Analysis of "送杨少尹序" - Classical Chinese Poetry

Introduction

"送杨少尹序" (Sòng Yáng Shàoyǐn Xù) is a prose piece written by the Tang Dynasty poet and official Han Yu (768–824), one of the "Eight Great Prose Masters of the Tang and Song." While not a poem in the strictest sense, this work exemplifies classical Chinese literary artistry through its poetic prose style. Composed as a farewell preface for Yang Juyuan (the "Shao Yin" or Junior Officer Yang), the text reflects Confucian ideals of virtuous governance and the bittersweet nature of parting. Han Yu was a central figure in the Classical Prose Movement, advocating for clear, purposeful writing over the ornate style popular in his time.

The Poem: Full Text and Translation

Since "送杨少尹序" is a prose work, here are its opening lines presented poetically:

昔疏广、受二子
Xī Shū Guǎng, Shòu èr zǐ
In ancient times, the two men Shu Guang and Shu Shou

以年老一朝辞位而去
Yǐ nián lǎo yīzhāo cí wèi ér qù
Resigned from their positions due to old age and left in one morning

于时公卿设供张
Yú shí gōngqīng shè gōng zhāng
Then the high officials prepared a farewell feast

祖道都门外
Zǔ dào dōu mén wài
And saw them off outside the capital's gates

Line-by-Line Analysis

The opening reference to Shu Guang and Shu Shou (疏广、受) immediately establishes a Confucian tone. These Western Han Dynasty officials famously resigned together to avoid clinging to power - a model of virtuous conduct.

"Resigned from their positions due to old age" contrasts with Yang's situation - while Shu's pair left at life's sunset, Yang is departing in his prime, making his sacrifice more poignant.

The farewell feast imagery reflects Tang Dynasty protocol, where elaborate send-offs demonstrated respect. Han Yu elevates Yang's departure by comparing it to this legendary historical event.

"Outside the capital's gates" carries symbolic weight - the city gate represents the boundary between public service and private life, between the center of power and the wilderness beyond.

Themes and Symbolism

1. Virtuous Withdrawal: The central theme echoes Confucius's ideal that officials should know when to step aside. The Shu brothers exemplify this, as does Yang.

2. Transience vs. Legacy: The fleeting nature of the farewell ceremony contrasts with enduring virtue. The banquet will end, but moral example remains.

3. Gateway Symbolism: The city gate becomes a metaphor for transition - from active service to retirement, from public recognition to private anonymity.

Cultural Context

Written during the Tang Dynasty's middle period (9th century), this work reflects:
- Confucian revival: Han Yu championed returning to classical values
- Civil service culture: Officials were scholar-poets first, administrators second
- Ritual significance: Proper ceremonies (like farewells) maintained social harmony

The Tang Dynasty valued "parting poems" (送别诗), but Han Yu's prose version carries deeper philosophical weight by connecting personal departure to timeless principles.

Conclusion

Though not a poem, "送杨少尹序" embodies the poetic essence of Chinese literature - where historical allusion, philosophical depth, and emotional resonance intertwine. Han Yu transforms a routine bureaucratic transfer into meditation on integrity's enduring value. For modern readers, it offers insight into how ancient Chinese thinkers balanced public duty with personal virtue - a tension still relevant today. The work's beauty lies in its quiet power: like the officials it describes, its message departs gracefully but leaves lasting impact.