태산이 높다 한들 (Climbing the Mountain Beneath the Sky)

Korean Poetry and Sijo

Discover the beauty of Korean poetic forms and their timeless messages.

Korean Text

태산이 높다 하되 하늘 아래 뫼이로다.

오르고 또 오르면 못 오를 리 없건마는

사람이 제 아니 오르고 뫼만 높다 하더라.

English Translation

Though the Taesan is said to be high, it is still a mountain under the sky.

If you climb and climb, there's no reason you can't reach the top.

People say the mountain is high without trying to climb it themselves.

About Sijo

Sijo is a traditional Korean poetic form consisting of three lines. Each line presents a theme, elaborates on it, and concludes with a philosophical insight or twist. This particular sijo uses the metaphor of a mountain to explore perseverance and human effort.

Analysis of Yang Sa-eon's Poem

Understanding the values of perseverance and humility in Korean poetry.

Analysis and Significance

Yang Sa-eon (1517–1584), a distinguished civil official and master calligrapher of the Joseon Dynasty, uses the mountain as a metaphor for life's challenges. This poem beautifully encapsulates the values of perseverance, humility, and action.

Poem Breakdown:

1. "Though the Taesan is said to be high, it is still a mountain under the sky."
   This line highlights the perspective that no challenge is insurmountable when viewed within the grander context of life.
   
2. "If you climb and climb, there's no reason you can't reach the top."
   Effort and persistence are key to overcoming difficulties. The message encourages action rather than hesitation.
   
3. "People say the mountain is high without trying to climb it themselves."
   A critique of those who pass judgment or complain about obstacles without attempting to overcome them.
   

Relevance in Joseon Society:

This poem reflects Confucian ideals of diligence, humility, and self-discipline—key principles of Joseon-era governance and education. The mountain symbolizes challenges, and the poem emphasizes that they are manageable with effort and the right mindset.

Modern Relevance:

The poem remains timeless, serving as a motivational reminder that challenges, no matter how daunting, are surmountable with effort. It inspires resilience and purpose, making it a cherished piece of Korean literary heritage.