月光光照地堂

By 童謠

Lyrics - Practice Pronunciation
月光光 照地堂

Moonlight, the lighthouse.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

jyut6
gwong1
gwong1
ziu3
deng6
tong4
蝦仔你乖乖瞓落牀

You're lying down, you little bitch.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

haa1
zi2
nei5
gwaai1
gwaai1
fan3
lok6
cong4
聽朝阿媽要趕插秧囉

Listen to your mom, she's got to get up.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

teng1
zyu1
ngo1
maa5
jiu3
gon2
caap3
joeng1
lo4
阿爺睇牛佢上崗

Grandpa watched the cows feed him.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

ngo1
je4
dai6
ngau4
heoi5
soeng6
gong1
蝦仔你快高長大囉

You're growing up fast, you son of a bitch.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

haa1
zi2
nei5
faai3
gou1
zoeng6
taai3
lo4
幫阿爺去睇牛羊

Help your grandfather take care of the cattle.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

bong1
ngo1
je4
heoi3
dai6
ngau4
joeng4
月光光 照地堂

Moonlight, the lighthouse.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

jyut6
gwong1
gwong1
ziu3
deng6
tong4
蝦仔你乖乖瞓落牀

You're lying down, you little bitch.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

haa1
zi2
nei5
gwaai1
gwaai1
fan3
lok6
cong4
聽朝阿爸要捕魚蝦囉

In the morning, Dad goes fishing.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

teng1
zyu1
ngo1
baa1
jiu3
bou6
jyu2
haa1
lo4
阿(女麻)織網要織到天光

A: Weave the web into the sky.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

ngo1
neoi6
maa4
zik1
mong5
jiu3
zik1
dou3
tin1
gwong1
蝦仔你快高長大囉

You're growing up fast, you son of a bitch.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

haa1
zi2
nei5
faai3
gou1
zoeng6
taai3
lo4
划艇撤網就更在行了

Boating is getting better.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

waak6
teng3
cit3
mong5
zau6
gang3
zoi6
hong6
liu4
月光光 照地堂

Moonlight, the lighthouse.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

jyut6
gwong1
gwong1
ziu3
deng6
tong4
年三十晚 摘檳榔

30 years later, the harvest.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

nin4
saam3
sap6
maan5
zaak6
bing2
long4
五穀豐收堆滿倉

The grain storehouses were full.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

ng5
huk6
fung1
sau1
zeoi1
mun6
cong1
老老嫩嫩喜洋洋

The old man is happy.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

lou5
lou5
nyun6
nyun6
hei2
joeng2
joeng2
蝦仔你快啲瞇埋眼囉

You're going to shed tears faster, you son of a bitch.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

haa1
zi2
nei5
faai3
dit1
mai4
maai4
ngaan5
lo4
一覺瞓到大天光

One night in the sunlight.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

jat1
gok3
fan3
dou3
taai3
tin1
gwong1
About This Song

"," performed by , is a heartwarming lullaby that speaks to the deep connections between family, tradition, and nature. The song's central theme revolves around the imagery of a serene night illuminated by the moonlight, where a child, affectionately referred to as "" (little shrimp), is encouraged to sleep peacefully. This nurturing atmosphere is contrasted with the various daily labors undertaken by the family members at dawn, emphasizing a cycle of life that blends rest and hard work. The emotional core of the song lies in its gentle, soothing tone, inviting listeners to feel a sense of safety and warmth typical of family life and childhood joy.

The narrative woven through the song offers a glimpse into the daily life of a rural family. It portrays the simple yet vivid routines undertaken by each family member, from the mother's rice planting to the father's fishing activities. Each verse serves as a reminder of the importance of growthnot just for the child, who is urged to grow strong and help with the family chores, but also for the crops and livestock that sustain their livelihood. This familial bond is portrayed tenderly, as the child is simultaneously a participant in and an observer of these intricate life processes. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia, drawing from shared memories that resonate with many listeners.

Musically, the song is characterized by its simple yet charming melody that enhances the lullaby's purpose, creating a calming effect that makes it suitable for bedtime. The repetitive structure of the verses, paired with vivid imagery, not only makes it easy to remember but also reinforces the nurturing message inherent in the song. Lyrically, the song employs a conversational tone, directly addressing the child, which fosters an intimate connection between the speaker and the listener. The use of playful language, such as calling the child "", adds warmth and affection to the piece, creating a delightful auditory experience.

Culturally, "" holds significant importance in the context of Chinese folklore and parenting practices. As a lullaby, it underscores the values of hard work, unity, and respect for the environment that are integral to many rural communities. The song encapsulates traditions that emphasize communal support and the joys of family life, making it more than just a bedtime tuneit is a celebration of heritage and the cyclical nature of life in the agricultural landscape of China. This classic piece continues to be cherished across generations, serving as a reminder of the bonds that tie families together.

Song Details
Singer:
童謠
Total Lines:
18