Understanding "水仙子·咏江南" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 水仙子·咏江南
• Pinyin: Shuǐ xiān zǐ · yǒng Jiāngnán
• Literal Meaning: "Water Immortal · Ode to Jiangnan"
• Primary Meaning: "水仙子·咏江南" is the title of a classical Chinese poem (or ci 词) that praises the beauty and charm of the Jiangnan region (south of the Yangtze River).

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"水仙子·咏江南" is a ci (词), a type of classical Chinese poetry that follows specific tonal patterns. The title combines two parts:
- "水仙子" (Shuǐ xiān zǐ) – "Water Immortal," which is the name of the ci’s musical tune (词牌 cípái).
- "咏江南" (yǒng Jiāngnán) – "Ode to Jiangnan," indicating the poem’s theme, celebrating the scenic and cultural richness of Jiangnan.

This title is typically used in literary contexts, especially when referring to classical Chinese poetry.

Character Breakdown

• 水 (shuǐ) – "water," symbolizing the rivers and lakes of Jiangnan.
• 仙 (xiān) – "immortal" or "celestial," suggesting ethereal beauty.
• 子 (zǐ) – a suffix often used in classical titles (e.g., 孔子 Kǒngzǐ – Confucius).
• 咏 (yǒng) – "to chant" or "to praise in poetry."
• 江南 (Jiāngnán) – "Jiangnan," the region south of the Yangtze River, known for its picturesque landscapes.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 张可久写了一首《水仙子·咏江南》，描绘了江南的美景。
   Pinyin: Zhāng Kějiǔ xiě le yī shǒu "Shuǐ xiān zǐ · yǒng Jiāngnán," miáohuì le Jiāngnán de měijǐng.
   English: Zhang Kejiu wrote a poem titled "Water Immortal · Ode to Jiangnan," depicting the beautiful scenery of Jiangnan.

2. Chinese: 《水仙子·咏江南》是元曲中的经典之作。
   Pinyin: "Shuǐ xiān zǐ · yǒng Jiāngnán" shì Yuánqǔ zhōng de jīngdiǎn zhī zuò.
   English: "Water Immortal · Ode to Jiangnan" is a classic work in Yuan dynasty poetry.

3. Chinese: 读《水仙子·咏江南》，仿佛看到了江南的烟雨楼台。
   Pinyin: Dú "Shuǐ xiān zǐ · yǒng Jiāngnán," fǎngfú kàn dào le Jiāngnán de yānyǔ lóutái.
   English: Reading "Water Immortal · Ode to Jiangnan," it feels like seeing the misty towers of Jiangnan.

Cultural Notes

• Jiangnan (江南): A culturally significant region in China, known for its canals, gardens, and poetic inspiration.
• Ci Poetry (词): A lyrical form from the Song and Yuan dynasties, often set to music.
• Author Context: This poem is attributed to Zhang Kejiu (张可久), a famous Yuan dynasty poet known for his elegant and refined style.

Conclusion

"水仙子·咏江南" is a classical Chinese poem title that celebrates the enchanting beauty of Jiangnan. Understanding its characters and cultural background helps appreciate its poetic elegance. Remember:
- "水仙子" = tune name (Water Immortal).
- "咏江南" = theme (Ode to Jiangnan).

This phrase is a gateway to exploring classical Chinese literature and the romanticized landscapes of Jiangnan.