How Song Lyrics Can Be Read: A Graphic Version

Author: Xin Ran
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-07-01
Features: The term "ci" (a type of Chinese poetry) varies in length of verse, yet conveys an enduring sentiment. Opening its pages reveals love, family affection, nostalgia, and all emotions are encompassed; from nobles and scholars to courtesans, it depicts the myriad aspects of the world. The great scholar of Chinese classics, Wang Guowei, once said, "The essence of ci lies in its artistic realm. With a realm, it naturally achieves a high style and produces famous lines. The reason why the ci of the Five Dynasties and Northern Song Dynasty stands out lies in this." A ci poet remains true to their innocent heart. Thus, born in the depths of the palace and raised by women, these shortcomings as a ruler were also the strengths of a poet. A ci poet must delve into the universe and life while also transcending it. Delving in, they can write about it; transcending, they can observe it. Delving in gives vitality, while transcending grants elegance. Mei Cheng could delve but not transcend, and since the Bai Shi era, none have dreamed of achieving both. A ci poet must view external things with disdain, thus commanding wind and moon as slaves. Yet, they must also cherish external things, thus sharing joy and sorrow with flowers and grass. A ci poet sees all external things as mere materials for play. Yet, their play is done with passion, making humor and solemnity both indispensable.