Rhyme of Lotus Pond - Li Guosheng's Lotus Photography Collection

Author: Li Guosheng
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-06-01
Features: The lotus is a perennial aquatic plant. It sprouts stems and leaves in spring, blooms profusely in midsummer, bears lotus seeds in autumn, and enters dormancy in winter. Lotus cultivation is widespread in China, and wild varieties are also abundant. The saying "Four hundred lotuses, three hundred willows" refers to the flourishing lotus cultivation in Jinan. Many southern water towns and regions, such as Wu County in Suzhou, Sanwei in Guangdong, and Baiyangdian in Hebei, have a long history of lotus cultivation. Even in the northern regions beyond the Great Wall, lotuses are grown. The widespread cultivation of lotuses has fostered the development of lotus culture. In his prose "On Loving the Lotus," the Song Dynasty philosopher Zhou Dunyi, in just 119 characters, masterfully captures the lotus's noble and refined natural ecology as well as the author's deep affection for it, creating a moving and resonant piece. Countless poems, songs, and literary works praising the lotus have been written throughout history. The vibrant colors and elegant demeanor of the lotus have deeply permeated people's spiritual world, shaping the moral character and cultural ethos of the Chinese people. The lotus is regarded as the "gentleman of flowers," embodying purity, holiness, and elegance, and has become an important part of traditional Chinese culture. Lotus culture encompasses various fields, including art and culture, local customs, religious beliefs, food and medicine, and architectural decoration. In modern and contemporary times, lotus culture has also experienced unprecedented development. The new leaves and buds of the lotus are strong and upright, like sharp swords piercing through obstacles to emerge. How resilient is the power of life! The vibrant and diverse lotus is about to bloom, full of grace and beauty.