Sharing a piece of Vietnam
Horses run with herds, birds fly with friends.
This is advising people to befriend others. This is similar to English poet John Donne’s “No man is an island, entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main” (i.e., people are not meant to be alone).
When entering a house, follow the rules, when entering the river, follow the bends.
This is advising people to follow the local customs when in a different place. This is equivalent to “When in Rome, do as the Romans do” (i.e., adapting to local customs).
Buffaloes search for buffaloes, horses search for horses.
This is describing how one gathers to its own kind. This is similar to “Birds of a feather flock together,” (i.e., similar people will be found together).
Pots of a kind, cover with lids of the same.
This is describing how husbands and wives should match each other. This is similar to “Every Jack has his Jill,” (i.e., every man will find his partner) and “Birds of a feather flock together,” (i.e., similar people will be found together).
Jumping only when water reaches one’s feet.
This is criticizing someone for acting when it is too late (i.e., water already flooded). This is equivalent to “A day late and a dollar short” (i.e., not paying on time and in full) and “Too little, too late.”
Throwing stone, hiding hand.
This is describing someone who starts trouble and covers up own involvement. This is similar to “playing innocent” (i.e., acting as if one is not involved).
Vietnamese Poems Translated 