Understanding "清平调·其三" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 清平调·其三
• Pinyin: Qīngpíngdiào · Qí sān
• Literal Meaning: "Pure Serene Melody · Part Three"
• Primary Meaning: This refers to the third poem in a series of lyrical poems titled "清平调" (Qīngpíngdiào), written by the famous Tang Dynasty poet Li Bai (李白). The poems were composed to celebrate the beauty of Yang Guifei (杨贵妃), the beloved consort of Emperor Xuanzong of Tang.

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"清平调·其三" is part of a trio of poems that blend romantic imagery with imperial grandeur. The third poem is particularly notable for its vivid metaphors and emotional depth. These poems were traditionally sung to the tune of "清平调," a musical style associated with elegance and refinement.

Character Breakdown

• 清 (Qīng): Pure, clear, serene
• 平 (Píng): Peaceful, calm, even
• 调 (Diào): Melody, tune, tone
• 其 (Qí): Its, his, her (used here as a possessive marker)
• 三 (Sān): Three (indicating the third part)

Together, the title suggests a "pure and serene melody" in three parts, with the third being the focus here.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 李白写的《清平调·其三》赞美了杨贵妃的美貌。
   Pinyin: Lǐ Bái xiě de 《Qīngpíngdiào · Qí sān》 zànměi le Yáng Guìfēi de měimào.
   English: Li Bai's "Pure Serene Melody · Part Three" praises Yang Guifei's beauty.

2. Chinese: 《清平调·其三》是唐代诗歌中的经典之作。
   Pinyin: 《Qīngpíngdiào · Qí sān》 shì Táng dài shīgē zhōng de jīngdiǎn zhī zuò.
   English: "Pure Serene Melody · Part Three" is a classic work of Tang Dynasty poetry.

3. Chinese: 老师在课堂上讲解了《清平调·其三》的意境。
   Pinyin: Lǎoshī zài kètáng shàng jiǎngjiě le 《Qīngpíngdiào · Qí sān》 de yìjìng.
   English: The teacher explained the artistic conception of "Pure Serene Melody · Part Three" in class.

Cultural Notes

The "清平调" poems are deeply intertwined with Tang Dynasty court culture. Li Bai, one of China's greatest poets, composed these works at the emperor's request, using floral and celestial imagery to elevate Yang Guifei's beauty to a divine level. The third poem is especially famous for its closing lines, which compare her to a heavenly fairy, blending admiration with a touch of melancholy.

Conclusion

"清平调·其三" is a masterpiece of Tang Dynasty poetry, showcasing Li Bai's genius and the cultural grandeur of the era. For learners, it represents not just a poem but a window into classical Chinese aesthetics and history. Remember the title as "Pure Serene Melody · Part Three," and explore its verses to appreciate its lyrical beauty.