Analysis of "七步诗" - Classical Chinese Poetry

Introduction

The "七步诗" (Qī Bù Shī), or "Poem Composed Within Seven Steps," is one of the most famous poems in Chinese history, attributed to Cao Zhi (曹植, 192–232 CE). The poem was allegedly composed under duress during the Three Kingdoms period when Cao Zhi's brother, Emperor Cao Pi, ordered him to create a poem within seven steps—or face execution. This poem not only showcases Cao Zhi's extraordinary literary talent but also reflects the political tensions of the era. It remains a celebrated example of wit, emotional depth, and classical Chinese poetic craft.

The Poem: Full Text and Translation

煮豆燃豆萁
Zhǔ dòu rán dòu qí
Beans are boiled using beanstalks as fuel,

豆在釜中泣
Dòu zài fǔ zhōng qì
The beans in the pot cry out in sorrow.

本是同根生
Běn shì tóng gēn shēng
We grew from the same root,

相煎何太急
Xiāng jiān hé tài jí
Why must you torment me so fiercely?

Line-by-Line Analysis

1. "煮豆燃豆萁" (Zhǔ dòu rán dòu qí)
   - This opening line sets up a vivid metaphor: beanstalks (representing Cao Pi) are used to burn and boil beans (representing Cao Zhi). The imagery is striking—a natural element (beans and stalks) turned into a symbol of self-destruction.

2. "豆在釜中泣" (Dòu zài fǔ zhōng qì)
   - The "weeping" beans personify suffering, evoking sympathy. The "pot" (釜, fǔ) symbolizes the inescapable pressure Cao Zhi faced from his brother.

3. "本是同根生" (Běn shì tóng gēn shēng)
   - A poignant reminder of their shared lineage—both were sons of the warlord Cao Cao. The line underscores the tragedy of fraternal conflict.

4. "相煎何太急" (Xiāng jiān hé tài jí)
   - The final line is a direct plea: "Why must you torment me so urgently?" The word "煎" (jiān, "to torment") carries a double meaning—it literally means "to boil," reinforcing the cooking metaphor while conveying emotional anguish.

Themes and Symbolism

• Fraternal Conflict & Betrayal: The poem is a lament over brotherly strife, a recurring theme in Chinese history and literature.
• Nature as Metaphor: The beans and stalks symbolize the unnatural destruction of kinship—what should nourish (the stalk) instead destroys (the bean).
• Survival & Wit: The poem itself was Cao Zhi's means of survival, proving his intelligence and poetic skill under threat.

Cultural Context

The "七步诗" emerged during the Three Kingdoms period (220–280 CE), a time of political fragmentation and intrigue. Cao Zhi, a gifted poet, was sidelined by his brother Cao Pi, who saw him as a rival. The poem reflects Confucian values of familial harmony (孝, xiào—filial piety) while subtly criticizing tyranny.

In Chinese culture, the poem is often cited to warn against internal strife, whether in families or nations. Its endurance lies in its universal message: the tragedy of turning against one’s own.

Conclusion

The "七步诗" is a masterpiece of brevity and emotional power. In just four lines, Cao Zhi transforms a life-or-death challenge into a timeless meditation on brotherhood and cruelty. Its relevance extends beyond ancient China—today, it serves as a reminder of the costs of division and the enduring need for compassion. For readers exploring Chinese poetry, this poem offers a perfect entry point: simple in language, profound in meaning, and unforgettable in its sorrow.