Textbook 10, Volume 1)

What does the term 'solitude' and 'noisy places' mean? How does the poet view the concepts of 'wise' and 'foolish'? What is the impact of the contrast in the third and fourth lines of poetry?

Detailed Answer:

- The phrase 'we are foolish, others are wise' confirms the poet's philosophy of life, with a touch of irony aimed at others. 'We are foolish' refers to a form of innocence associated with great wisdom. The old saying 'Great wisdom seems foolish' means those with great intellect often appear clumsy or naive outwardly. So, when the poet says 'we are foolish,' it reflects his arrogance towards worldly matters.

+ A 'solitary place' is not about avoiding life, but finding a space where one can live freely, connect with nature, and withdraw from the hustle of politics and material pursuits to embrace a higher state of being.

+ A 'noisy place' refers to the world of power and greed, where people fight for material wealth and status. Clearly, Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm prefers a life of simplicity, turning away from fame and fortune.

- This is a colloquial expression, not necessarily the poet's view. The poet borrows the common language of the time to express his beliefs, regardless of whether others perceive them as wise or foolish. In times of turmoil, scholars sought peaceful, secluded places to live in retirement.

- The contrast between 'a quiet place' and 'a noisy place' highlights the poet's preference for a simple, detached life away from worldly distractions. The opposition between the two emphasizes the significance of each.

Question 3 (Page 129, Literature Textbook 10, Volume 1)

What is significant about the seasonal products and the living environment in lines 5-6? What do these two lines reveal about Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm's life? Analyze the artistic value of these lines.

Detailed Answer:

- The seasonal products and lifestyle depicted are simple and humble yet noble. The poet's life is harmoniously aligned with nature, reflected in the minimalistic pleasures of everyday life.

In autumn, eating bamboo shoots, winter eating sprouts,

In spring, bathing in the lotus pond, summer bathing in the pond?

The rhythm of these two lines is 1/3/1/2, with the emphasis on the passing seasons, enjoying life in each season. The leisurely lifestyle is in tune with nature.

- Bamboo shoots, bamboo, bean sprouts, lotus ponds, and ponds are all symbols of a rural, simple life, rooted in nature. Even though this life may be tough and lacking material wealth, it is a life of serenity, in harmony with nature. Through this simple existence, the poet's noble character shines.

The true joy in this humble life, embraced by the Confucian scholars, is that in troubled times, one with high morals should avoid the mundane struggles and seek peace in nature, accepting poverty, living harmoniously with the world while maintaining a pure and noble spirit.

Question 4 (Page 129, Literature Textbook 10, Volume 1)

With the allusion in the last two lines, what do you perceive about the character of Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm?

Detailed Answer:

- The allusion to Thuần Vu in the final two lines of the poem reveals the poet's philosophical view of life: to live quietly and withdraw from the busy world, keeping one's soul pure. The line 'wealth and nobility are like a dream' suggests that material wealth is fleeting and insubstantial, like a dream that disappears when one awakens.

- This reflects the Confucian philosophy: prosperity and decline are natural cycles in the universe. Confucian scholars, understanding the will of Heaven, know when to serve in government and when to retreat. In both cases, they hold themselves in high regard, seeking to preserve their inner purity and not allowing the mundane world to corrupt them.

=> The final two lines clearly portray Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm as a noble and pure scholar.

Question 5 (Page 130, Literature Textbook 10, Volume 1)

What is Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm's view on the 'leisurely' life?

Detailed Answer:

- Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm's view on 'leisure' is not about avoiding hard work or shirking responsibilities. It is not about indulging in personal pleasures or ignoring society.

- For Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm, 'leisure' means living in harmony with nature, following the natural order; it is about distancing oneself from fame, power, and material wealth in order to maintain a pure spirit.

- The true essence of Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm's 'leisure' is physical ease without mental relaxation. His leisure still involves contemplation on matters of state and life. The poet uses the metaphor 'When the wine reaches the tree, I will drink, and see that wealth is like a dream.'

=> Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm's philosophy of leisure contains many positive aspects, contrasting with the selfish approach of 'only caring for oneself.'

Practice

Question (Page 130, Literature Textbook 10, Volume 1)

What is your overall impression of Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm's life and character as depicted in the poem 'Leisure'?

Detailed Answer:

Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm (1549 - 1585) witnessed the injustices and corruption of the Vietnamese feudal court.

- He was an honest man who once submitted a petition to execute corrupt officials, but the king did not listen, so he resigned and returned to his village with the philosophy: A day of leisure is a day of being like a sage.

- His thoughts and philosophy align with Confucianism, focusing on living in harmony with nature, preserving purity of heart in turbulent times.

- Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm's character is noble and pure.

'Leisure' is a central theme in his poetry, reflecting his belief in living naturally, free from fame and fortune, and expressing his unique life philosophy.

- His life as depicted in the poem 'Leisure' is simple, modest, but noble and pure.

+ Joyful with work, simple and rustic.

+ Unaffected by others, living freely, with dignity.

- Everyday images in the poet's life:

In autumn, eating bamboo shoots, in winter eating sprouts,

In spring, bathing in the lotus pond, in summer bathing in the pond

+ A life harmonizing with nature, refined in the simplicity of daily routines.

+ The poet's pleasure and serenity are deeply inspiring.

- The two lines clearly reflect the poet's 'leisurely' mood:

+ The use of contrast: we <-> others, wise <-> foolish, quiet <-> noisy.

+ A great mind's reflection on avoiding the court's intrigues.

+ The irony in the lines and their clever, subtle meanings.

- The final two lines convey an attitude of serenity, viewing material wealth with disdain.

+ The use of the allusion to Emperor Yao and Shun illustrates the poet's sharp perception. Wealth is transient, illusory, like a dream.

=> The poem is a profound reflection on a leisurely life, one that is in harmony with nature and detached from material concerns.

Answer to Question 1, page 129, Literature 10 Textbook, Volume 1

- The use of numerals (explicit counting: one...one...one) and nouns (hoe, shovel, fishing rod) in the first sentence indicates that the poet is thoroughly prepared, ready with all the necessary tools to enjoy his peaceful leisure.

- The rhythm of the first two lines is 2/2/3, evoking a light, relaxed, carefree mindset of a person at ease with their life.

=> The first two lines suggest a simple, unpretentious rural life, like a farmer content with his life, radiating happiness and tranquility, much like Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm's own state of mind.

Answer to Question 2, page 129, Literature 10 Textbook, Volume 1

- A quiet, secluded place is a peaceful retreat for the soul, a serene, simple countryside free from the hustle, deception, and corruption. In contrast, a noisy, chaotic environment represents the bustling urban life, full of competition and deceit for personal gain.

- Through the poet's ironic and playful language, we understand that being foolish means competing fiercely for fame and fortune, while wisdom lies in turning away from such pursuits to find inner peace in nature.

- The use of opposites and ironic speech in lines 3 and 4 adds an interesting, impactful dimension to the poet's perspective on wisdom and folly, as he stands above the worldly chase for fame and fortune, offering a clear, insightful view of life.

Answer to Question 3, page 129, Literature 10 Textbook, Volume 1

- Seasonal rural products like bamboo shoots and bean sprouts, and the simple activities of bathing in lotus ponds in spring and swimming in ponds in summer, all depict a simple, pure, and harmonious life in tune with nature.

- Lines 5 and 6 utilize opposites and portray the humble, rustic lifestyle, forming a balanced picture of life in the countryside, rich in sensory experiences.

Answer to Question 4, page 130, Literature 10 Textbook, Volume 1

- The last two lines refer to a classical allusion about the dream of Thuần Vu Phần.

- Through this allusion, the poet expresses his wise view, stating that wealth and status are merely fleeting dreams.

=> The poet embodies a pure, noble character, far beyond worldly concerns.

Answer to Question 5, page 130, Literature 10 Textbook, Volume 1

- Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm's philosophy of a simple life emphasizes distancing oneself from the material world to maintain a pure and noble essence, living harmoniously with nature.

- This positive outlook encourages people to lead virtuous, wise lives, transcending the trivial pursuit of wealth and fame.

Practice Exercise

Question (page 130, Literature 10 Textbook, Volume 1)

Introduction:

- Introduce the author Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm

- Introduce the work 'Nhàn'

- Introduce the topic

Body:

- Context of creation

1. The first two lines: Depicting the simple, rural lifestyle.

- Listing: hoe, shovel, fishing rod => symbols of simple, humble labor.

- Repetition of the word “one” (3 times) => the readiness for work.

=> The image of a farmer with familiar, humble tools symbolizes a straightforward life.

- “Leisurely” suggests a state of calm, an untroubled, carefree mind, unburdened by worries, fame, or fortune.

=> The poet’s life when retreating to the countryside: calm, serene, connected to simple, humble tools of labor.

- The idea of leisure: tranquil, self-sufficient, simple.

2. The main body: The poet's view on living a “simple” life

- “A quiet place” and “a noisy place” carry symbolic meanings.

+ “Finding a quiet place” doesn’t imply avoiding life, but seeking a place of peace to live comfortably and simply.

+ “Noisy places” represent the competitive world, filled with deceit and ambition.

- The poet’s self-description as foolish, while others are wise => This paradoxical statement carries wit, hinting that those who pursue fame and fortune are the true fools, while true wisdom lies in simplicity.

+ The rhetorical device of paradox: “we are foolish, and others are wise.”

+ The metaphor: a life bound with nature, a simple and pure existence.

=> Expressing the poet's attitude and way of life, tinged with humor and critique of others.

=> A pure character, avoiding worldly complications and a life of competition.

3. The third section: The pure, noble life in the countryside.

- Bamboo shoots in autumn, bean sprouts in winter => Simple, rustic foods, nourishing yet unpretentious.

- Bathing in lotus ponds in spring, swimming in ponds in summer => Enjoying refined, simple pleasures.

=> The countryside life is plain, frugal, but filled with nobility.

4. The conclusion: The truth about life.

- Wealth is just a fleeting dream, an illusion.

- A dismissive attitude toward wealth and status.

=> A noble worldview from a wise person, a great soul.

=> The lesson on how to live: People should embrace a peaceful, loving life, valuing simplicity, nobility, and integrity, while criticizing excessive luxury and the chase for personal gain.

Conclusion:

- Summarize the thematic and artistic value of the work.

Structure

- The first six lines describe the author's lifestyle and their concept of "leisure".

- The final two lines offer reflections on life.

Question 1 (Page 129, Vietnamese Literature 10, Volume 1)

The rhythm of the verse suggests calmness and leisure:

One hoe/ one shovel,/ one fishing rod (2/2/3)

Wandering around, without any worries or pleasures (4/3)

- A peaceful state of mind amidst daily labor.

- A modest and refined life showing the poet's desire to live humbly and simply.

Question 2 (Page 129, Vietnamese Literature 10, Volume 1)

Uses the technique of contrast: foolish <-> wise, quiet <-> busy, I <-> others

- The author's life view is slightly sarcastic and proud:

+ The poet humorously calls himself "foolish", but this is the foolishness of a great mind, actually the opposite, "wise".

+ He is humble and not boastful, reflecting the wisdom of a true scholar.

- Quiet: not escaping from life, but finding peace and harmony with nature, away from the turmoil of court life to maintain a pure character.

- Busy: refers to the hustle and bustle of the royal court, which is full of conflict and scheming.

→ The contrasting elements highlight the poet's philosophy of living a life free of materialism, seeking inner peace and serenity.

Question 3 (Page 129, Vietnamese Literature 10, Volume 1)

Simple yet noble scenery blending with the natural world:

Autumn eats bamboo shoots, winter eats bean sprouts

Spring baths in the lotus pond, summer baths in the pond

Verse rhythm: 1/3/1/2 evokes the author's lifestyle through the seasons, illustrating how leisure involves blending with nature.

+ Each season has its own characteristic: autumn - bamboo, winter - bean sprouts, spring - lotus pond, summer - pond.

+ Daily life is intimately connected with the simple yet noble life in the countryside.

+ The author finds joy and contentment by syncing with nature.

→ The tranquility and leisure in this lifestyle shine a light on the poet's character, embodying the ideal of a noble person with integrity.

- The serene, isolated existence reflects the Confucian ideal: in times of turmoil, a true person of virtue avoids the chaos of the world and seeks peaceful solitude.

The enjoyment of living in harmony with nature and the universe while maintaining a pure and noble character.

Question 4 (Page 130, Vietnamese Literature 10, Volume 1)

The reference to King Thuần Vu expresses the author's philosophical perspective, a learned scholar who once navigated the treacherous world of the court.

- The poet aims to preserve purity and clarity of mind, seeing wealth and glory as mere illusions.

- The rise and fall of prosperity are natural cycles in the universe, the dynasty, and the nation, which is why true Confucians remain aware of their intrinsic worth and aim to keep their hearts and minds unsullied by the world's temptations.

- The final two lines demonstrate Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm's pure, incorruptible character as a noble scholar.

Question 5 (Page 130, Vietnamese Literature 10, Volume 1)

Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm's philosophy of leisure is not about abandoning worldly affairs, but rather about withdrawing from material pursuits to live in harmony with nature while maintaining a noble character.

+ He lives in harmony with nature, follows the natural order, and distances himself from fame and wealth to preserve his noble essence.

+ He still concerns himself with the well-being of his country and people, often taking direct action (e.g., submitting petitions to the king to punish corrupt officials).

+ His philosophy of leisure includes a deep sense of responsibility toward society, differentiating his perspective from the idea of "selfish tranquility".

Practice

Exercise 1 (Page 130, Vietnamese Literature 10, Volume 1)

Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm (1549 - 1585) witnessed the injustices of the feudal Vietnamese court.

- He was an upright man, who once submitted a petition to execute corrupt officials, but when the king refused, he retired to his village with the philosophy: One day of leisure is worth one day of immortality.

- His thoughts and philosophy are rooted in Confucian teachings, advocating for a life of harmony with nature and spiritual purity.

- Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm's character is noble and incorruptible.

Leisure is a central theme in Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm's poetry, where his idea of leisure represents a natural, detached existence, free from the pursuit of fame and material wealth.

- Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm's life, as depicted in his poem, was simple, modest, yet pure and noble.

+ He found joy in labor, in a simple, unpretentious lifestyle.

+ He remained above envy, indifferent to worldly affairs, yet confident in his own path.

- His poetry features rural, everyday images that reflect the author's lifestyle:

Autumn eats bamboo shoots, winter eats bean sprouts,

Spring baths in the lotus pond, summer baths in the pond

+ His life was one with nature, marked by simplicity and purity in his food and daily activities.

+ The joy and contentment that he derived from this lifestyle is truly remarkable.

- The second verse clearly conveys the poet's serene mindset and his "leisurely" way of life:

+ The use of contrast: I <-> others, wise <-> foolish, quiet <-> busy.

+ It reflects the thoughts of a learned man, avoiding the politics of the royal court.

+ The irony in the verses expresses a witty, profound perspective.

- The final lines convey the poet's calm, detached attitude, dismissing the importance of wealth.

+ The reference to the story of King Nghiêu Thuấn demonstrates the poet's keen insight. Wealth is fleeting, an illusion like a dream.

→ The poem is a deep, thoughtful reflection on the concept of leisure, living harmoniously with nature, maintaining integrity, and disregarding worldly pursuits.

I. Guidelines for preparing the lesson

Question 1 (page 129, Literature 10, Volume 1 textbook):

- The usage of numbers and nouns in the first line:

+ The numeral "one" is repeated three times: symbolizing the readiness for labor.

+ Nouns: mai, cuốc, cần => representing a simple life of labor.

=> The image of a farmer connected to simple, familiar tools of work.

- The rhythm of the first two lines:

+ The first line has a rhythm split 2/2/3

+ The second line has a rhythm split: 4/3

=> More creative compared to the strict rules of traditional poetry. The rhythm reflects the relaxed, free-spirited mood of the lyrical subject.

- The poet's life when retiring to the countryside: calm, peaceful, connected to simple and familiar tools of labor.

Question 2 (page 129, Literature 10, Volume 1 textbook):

- The "desolate" place symbolizes the tranquil nature, a place where the soul can rest.

- The "bustling" place refers to the urban life, power struggles, and the pursuit of fame and fortune.

- The poet's view on wisdom vs. foolishness:

+ The word "foolish" is used by the poet to describe himself, yet it turns out to be "not foolish" because in times of oppression by corrupt authorities, withdrawing from this environment is the wise choice.

+ The word "wise" used to describe others turns out to be "not wise": in a chaotic society, people lose their dignity, constantly fighting to attain fame, becoming as corrupt as the others.

=> The poet admits to being foolish, while calling others wise.

=> The use of irony conveys a sense of wit and sarcasm. To him, wisdom and foolishness can be reversed.

- The artistic contrast in lines 3 and 4:

+ Wise <> Foolish

+ Tranquil place <> Bustling place

=> A virtuous character, avoiding worldly distractions and the rat race for success.

=> Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm's worldview stems from profound wisdom and noble character.

Question 3 (page 129, Literature 10, Volume 1 textbook):

- The natural products and living scenes in lines 5 and 6:

+ The products: eating bamboo shoots in autumn, eating bean sprouts in winter => Simple, plain dishes, but not harsh.

- Living scenes: bathing in lotus ponds in spring, bathing in ponds in summer => Elegant and modest pleasures.

=> A simple, humble yet elevated life in the countryside. A harmonious bond between people and nature.

- Artistic values:

+ Simple, sincere, and heartfelt images.

+ Rhythm: 1/3/1/2 => Emphasizing the seasons of the year, each season brings its own unique activities.

Question 4 (page 130, Literature 10, Volume 1 textbook):

- The classical reference: Thuần Vu Phần drinking wine under the loquat tree to awaken and realize the truth of life: Wealth and status are but fleeting dreams.

=> An attitude of disdain for wealth and fame.

- The poet asserts that the eternal truths are nature and human character. Denying that material wealth and power are mere illusions. => A noble life philosophy of a person of great intellect and character.

Question 5 (page 130, Literature 10, Volume 1 textbook):

The concept of a carefree life according to Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm: indifferent to wealth. He shuns places of power to maintain his noble essence, living in harmony with nature and simplicity. This lifestyle is free from burdens and struggles.

=> A positive worldview: in a time of turmoil and struggle, the poet seeks to preserve his dignity and tranquility.

II. Practice

General reflections on Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm's life and character through the poem Nhàn:

Suggested outline:

a. Introduction: introduce Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm as the author and the poem Nhàn.

b. Body:

- Discuss the context in which the poem was written.

- Analyze the poem:

1. The opening two lines: A simple rural life of labor.

- Listing: mai, cuốc, cần => simple labor life.

- Repetition of the word "one" (3 times) => a stance ready for work => the image of a farmer with familiar tools.

- "Thơ thẩn" evokes a state of ease, tranquility, and calmness without concerns or ambitions => The poet's life in retirement: peaceful, detached, and connected to simple work tools.

- Concept of a carefree life: relaxed, natural, and simple.

2. The next two lines: The poet's view on wisdom vs. foolishness.

- "The desolate place" and "The bustling place" carry symbolic meanings.

+ "Seeking a desolate place" does not mean avoiding life but finding a place to enjoy a calm, carefree existence.

+ "The bustling place": refers to places of power and greed.

- The poet calls himself foolish and others wise => Irony, a touch of wit, and sarcasm. According to him, wisdom can sometimes be foolishness, and foolishness can be wisdom.

+ The rhetorical device of reversal: "I am foolish, others are wise".

+ The metaphor: A lifestyle connected to nature, a humble way of living. => Expresses the poet's attitude and life principle with a touch of mockery towards others.

=> A virtuous life, away from the world's hustle.

3. The third two lines: A simple and elevated rural life.

- Bamboo shoots in autumn, bean sprouts in winter => Simple but nourishing dishes, not poor.

- Bathing in lotus ponds in spring, ponds in summer => Elegant and modest pleasures.

=> A life that is humble yet elevated.

4. The last two lines: The truth about life.

- Wealth is but a fleeting illusion.

- A disregard for wealth and fame. => The philosopher’s view of a noble, superior life.

=> A lesson on living: People should live peacefully, love one another, and cherish simplicity, dignity, and noble character, while criticizing materialism and the pursuit of fame.

c. Conclusion: The poem reflects the poet’s philosophy of "carefree living" and a deep love for nature.

Instructions for Writing the Essay

Structure

- The first six lines: The author's peaceful and simple life.

- The last two lines: Reflection on life.

Question 1 (page 129, Vietnamese Literature 10, Volume 1): The usage of numerals and nouns in the first line of the poem and the rhythm of the first two lines have some interesting aspects:

+ The repeated numeral “one… one… one…” shows the author's active engagement with life.

+ The rhythm 2/2/3 creates a relaxed, tranquil atmosphere.

+ The word “anyone” in the second line indicates that, despite the pleasures of others, the author is content with his rural life.

- These two lines portray the author's relaxed life in the countryside. He is content with his self-sufficient life, yet the lines also express a rebellious attitude towards societal norms. This rebelliousness is humble, unpretentious, and rooted in nature.

Question 2 (page 129, Vietnamese Literature 10, Volume 1): Understanding “remote place” and “noisy place”:

+ “Remote place”: a place where no one depends on you, and you don’t depend on anyone; it represents the tranquility of nature and peace of mind.

+ “Noisy place”: the court, the political world; a place filled with sophistication, competition, maneuvering, and manipulation.

- The author’s view on “foolishness” and “wisdom”: The author admits that he is “foolish,” choosing to live away from the noise of society, leaving the “wise” to pursue the chaotic world. Through his life experiences, he understands the futile competition for fame and wealth and thus distances himself from the “noisy place.” Though he calls himself “foolish,” in reality, he is wise. This is similar to those who chase fame and wealth, thinking themselves “wise,” but are truly “foolish.”

- The effect of contrast in the third and fourth lines of the poem: it creates a comparison between two life philosophies, confirming the author’s own philosophy of life.

Question 3 (page 129, Vietnamese Literature 10, Volume 1): The rural products and lifestyle depicted in lines 5 and 6 have notable elements:

+ Simple, rural food: bamboo shoots, bean sprouts.

+ Daily activities: enjoying a bath in a pond or lake like any other rural person.

+ These two lines form a vivid scene of rural life, with the four seasons—spring, summer, fall, winter—each having its own flavors and scents.

- These lines reveal Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm’s modest yet noble life. The simplicity of his meals, harvested from the garden, reflects his self-reliance. His lifestyle, aligned with the rhythms of nature, is neither heavy nor depressing, but instead serene and pure.

Question 4 (page 130, Vietnamese Literature 10, Volume 1):

The last two lines of the poem illustrate Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm’s intellectual beauty. With his insightful perspective, he chooses to “drunk” to “awaken.” The image of an old man sitting alone by a tree, drinking wine, appears relaxed but “isolated.” After many years in the court, he realizes that fame, wealth, and power are fleeting dreams. This insight reveals a great personality and intellect.

Question 5 (page 130, Vietnamese Literature 10, Volume 1):

Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm’s philosophy of life: living harmoniously with nature and avoiding places of power, in order to maintain a noble character. For him, a simple life doesn’t mean ignoring society or being detached from it. Instead, it means withdrawing from the race for fame and wealth, living in harmony with nature. While this lifestyle may be challenging, it brings inner peace and preserves his purity of soul.

Practice

The beauty of Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm’s life and soul through the poem "Nhàn"

Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm was an intellectually profound individual and a great poet of the nation. His poetry deeply reflects philosophical teachings, praises the spirit of the scholar, the joy of simplicity, and critiques social life. “Bạch Vân quốc âm thi tập” is one of his representative works, with “Nhàn” being one of the most iconic poems in this collection. The poem expresses the beauty of the poet’s life and soul.

Using simple words, the poet writes:

“One hoe, one rake, one fishing rod

Wandering, regardless of anyone’s pleasures”

The opening two lines introduce simple tools used by rural people, creating the image of an elderly farmer enjoying a peaceful life. The lines bring us back to a simpler time, where life was basic and unpretentious, with the rhythm echoing the speaker’s leisurely pace: one... one... one... All of this creates an image of rural tranquility, where the speaker finds joy in his simple, undisturbed pleasures, regardless of what others might be enjoying.

The next two lines continue with images of rustic food and everyday activities, expressing a life in harmony with nature:

“In autumn, eating bamboo shoots, in winter eating bean sprouts,”

“In spring, bathing in lotus ponds, in summer, bathing in ponds.”

These simple words and everyday imagery reflect an utterly modest lifestyle. The seasonal foods—bamboo shoots in autumn, bean sprouts in winter—highlight a life free from luxury, where even pleasures are unpretentious. The daily activities, such as bathing in lotus ponds or lakes, embody a life immersed in nature. Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm’s life seems far removed from the grandeur of a high-ranking official. It is a life of purity, both in the way he eats and lives, as well as in his love for nature.

Beyond his lifestyle, Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm reveals the beauty of his soul and character through his reflections on “foolishness” and “wisdom”:

“I am foolish, I seek a remote place,”

“The wise seek noisy places.”

The author’s view on “foolishness” and “wisdom” is quite unique. He, the “foolish” one, seeks the peaceful countryside, while the “wise” venture into the noise and chaos of the court. After years spent in the royal court, Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm realizes the hidden truths of this world. His retreat to nature is an escape from the cycle of fame and wealth, away from the noise and competition. To recognize what is truly wise, one must experience life’s challenges, as only those who have lived through the struggles of power and wealth can discern the difference between the “foolish” and the “wise.”

The poem concludes with two lines that convey a relaxed, peaceful attitude:

“When the wine reaches the tree, I will drink it,”

“Looking at wealth, it is but a fleeting dream.”

These final two lines add the finishing touch to the portrait of a simple, tranquil life. Here, the speaker, sitting beneath a tree with a cup of wine, reflects on life’s fleeting nature. In this peaceful existence, there are still questions and struggles. The speaker longs to contribute to government affairs but is powerless in the face of political reality. Ultimately, one realizes that wealth and power are merely dreams, and it is those who have distanced themselves from the court who appreciate the true value of a simple, rustic life.

This poem not only paints a picture of rural life with its simple foods and activities but also portrays the personality of a man who has fully integrated into the natural world, embodying the beauty of both his life and his soul.