Understanding "滕王阁诗" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 滕王阁诗
• Pinyin: Téng Wáng Gé Shī
• Literal Meaning: "Poem of the Prince Teng Pavilion"
• Primary Meaning: Refers to a famous classical Chinese poem written by Wang Bo (王勃) during the Tang Dynasty, celebrating the Prince Teng Pavilion in Nanchang, Jiangxi Province.

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"滕王阁诗" is the title of a renowned poem composed by Wang Bo (650–676 AD), one of the "Four Paragons of the Early Tang Dynasty." The poem describes the grandeur of the Prince Teng Pavilion and reflects on the passage of time and the impermanence of human achievements. It is often studied in Chinese literature classes and appreciated for its vivid imagery and philosophical depth.

Character Breakdown

• 滕 (Téng): Refers to Prince Teng (李元婴), the Tang Dynasty prince who commissioned the pavilion.
• 王 (Wáng): Means "prince" or "king," indicating the pavilion's royal connection.
• 阁 (Gé): Translates to "pavilion" or "tower," referring to the architectural structure.
• 诗 (Shī): Means "poem," indicating the literary form.

Together, the phrase literally means "Poem of the Prince Teng Pavilion."

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 王勃的《滕王阁诗》是中国文学史上的经典之作。
   Pinyin: Wáng Bó de "Téng Wáng Gé Shī" shì Zhōngguó wénxué shǐ shàng de jīngdiǎn zhī zuò.
   English: Wang Bo's "Poem of the Prince Teng Pavilion" is a classic work in the history of Chinese literature.

2. Chinese: 我们在语文课上学习了《滕王阁诗》。
   Pinyin: Wǒmen zài yǔwén kè shàng xuéxí le "Téng Wáng Gé Shī."
   English: We studied "Poem of the Prince Teng Pavilion" in our Chinese literature class.

3. Chinese: 《滕王阁诗》描绘了滕王阁的壮丽景色。
   Pinyin: "Téng Wáng Gé Shī" miáohuì le Téng Wáng Gé de zhuànglì jǐngsè.
   English: "Poem of the Prince Teng Pavilion" depicts the magnificent scenery of the Prince Teng Pavilion.

Cultural Notes

The Prince Teng Pavilion (滕王阁) is one of the "Three Great Towers of Jiangnan" and a symbol of Nanchang. Wang Bo's poem was composed during a banquet at the pavilion, where he famously improvised the piece on the spot. The poem is celebrated for its lyrical beauty and profound reflections on history and nature. The pavilion itself has been rebuilt multiple times due to fires and wars, but it remains a cultural landmark.

Conclusion

"滕王阁诗" (Téng Wáng Gé Shī) is a masterpiece of Tang Dynasty poetry, immortalizing the Prince Teng Pavilion through Wang Bo's eloquent verses. Understanding this poem offers insight into classical Chinese literature and the cultural significance of historical landmarks. Remember, it’s not just a poem—it’s a window into China’s rich literary heritage.