
Introduction
As a fan of folk rock, I have always been drawn to songs that have deep and thought-provoking meanings. One such song that has resonated with me is “Chinese Translation” by M. Ward. Released in 2006 as part of his album “Post-War,” this song beautifully explores the themes of self-discovery and the search for answers.
Table of Contents
The Lyrics
“Chinese Translation” begins with the protagonist sailing a wild sea and climbing a tall mountain until he meets an old man beneath a weeping willow tree. With limited time, the old man allows him to ask only three questions. The protagonist asks, “What do you do with the pieces of a broken heart? How can a man like me remain in the light? And if life is really as short as they say, then why is the night so long?”
The second verse ends with the sun going down, and the old man responding to the protagonist by singing a song for him. The bridge of the song reveals that the old man was once a young fool like the protagonist, afraid to do the things he knew he had to do. Through an escapade, he gained wisdom.
The third and fourth verses follow the same pattern as the first two, with the protagonist once again encountering an old man. This time, the old man shares a similar response, but instead of singing a song, he plays it. The lyrics of “Chinese Translation” are cyclical, indicating that the journey towards finding answers is more important than the answers themselves.
The Music Video
The music video for “Chinese Translation” adds another layer of depth to the song. Directed by Joel Trussell and Eric Johnson and animated by Gene Blakefield and Darin Bendall, the visual interpretation creates a whimsical atmosphere that complements the song’s fable-like quality.
The Song’s Meaning
“Chinese Translation” is a commentary on the pursuit of wisdom and how we often question the purpose and meaning of our existence. The protagonist seeks answers to deep existential questions, only to find that the wise men he encounters do not have direct answers. Instead, they share their own experiences and stories, emphasizing the importance of the journey in finding meaning.
M. Ward’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world full of uncertainties, which can often leave us feeling lost and broken-hearted. The repetition of the questions throughout the song reflects the universal nature of these concerns. However, the song suggests that the answers we seek are not easily found and that the real value lies in the process of introspection and self-discovery.
Personal Connection
Listening to “Chinese Translation” takes me back to a time in my life when I was grappling with my own existential questions. I remember feeling a sense of comfort and solace in knowing that I was not alone in my ponderings. The song acted as a reminder that the journey towards finding answers is just as significant as the answers themselves.
Furthermore, the cyclical nature of the song’s lyrics reminded me that life is full of recurring patterns and that we often find ourselves revisiting the same questions and seeking guidance, much like the protagonist in the song. It allowed me to embrace the uncertainty and appreciate the process of self-reflection and growth.
Conclusion
“Chinese Translation” by M. Ward is a captivating song that delves into the complexities of life and the search for meaning. Its introspective lyrics, coupled with the cyclical structure, remind us that the path to finding answers may be long and winding, but it is an essential part of the human experience. So, the next time you find yourself pondering life’s big questions, let “Chinese Translation” serve as a gentle reminder to cherish the journey and seek solace in the pursuit of self-discovery.
Credits
Produced By M. Ward
Written By M. Ward
Vocals: Jim James & M. Ward
Bass: Mike Coykendall
Drums: Rachel Blumberg & Jordan Hudson
Backing Vocals: Jim James & Mike Coykendall
Keyboards: M. Ward
Guitars: M. Ward
Release Date: August 22, 2006
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