Snow weighs down the winter clouds, white fluff takes flight;
Only heroes dare to drive away tigers and leopards.
A myriad blossoms wither, their numbers swiftly thin;
No true champions fear bears or wild boars.
Above, vast skies churn with icy currents swift;
Plum blossoms rejoice as snow fills the heavens;
Beneath, a gentle warmth begins to stir the earth.
To freeze to death—what marvel is there in that for flies?

[Commentary]
In the winter of 1962, China had just emerged from three years of severe famine, while abroad an anti-China uproar was raging. On the surface, it seemed a time of hardship, a veritable deep winter. It is hardly surprising that the weak could not endure such stern trials; yet the genuine revolutionaries grew all the more spirited and resolute. If winter has come, can spring be far behind? Such is the poem’s intent.

[Notes]
(1) Snow weighs down the winter clouds: Literally “winter clouds press down on the snow,” describing a scene of heavy snowfall beneath low-hanging clouds.
(2) Warm air: Refers to geothermal heat.
(3) Pi: A large brown bear.
(4) To freeze to death…: Expresses contempt for those who cannot withstand the test.

[Appreciation]
Employing the techniques of metaphor and evocation, the poet uses the winter setting to express inner feelings. By vividly portraying winter, the poem reveals universal truths. The image of winter in the poem embodies the poet’s outlook and emotions, has been personified, and carries social significance.