Understanding "寄左省杜拾遗" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 寄左省杜拾遗
• Pinyin: Jì Zuǒ Shěng Dù Shíyí
• Literal Meaning: "Sent to Du Shiyi of the Left Department"
• Primary Meaning: This is the title of a poem by the Tang Dynasty poet Cen Shen (岑参), addressed to his friend Du Fu (杜甫), who held the official title "左拾遗" (Zuǒ Shíyí, "Reminder of the Left") in the imperial government.

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"寄左省杜拾遗" is not a standalone word but the title of a classical poem. It reflects the Tang Dynasty practice of addressing colleagues or friends by their official titles in formal correspondence. The poem expresses Cen Shen's admiration for Du Fu's integrity and subtly laments the challenges of serving in government.

Character Breakdown

• 寄 (Jì): "To send" or "to entrust" (often used in letters or poems).
• 左省 (Zuǒ Shěng): "Left Department," referring to the imperial Secretariat, one of the key government branches in ancient China.
• 杜 (Dù): Du Fu's surname.
• 拾遗 (Shíyí): Literally "to pick up omissions," an official title meaning "Reminder"—a low-ranking but respected role advising the emperor.

3. Example Sentences

Since "寄左省杜拾遗" is a poem title, modern usage is rare. However, here are illustrative examples:

1. Chinese: 岑参的《寄左省杜拾遗》表达了对杜甫的敬仰。
   Pinyin: Cén Shēn de 《Jì Zuǒ Shěng Dù Shíyí》biǎodá le duì Dù Fǔ de jìngyǎng.
   English: Cen Shen's "To Du Shiyi of the Left Department" expresses admiration for Du Fu.

2. Chinese: 这首诗的标题《寄左省杜拾遗》包含了杜甫的官职。
   Pinyin: Zhè shǒu shī de biāotí 《Jì Zuǒ Shěng Dù Shíyí》 bāohán le Dù Fǔ de guānzhí.
   English: The poem's title "To Du Shiyi of the Left Department" includes Du Fu's official title.

3. Chinese: 唐代诗人常用官职称呼友人，如“杜拾遗”。
   Pinyin: Tángdài shīrén cháng yòng guānzhí chēnghu yǒurén, rú “Dù Shíyí”.
   English: Tang poets often addressed friends by their official titles, like "Du Shiyi."

Cultural Notes

• Official Titles in Poetry: Tang Dynasty poets frequently referenced titles (e.g., "拾遗") to show respect or highlight the recipient's role. Du Fu's title "左拾遗" reflected his duty to critique imperial policies.
• Historical Context: This poem was written when both Cen Shen and Du Fu served in the Tang government, a turbulent era (An Lushan Rebellion). The poem's tone hints at the challenges of honest officials.

Conclusion

"寄左省杜拾遗" is a window into Tang Dynasty culture, showcasing how poetry, official titles, and personal relationships intertwined. Remember it as a historical artifact and a tribute to Du Fu's legacy.