The study of Su Tungpo's life is, therefore, at the same time a study of national degeneration through party strife, ending in the sapping of national strength and the triumphant misrule of the petty politicians.

研究苏记，同时也就是研究宋朝因朋党之争而衰，终于导致国力耗竭，小人当政。

For they have gone up to Assyria like a wild donkey wandering alone. Ephraim has sold herself to lovers.

们投奔亚述，如同独行的野驴。以法莲贿买朋党。