The Backward Glance by Zhu Ziqing: English Translation

'The Backward Glance' by Zhu Ziqing Translated by [Translator's name]

In my childhood, my father was a frail man who always looked weary. I remember the day when he took me to school for the first time. We walked for a while, and then he suddenly turned back to see if his footsteps had left any traces on the dusty road. He appeared to be lost in thought, and I did not dare to disturb him.

As we continued our journey, I noticed that his steps became slower and slower, until finally, we arrived at the school gate.

'Father, why did you stop and look back just now?' I asked.

'My son, everything we do in life leaves behind a trace,' he replied. 'I was just thinking that one day, you will grow up and leave home to pursue your own dreams. When that day comes, I hope that you will always remember where you came from and the people who love you.'

I did not fully understand my father's words then, but as time went on, I began to realize their profound meaning. Now, every time I think of my childhood, I also remember the back of my father, who stood there silently, watching me as I walked away.

Full Translation of 'The Backward Glance':

In my childhood, my father was a frail man who always looked weary. I remember the day when he took me to school for the first time. We walked for a while, and then he suddenly turned back to see if his footsteps had left any traces on the dusty road. He appeared to be lost in thought, and I did not dare to disturb him.

As we continued our journey, I noticed that his steps became slower and slower, until finally, we arrived at the school gate.

'Father, why did you stop and look back just now?' I asked.

'My son, everything we do in life leaves behind a trace,' he replied. 'I was just thinking that one day, you will grow up and leave home to pursue your own dreams. When that day comes, I hope that you will always remember where you came from and the people who love you.'

I did not fully understand my father's words then, but as time went on, I began to realize their profound meaning. Now, every time I think of my childhood, I also remember the back of my father, who stood there silently, watching me walk away.