Yuan Dynasty
哨遍·赠长春宫雪庵学士（节选）
王伯成
莫苦求，休强揽。
莫教邂逅遭坑陷。
恐哉笞杖徒流绞，
慎矣公侯伯子男。
争夸炫，
千钟美禄，
一品高衔？
Translation
Do not strain after things; do not force yourself to take them on. Do not let a careless encounter lead you into a pitfall. Flogging, beating, penal servitude, exile, strangulation—each punishment is fearful. Even those who hold noble ranks must remain cautious. Why boast of rich stipends and the highest titles?
Analysis
This excerpt is essentially admonitory rather than lyrical. It warns against overreaching, ambition, and the vanity of official rank. The opening commands—do not seek too hard, do not forcefully take things on—immediately restrain worldly desire. The list of punishments exposes the danger behind power: high office brings not only honor but also peril and accountability. The final question about rich stipends and high titles turns worldly glory into something hollow. The power of the piece lies in its directness, moral sharpness, and worldly sobriety.