Understanding "曲江二首" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 曲江二首
• Pinyin: Qǔjiāng èr shǒu
• Literal Meaning: "Two Poems about Qujiang"
• Primary Meaning: Refers to a pair of poems written by the Tang Dynasty poet Du Fu, describing the scenic Qujiang area in Chang'an (modern-day Xi'an).

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"曲江二首" is the title of two famous poems by Du Fu (杜甫), one of China's greatest poets. These poems reflect on the fleeting nature of life and the beauty of nature, set against the backdrop of Qujiang, a picturesque river and garden area in the Tang Dynasty capital, Chang'an. The poems are often studied in Chinese literature for their artistic depth and historical context.

Character Breakdown

• 曲江 (Qǔjiāng): Literally "winding river," referring to the Qujiang River in Chang'an, a place of leisure and natural beauty during the Tang Dynasty.
• 二 (èr): The number "two."
• 首 (shǒu): A measure word for poems or songs, meaning "pieces" or "numbers."

Together, the title means "Two Poems about Qujiang."

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 杜甫的《曲江二首》描绘了盛唐时期的曲江美景。
   Pinyin: Dù Fǔ de 《Qǔjiāng èr shǒu》 miáohuì le shèng Táng shíqī de Qǔjiāng měijǐng.
   English: Du Fu's "Two Poems about Qujiang" depict the beautiful scenery of Qujiang during the golden age of the Tang Dynasty.

2. Chinese: 我们在课堂上学习了《曲江二首》的深刻含义。
   Pinyin: Wǒmen zài kètáng shàng xuéxí le 《Qǔjiāng èr shǒu》 de shēnkè hányì.
   English: We studied the profound meaning of "Two Poems about Qujiang" in class.

3. Chinese: 《曲江二首》反映了杜甫对人生无常的感慨。
   Pinyin: 《Qǔjiāng èr shǒu》 fǎnyìng le Dù Fǔ duì rénshēng wúcháng de gǎnkǎi.
   English: "Two Poems about Qujiang" reflect Du Fu's lamentations on the impermanence of life.

Cultural Notes

Qujiang was a cultural and recreational hub in Tang Dynasty Chang'an, where scholars, poets, and nobles gathered. Du Fu's poems capture both the grandeur of the landscape and the melancholy of societal decline. These works are emblematic of Tang poetry's blend of natural beauty and philosophical reflection.

Conclusion

"曲江二首" refers to two iconic poems by Du Fu, celebrating the beauty of Qujiang while pondering life's transience. Understanding these poems offers insight into Tang Dynasty culture and classical Chinese poetry. Remember the title as "Two Poems about Qujiang," and explore the verses to appreciate their historical and artistic significance.