A ship made from a hare's horn sailed into a mirage.
This couplet paints a vivid picture of the impossible. It speaks of building a ship from a rabbit's horn – something that simply doesn't exist – and then trying to sail it in a mirage, an illusion of water. Essentially, it highlights the futility of chasing things that are not real or attempting tasks that are utterly impossible. It’s a beautiful way to say that some endeavors are bound to fail because they are based on a complete fantasy. It reminds us not to waste our energy on illusions, but to focus on what's tangible and achievable.
Interpretation note: meanings and explanations may be AI-assisted and should not replace a primary text or scholarly edition. See the editorial policy.
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