The Hegemon King Surrounded
Inauspicious
The poem
Original: 路险马乏人行急 / 失群军卒困相当 / 滩高风浪船棹破 / 日暮花残天降霜
The story
Xiang Yu, the Hegemon King, had never lost a battle and believed himself unbeatable. Han Xin surrounded him at Gaixia with ambushes on ten sides, and the songs of Chu on the night air broke his army's spirit. He cut his way out to the Wu River, where a boat waited to carry him home, but rather than face the elders of Jiangdong he took his own life.
What it means
This is the sign of a wrecked boat in the rapids: obstacles everywhere and nothing to be forced. Every line is an impasse, with no help outside, no retreat inside, and the season itself against you. Do not push for another plan or another breakout. Hold to what you know, stay quiet, and no blame attaches to you. Admitting that a position has failed and limiting the damage matters far more here than looking brave in front of other people.
By area of life
Wealth
Losses are the picture here. Protect what remains and withdraw; nothing further should be put in while conditions look like this.
Love
The attachment cannot last. If a parting is already close, the kinder course for both of you is to let this one go.
Work
The business is weak and the market is low. Guard against closure and make your arrangements early rather than late.
Health
The illness is serious and getting worse. Find a good physician quickly, and prepare for the harder possibilities as well.
Travel
Conditions abroad are poor and the wider environment hostile. Put the idea away for the present and reconsider much later.
Advice
There is still a boat at the river; do not let pride cut off your last way home.