Huangzhou Canal Ancient Poetry Selection and Review

Author: Wang Guoping
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-05-01
Features: Hangzhou
Jiang Shiquan
Bridge shadows stretch, pressing water hangs,
Fengshan Gate small, linked to the city's edge①.
A scholar with sword on his back,
Still checking winter clothes, demanding tax money.
Author Bio
Jiang Shiquan (1725—1784), styled Xinru, also known as Shousheng, styled Zangyuan and Qingrong Jushi, was from Qianshan (now Qianshan, Jiangxi). In the 22nd year of the Qianlong era (1757), he passed the imperial examination and served as a compiler in the Hanlin Academy. He excelled in poetry, prose, and dramatic works. For his outstanding poetry, he was known as one of the "Three Great Masters of Jiangxi" alongside Yuan Mei and Zhao Ji.
Annotations
① Linked: Combined. Tang Du Nianhe's poem "Mountain Recluse" reads:
"Sometimes picking wild greens with roots,
Quickly chopping firewood with leaves."
Reviews
Fengshan Gate in Hangzhou has changed its name several times in history. The name Fengshan Gate originated in the early Ming Dynasty and was also called Zhengyang Gate. Inside the gate belonged to Qiantang County, while outside belonged to Renhe County. Although titled "Hangzhou," the poem actually describes the author's experience traveling out of Hangzhou's Fengshan Gate in winter. The first line depicts the impression of Hangzhou: numerous bridges over the river. Following the Grand River (now the Zhonghe River in Hangzhou), the author passed under one bridge after another, witnessing the shadows of bridge arches pressing water, forming countless reflections. The second line mentions the small size of Fengshan Gate and its remote geographical location. The third and fourth lines describe the greed of the gatekeepers and tax collectors, who searched the clothes of scholars like the author—carrying only a book and a sword and with nothing else—to demand taxes. The words reveal deep resentment and dissatisfaction. For comparison, Shu Wei's poem "Hangzhou Pass" vividly portrays the predatory tax collectors in Qing Dynasty Hangzhou. Even someone as cultured and respected as the author was exploited; imagine the plight of ordinary people. The poem reflects the corruption of the Qing government, the heavy tax burden, and the suffering of the people. Written in a straightforward style with concise brushwork, it weaves together scenes, characters, events, and emotions, showcasing the poet's skill in simplifying complexity.