Analysis of "南陵别儿童入京" - Classical Chinese Poetry

Introduction

The poem "南陵别儿童入京" (Nánlíng Bié Értóng Rù Jīng, "Farewell to My Children at Nanling Before Entering the Capital") was written by Li Bai (李白, 701–762), one of China's most celebrated poets from the Tang Dynasty. Known as the "Immortal Poet" for his romantic and free-spirited style, Li Bai often wrote about nature, wine, and personal ambition.

This poem captures a pivotal moment in Li Bai's life—his departure from his rural home to the capital, Chang'an, after receiving an imperial summons. It reflects his excitement, pride, and the bittersweet farewell to his family. The work is significant for its vivid imagery, emotional depth, and insight into Tang Dynasty scholar-official culture.

The Poem: Full Text and Translation

白酒新熟山中归
Báijiǔ xīn shú shān zhōng guī
Freshly brewed white wine, I return from the mountains

黄鸡啄黍秋正肥
Huáng jī zhuó shǔ qiū zhèng féi
Yellow chickens pecking grain—autumn at its fattest

呼童烹鸡酌白酒
Hū tóng pēng jī zhuó báijiǔ
I call the children to cook the chicken and pour the wine

儿女嬉笑牵人衣
Érnǚ xīxiào qiān rén yī
My children laugh and play, tugging at my robe

高歌取醉欲自慰
Gāo gē qǔ zuì yù zìwèi
Singing loudly, I drink to console myself

起舞落日争光辉
Qǐwǔ luòrì zhēng guānghuī
I dance, rivaling the setting sun’s brilliance

游说万乘苦不早
Yóushuì wànshèng kǔ bù zǎo
Regretting I couldn’t persuade the emperor sooner

著鞭跨马涉远道
Zhuó biān kuà mǎ shè yuǎn dào
Whip in hand, I mount my horse for the long journey

会稽愚妇轻买臣
Kuàijī yú fù qīng Mǎi Chén
Like the foolish wife of Zhu Maichen from Kuaiji

余亦辞家西入秦
Yú yì cí jiā xī rù Qín
I too leave home, westward to Qin (Chang’an)

仰天大笑出门去
Yǎng tiān dà xiào chū mén qù
Laughing heartily, I step out the gate

我辈岂是蓬蒿人
Wǒ bèi qǐ shì pénghāo rén
How could someone like me be a common weed?

Line-by-Line Analysis

1. Opening Scene (Lines 1–4)
   - The poem begins with rustic imagery: freshly brewed wine, chickens feasting on grain, and children playing. This sets a warm, domestic scene before the journey.
   - The "yellow chickens" symbolize prosperity, while the children’s laughter contrasts with the impending separation.

2. Celebration and Resolve (Lines 5–8)
   - Li Bai drinks, sings, and dances, channeling his excitement and nervous energy. The "setting sun" metaphor suggests his ambition outshining even nature.
   - "Regretting I couldn’t persuade the emperor sooner" reveals his eagerness for recognition after years of obscurity.

3. Historical Allusion (Lines 9–10)
   - The reference to Zhu Maichen (a Han Dynasty scholar whose wife mocked his poverty before he rose to fame) underscores Li Bai’s confidence in his own destiny.

4. Defiant Departure (Lines 11–12)
   - The iconic closing lines show Li Bai laughing at the sky, declaring he’s no ordinary man ("common weed"). This reflects Tang-era ideals of talent and self-worth.

Themes and Symbolism

1. Ambition and Pride
   - The poem celebrates Li Bai’s belief in his literary genius and his long-awaited chance to serve the emperor.

2. Conflict Between Family and Duty
   - The tender scene with his children contrasts with his resolute departure, highlighting the sacrifices of scholarly pursuit.

3. Nature as a Mirror of Emotion
   - Autumn’s abundance mirrors his optimism, while the "setting sun" duel symbolizes his radiant aspirations.

Cultural Context

• Tang Dynasty Scholar-Officials: Li Bai’s journey reflects the era’s meritocratic ideals, where poets sought imperial favor for social mobility.
• Wine and Poetry: The "white wine" represents both celebration and the poetic inspiration Li Bai was famous for.
• Historical Parallels: The Zhu Maichen story was a well-known parable about perseverance, resonating with Li Bai’s audience.

Conclusion

"南陵别儿童入京" is a triumphant yet deeply human poem. Li Bai’s exuberance, familial love, and unshakable self-confidence make it timeless. For modern readers, it speaks to universal themes: chasing dreams, leaving loved ones, and believing in one’s potential. The poem’s energy and vivid imagery ensure its place as a masterpiece of Chinese literature.

Final thought: Li Bai’s laughter at the sky isn’t just pride—it’s a declaration that greatness often begins with a single, daring step into the unknown.