While Chinese language may seem mundane to some Singaporeans, Chinese literature is anything but dull. Personally, I adore Chinese literature, especially poems, and here are a few of my favourite works.
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《声声慢·寻寻觅觅》 (Sheng Sheng Man · Xun Xun Mi Mi)
This poem skillfully employs literary devices such as repetition, as seen in phrases like “寻寻觅觅，冷冷清清，凄凄惨惨戚戚 （Lonely and lonesome, bleak and bitter, Deep in dreary thoughts I missed you miserably so）,” adding depth to its meaning.
It conveys the poet’s profound sense of loss for her country and husband, leaving her in solitude, as evidenced by lines like “三杯两盏淡酒，怎敌他、晚来风急？（How could light wine of two or three pours, Fend off a rush of wind in the late hours?）” which poignantly depicts her struggle with loneliness amidst harsh conditions.
The concluding line, “这次第，怎一个愁字了得！（In fall, how could sorrow possibly spell a melancholy overflow!）” encapsulates the poet’s overwhelming sorrow and enduring suffering.
Check out the english translation for the full meaning of this literary work.
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《鹊桥仙·纤云弄巧》(Que Qiao Xian · Xian Yun Nong Qiao)
One of my all-time favourite poems, it tells the widely known folk tale of the cowherd and the weaver girl that were separated and can only meet once a year.
Though filled with romance, it also carries a sense of sadness. Lines like “金风玉露一相逢，便胜却人间无数 (When autumn’s Golden Wind embraces Dew of Jade, All the love scenes on earth, however many, fade)” beautifully capture the depth of their love, while “两情若是久长时，又岂在朝朝暮暮 (If love between both sides can last for aye, Why need they stay together night and day?)” emphasises how true love transcends time and distance.
Check out the english translation for the full meaning of this literary work.
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《爱的辩证·一题二式》 (Ai De Bian Zheng·Yi Ti Er Shi)
What sets this poem apart is its two distinct sections. The first section recounts the story of Wei Sheng, who held onto a pillar awaiting his love until his death, yet still expressing unwavering devotion through lines like “我在千寻之下等你，水来我在水中等你，火来我在灰烬中等你 (I’ll wait for you beneath a thousand layers, in water if it comes, in ashes if fire arrives)”.
In contrast, the second section delves into the poet’s interpretation of the situation. Despite the cherished memories between Wei Sheng and his loved one, he was fearful of death and unwilling to sacrifice himself for love.
Lines like “好冷，孤独而空虚，如一尾产卵后的鱼 (So cold, lonely, and empty, like a fish after laying its eggs)” illustrate Wei Sheng’s fear of the emptiness that follows, akin to a fish that dies after giving birth. Thus, he makes excuses and expresses hope for a future reunion instead.
What are some chinese poems that intrigue you?
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