世事如棋

By 許冠傑

Lyrics - Practice Pronunciation
倉卒歲月 世事如棋

The whole world is like chess.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

cong1
zeot1
seoi3
jyut6
sai3
si6
jyu4
kei4
每局都光怪陸離

Every game is a fluke.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

mei5
guk6
dou1
gwong1
gwaai3
luk6
lei4
驟晴驟雨 人事天天變

The people changed day by day.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

zau6
ceng4
zau6
jyu6
jan4
si6
tin1
tin1
bin3
有喜亦有悲

There's joy and there's sadness.

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jau6
hei2
jik6
jau6
bei1
恩怨愛恨 世事如棋

Love and hate are like chess.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

jan1
jyun3
oi3
han6
sai3
si6
jyu4
kei4
每局都充滿傳奇

Every game is full of legends.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

mei5
guk6
dou1
cung1
mun6
zyun6
kei4
若顰若笑 難辨心中意

It's hard to tell if you're smiling.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

joek6
pan4
joek6
siu3
no4
bin6
sam1
zung1
ji3
似比幕前做戲

It's like a performance on the big screen.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

ci5
bei3
mok6
cin4
zou6
hei3
苦衷拋萬里

I was so eager to throw away my money.

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fu2
zung1
paau1
maak6
lei5
今天慶幸有知己

It's a pleasure to be here today.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

gam1
tin1
hing3
hang6
jau6
zi3
gei2
捉番盤棋共行樂

We're playing chess together.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

zuk3
pun1
pun2
kei4
gung6
hong6
ngok6
衝破內心藩籬

Breaking through the barriers of the inner world.

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cung3
po3
noi6
sam1
faan4
lei4
張眼遠望 世事如棋

The world is like chess.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

zoeng3
ngaan5
jyun6
mong6
sai3
si6
jyu4
kei4
每局應觀察入微

Each department should look closely.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

mei5
guk6
jing3
gun3
caat3
jap6
mei4
但求共你棋藝相比較

But compare your game skills.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

daan6
kau4
gung6
nei5
kei4
ngai6
soeng2
bei3
gok3
瞭解做人道理

Knowing human rights.

Click each character to hear its pronunciation:

liu5
haai5
zou6
jan4
dou6
lei5
About This Song

The song "" (Life Is Like a Game of Chess), performed by the renowned Hong Kong artist (Sam Hui), captures the intricate dynamics of life's experiences through the metaphor of chess. The main theme revolves around the unpredictability of human relationships and the passage of time, likening them to the strategic and sometimes chaotic nature of a chess game. The lyrics reflect on the dualities of joy and sorrow, illustrating how life is filled with both triumphs and challenges that come in a whimsical and often unexpected manner.

In the narrative, the artist conveys a profound message about the importance of companionship and understanding amidst life's uncertainties. The reference to playing chess with a close friend highlights the value of having someone who can share the burdens and joys of life with us. It emphasizes the need to recognize the inherent strategies and decisions we all face, encouraging listeners to appreciate the nuanced relationships that define our existence. The metaphor of the chessboard serves as a reminder that while we navigate through happiness and despair, having a confidant to share these experiences only enriches our lives.

Musically, the song employs a melodic structure that feels both nostalgic and introspective, complemented by Hui's emotive vocal delivery. Notable elements include soft harmonies and rhythmic variations that reflect the shifting moods described in the lyrics. Lyrically, the contrast between light-hearted observations and serious reflections adds depth, engaging listeners on multiple levels as they ponder their own life's game. The clever use of metaphors surrounding chess enriches the text, allowing for multifaceted interpretations while inviting listeners into an intimate dialogue about their personal experiences.

Culturally, "" resonates deeply with the Chinese concept of fate and relationships. Chess, a game steeped in strategy and foresight, parallels many cultural beliefs about life's journey, where one must carefully consider each move. The song's exploration of friendship and the unpredictability of life speaks to a universal truth that transcends cultural boundaries, making it relatable to a wide audience. This blend of personal reflection and broader themes attests to the timeless nature of Hui's music and its cultural impact within the evolving landscape of Hong Kong's entertainment industry.

Song Details
Singer:
許冠傑
Total Lines:
16