Understanding "赠孟浩然" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 赠孟浩然
• Pinyin: Zèng Mèng Hàorán
• Literal Meaning: "To give to Meng Haoran" or "Dedicated to Meng Haoran"
• Primary Meaning: A poetic dedication or gift (often a poem) addressed to the Tang Dynasty poet Meng Haoran.

2. In-depth Explanation

• Context and Usage:
  "赠孟浩然" is most famously known as the title of a poem by the renowned Tang Dynasty poet Li Bai (李白). The phrase itself means "To Meng Haoran" or "For Meng Haoran," indicating that the poem is dedicated to Meng Haoran, another celebrated poet and Li Bai's close friend. In classical Chinese poetry, "赠" (zèng) is often used in titles to signify a dedication or gift (usually a poem) to someone.

• Character Breakdown:

• 赠 (zèng): Means "to give," "to present," or "to dedicate." It often implies a respectful or affectionate gesture.
• 孟浩然 (Mèng Hàorán): The name of the famous Tang Dynasty poet Meng Haoran (689–740 AD), known for his pastoral and nature-themed poetry.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 李白写了一首诗，题为《赠孟浩然》。
   Pinyin: Lǐ Bái xiěle yī shǒu shī, tí wéi "Zèng Mèng Hàorán."
   English: Li Bai wrote a poem titled "To Meng Haoran."

2. Chinese: 《赠孟浩然》表达了李白对孟浩然的敬仰之情。
   Pinyin: "Zèng Mèng Hàorán" biǎodále Lǐ Bái duì Mèng Hàorán de jìngyǎng zhī qíng.
   English: "To Meng Haoran" expresses Li Bai's admiration for Meng Haoran.

3. Chinese: 这首诗《赠孟浩然》是唐代文学的经典之作。
   Pinyin: Zhè shǒu shī "Zèng Mèng Hàorán" shì Táng dài wénxué de jīngdiǎn zhī zuò.
   English: This poem, "To Meng Haoran," is a classic work of Tang Dynasty literature.

Cultural Notes

• Meng Haoran was a prominent pastoral poet of the Tang Dynasty, known for his simple yet profound depictions of rural life and nature.
• Li Bai's poem "赠孟浩然" praises Meng Haoran's noble character and literary talent, reflecting the deep mutual respect between the two poets.
• In classical Chinese culture, dedicating a poem to someone was a significant gesture of friendship, admiration, or farewell.

Conclusion

"赠孟浩然" is a poetic dedication by Li Bai to his friend Meng Haoran, symbolizing respect and camaraderie in Tang Dynasty literary circles. Remember that "赠" signifies a gift or dedication, often used in classical poetry titles. This phrase offers a glimpse into the rich tradition of Chinese poetic exchanges.