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1. When we renounce learning we have no troubles.
The (ready) 'yes,' and (flattering) 'yea;'—
Small is the difference they display.
But mark their issues, good and ill;—
What space the gulf between shall fill?
What all men fear is indeed to be feared; but how wide and without end is the range of questions
(asking to be discussed)!
2. The multitude of men look satisfied and pleased; as if enjoying a full banquet, as if
mounted on a tower in spring. I alone seem listless and still, my desires having as yet
given no indication of their presence. I am like an infant which has not yet smiled. I look
dejected and forlorn, as if I had no home to go to. The multitude of men all have enough
and to spare. I alone seem to have lost everything. My mind is that of a stupid man; I am
in a state of chaos.
3. Ordinary men look bright and intelligent, while I alone seem to be benighted. They look
full of discrimination, while I alone am dull and confused. I seem to be carried about as
on the sea, drifting as if I had nowhere to rest. All men have their spheres of action,
while I alone seem dull and incapable, like a rude borderer. (Thus) I alone am different
from other men, but I value the nursing-mother (the Tâo). 21
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