The Way You Are (Ceng Jing de Ni)

Xu Wei's song 'The Way You Are (Ceng Jing de Ni)' is a poignant reflection on the journey of life, capturing the essence of youthful dreams, love, and the inevitable challenges that come with growing up. The lyrics begin with a nostalgic look back at youthful ambitions and the desire to explore the world ('céng mèng xiǎng zhàng jiàn zǒu tiān yá / kàn yi kàn shì jiè de fán huá'). This sense of youthful exuberance is contrasted with the present reality, where the protagonist has settled into a more grounded existence ('rú jīn nǐ sì hǎi wéi jiā') and reflects on past relationships and the fleeting nature of love ('céng ràng nǐ xīn téng de gū niang / rú jīn yǐ qiǎo rán wú zōng yǐng')

The recurring 'Di li li li' refrain serves as a musical interlude that underscores the ongoing journey of life, filled with both hardships and moments of brilliance ('zǒu zài yǒng wǎng zhí qián de lù shang / yǒu nán guò yě yǒu jīng cǎi'). This refrain acts as a reminder that life is a continuous path, with its ups and downs, and that each experience contributes to the richness of our existence. The song also touches on the theme of solitude and the comfort found in nature, particularly the sea ('měi yí cì nán guò de shí hou / jiù dú zì kàn yi kàn dà hǎi'), which serves as a metaphor for the vastness and depth of human emotions.

In the final verses, Xu Wei encourages a sense of camaraderie and resilience, urging listeners to toast to life's experiences and to embrace the warmth and authenticity of genuine smiles ('ràng wǒ men gān le zhè bēi jiǔ / hǎo nán ér xiōng huái xiàng dà hǎi / jīng lì le rén shēng bǎi tài shì jiān de léng nuǎn / zhè xiào róng wēn nuǎn chún zhēn'). This celebration of life's journey, with all its trials and triumphs, is a testament to the enduring human spirit and the connections we share with others along the way.