Analysis of "送贺宾客归越" - Classical Chinese Poetry

Introduction

"送贺宾客归越" (Sòng Hè Bīnkè Guī Yuè) is a farewell poem written by the renowned Tang Dynasty poet Li Bai (李白, 701–762). Known as the "Immortal Poet" (Shīxiān), Li Bai is celebrated for his romantic and free-spirited style, often blending natural imagery with deep emotional resonance. This poem was composed to bid farewell to He Zhizhang (贺知章), a respected scholar and friend, as he returned to his hometown in Yue (modern-day Zhejiang). The poem reflects themes of friendship, nostalgia, and the beauty of nature—a hallmark of Li Bai’s work.

The Poem: Full Text and Translation

镜湖流水漾清波
Jìng hú liú shuǐ yàng qīng bō
The Mirror Lake’s flowing water ripples with clear waves,

狂客归舟逸兴多
Kuáng kè guī zhōu yì xìng duō
The "Mad Guest" returns by boat, his joy unrestrained.

山阴道士如相见
Shān yīn dào shì rú xiāng jiàn
If the Daoist of Shanyin should meet you,

应写黄庭换白鹅
Yīng xiě Huáng Tíng huàn bái é
He’d trade his white geese for your calligraphy of Huangting.

Line-by-Line Analysis

1. "镜湖流水漾清波"
   The poem opens with an image of Mirror Lake (Jìng Hú), a famous scenic spot in Yue. The "clear waves" symbolize purity and tranquility, setting a serene tone for He Zhizhang’s journey home.

2. "狂客归舟逸兴多"
   He Zhizhang was nicknamed the "Mad Guest" (Kuáng Kè) for his eccentric and free-spirited personality. The phrase "joy unrestrained" (yì xìng duō) conveys his excitement about returning home, reflecting Li Bai’s admiration for his friend’s carefree nature.

3. "山阴道士如相见"
   Shanyin was another name for Yue, and the "Daoist" refers to Wang Xizhi (王羲之), a legendary calligrapher who once traded his writing for geese. This line imagines He Zhizhang meeting such a figure, hinting at his own literary talent.

4. "应写黄庭换白鹅"
   Huangting is a Daoist scripture that Wang Xizhi famously transcribed. The line humorously suggests that He’s calligraphy is so exquisite that even a Daoist sage would trade his prized white geese for it—a playful nod to He Zhizhang’s skill and reputation.

Themes and Symbolism

• Friendship and Farewell: The poem is a heartfelt send-off, celebrating He Zhizhang’s return while expressing Li Bai’s affection and admiration.
• Nature and Freedom: The imagery of the lake and boat evokes a sense of liberation, mirroring He’s unconstrained spirit.
• Cultural Legacy: References to Wang Xizhi and Huangting highlight the value of art and scholarship in Tang Dynasty society.

Cultural Context

During the Tang Dynasty, farewell poems (sòngbié shī) were a common literary practice among scholars and officials. Li Bai’s poem not only honors his friend but also weaves in historical and cultural allusions, showcasing the interconnectedness of art, nature, and personal relationships in Chinese tradition. The mention of Wang Xizhi—a cultural icon—elevates He Zhizhang’s status, blending humor with reverence.

Conclusion

"送贺宾客归越" is a masterpiece of brevity and depth, capturing the joy of a homecoming and the bond between two great minds. Li Bai’s playful yet profound style makes the poem timeless, reminding us of the enduring power of friendship and art. Even today, it resonates as a celebration of individuality and the beauty of returning to one’s roots.

For readers exploring Chinese poetry, this piece offers a glimpse into the Tang Dynasty’s vibrant literary culture—where nature, history, and human emotion intertwine effortlessly.