Analysis of "感遇·其二" - Classical Chinese Poetry

Introduction

"感遇·其二" (Gǎn Yù·Qí Èr, "Feelings Encountered No.2") is one of twelve poems in the Gǎn Yù series by Zhang Jiuling (678–740), a prominent statesman and poet of the Tang Dynasty. Known for his moral integrity and literary talent, Zhang Jiuling often used poetry to express his political frustrations and philosophical reflections. This poem, written during his exile, explores themes of resilience, virtue, and the transient nature of life through the metaphor of orchids—a symbol of nobility in Chinese culture.

The Poem: Full Text and Translation

兰叶春葳蕤
Lán yè chūn wēi ruí
Orchid leaves flourish in spring,

桂华秋皎洁
Guì huá qiū jiǎo jié
Osmanthus blooms shine pure in autumn.

欣欣此生意
Xīn xīn cǐ shēng yì
Thriving with vibrant life,

自尔为佳节
Zì ěr wéi jiā jié
Each season has its own grace.

谁知林栖者
Shéi zhī lín qī zhě
Who knows the recluse in the woods,

闻风坐相悦
Wén fēng zuò xiāng yuè
Sits delighted by their fragrance?

草木有本心
Cǎo mù yǒu běn xīn
Plants keep their innate nature,

何求美人折
Hé qiú měi rén zhé
Why beg for a admirer’s plucking?

Line-by-Line Analysis

1. Orchids and Osmanthus: The poem opens with contrasting imagery—lush orchids in spring and radiant osmanthus in autumn. These plants symbolize unwavering virtue; they bloom beautifully without seeking external validation.

2. "Thriving with vibrant life": The poet emphasizes nature’s self-sufficient joy, mirroring Confucian ideals of moral self-cultivation.

3. The Recluse: The "林栖者" (lín qī zhě, recluse) represents a kindred spirit who appreciates the plants’ purity. This alludes to Zhang Jiuling’s hope for like-minded officials in a corrupt court.

4. "Innate nature": The key line—草木有本心 (cǎo mù yǒu běn xīn)—asserts that integrity is intrinsic, not performative. The orchids don’t need to be picked by a "美人" (měi rén, beauty/admirer) to prove their worth.

Themes and Symbolism

• Resilience: Orchids, often growing in harsh conditions, reflect Zhang’s unyielding principles despite political exile.
• Natural Virtue: The poem critiques societal ambition—true nobility (like plants) doesn’t seek reward.
• Daoist Harmony: The cyclical seasons mirror Daoist acceptance of life’s transient phases.

Cultural Context

Written during the Tang Dynasty’s golden age, Zhang Jiuling’s work subtly criticizes Emperor Xuanzong’s court, where flattery overshadowed merit. Orchids were Confucian symbols of the junzi (君子, noble person), making the poem a moral allegory. The final lines echo Analects 15.19: "The virtuous need not clamor for recognition."

Conclusion

"感遇·其二" is a masterclass in symbolic restraint. Through humble plants, Zhang Jiuling champions quiet integrity over political posturing—a message resonating across cultures today. For modern readers, it’s a reminder: true worth lies not in external praise, but in staying rooted in one’s principles.

"The orchid, unseen in the valley, still perfumes the wind." — Ancient Chinese proverb