1When we renounce learning we have no troubles.
2The (ready) 'yes,' and (flattering) 'yea;'-- Small is the difference they display.
3But mark their issues, good and ill;-- What space the gulf between shall fill?
4What all men fear is indeed to be feared; but how wide and without end is the range of questions (asking to be discussed)!
5The multitude of men look satisfied and pleased; as if enjoying a full banquet, as if mounted on a tower in spring.
6I alone seem listless and still, my desires having as yet given no indication of their presence.
7I am like an infant which has not yet smiled.
8I look dejected and forlorn, as if I had no home to go to.
9The multitude of men all have enough and to spare.
10I alone seem to have lost everything.
11My mind is that of a stupid man; I am in a state of chaos.
12Ordinary men look bright and intelligent, while I alone seem to be benighted.
13They look full of discrimination, while I alone am dull and confused.
14I seem to be carried about as on the sea, drifting as if I had nowhere to rest.
15All men have their spheres of action, while I alone seem dull and incapable, like a rude borderer.
16(Thus) I alone am different from other men, but I value the nursing-mother (the Tao).