******The following is my first attempt at translation. I will periodically update this page as I comb through Laozi. This is a first attempt, rampant with loose interpretation and utterly unrefined, intentionally crafted for poet intent; however, I'm still quite proud of the current result. I've chosen to translate "道" as "nature." I'm sure Spinoza would be proud.
Order 1
A recognisable nature, be not the lasting nature.
A known name, be not a true name.
Of the beginning, heaven and earth were without name.
Have only name under the mother of all matter.
Invariably without desire, one may view the sublime;
By means of desire, venture past the boundary.
Though these be the same, the given names differ.
The sameness is the profound,
Mysteries within mysteries,
The sublime entrance to multiplicity.
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