Analysis of "前出塞·其六" - Classical Chinese Poetry

Introduction

"前出塞·其六" (Qián Chū Sài, Qí Liù) is one of the most famous poems by Du Fu (杜甫), a revered poet of the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD). Known as the "Poet Sage," Du Fu's works often reflect the hardships of war, the suffering of common people, and Confucian ideals of justice and morality. This poem is part of a series titled Frontier Songs, which critiques the Tang government's military campaigns.

Written during a period of frequent border conflicts, the poem expresses the futility of war and the wisdom of restraint—a timeless message that resonates across cultures.

The Poem: Full Text and Translation

挽弓当挽强，
Wǎn gōng dāng wǎn qiáng,
When drawing a bow, draw a strong one;

用箭当用长。
Yòng jiàn dāng yòng cháng.
When using arrows, use long ones.

射人先射马，
Shè rén xiān shè mǎ,
To shoot a man, first shoot his horse;

擒贼先擒王。
Qín zéi xiān qín wáng.
To capture rebels, first capture their chief.

杀人亦有限，
Shā rén yì yǒu xiàn,
Killing should have its limits;

列国自有疆。
Liè guó zì yǒu jiāng.
Nations have their borders.

苟能制侵陵，
Gǒu néng zhì qīn líng,
If one can stop aggression,

岂在多杀伤？
Qǐ zài duō shā shāng?
What’s the use of excessive slaughter?

Line-by-Line Analysis

1. "When drawing a bow, draw a strong one..."
   The opening lines use practical military advice as a metaphor for efficiency and strategy. The poet suggests that strength and precision are key in warfare.

2. "To shoot a man, first shoot his horse..."
   This reflects ancient battlefield tactics—disabling the horse weakens the rider. It also symbolizes targeting the root of a problem rather than its symptoms.

3. "Killing should have its limits..."
   Here, Du Fu shifts from strategy to morality. He argues that war should not be waged indiscriminately, emphasizing restraint and respect for boundaries.

4. "If one can stop aggression..."
   The closing lines deliver a Confucian-inspired message: the goal of war should be defense, not conquest. Excessive violence is condemned as unnecessary.

Themes and Symbolism

• The Futility of War: The poem critiques the Tang Dynasty's expansionist policies, suggesting that endless warfare harms both soldiers and civilians.
• Wisdom and Restraint: The advice on battle tactics evolves into a broader philosophical stance—strength should be used wisely, not brutally.
• Confucian Morality: Du Fu’s emphasis on limits aligns with Confucian values of righteousness (义 yì) and humane governance (仁政 rén zhèng).

Cultural Context

During the Tang Dynasty, China frequently clashed with neighboring tribes, leading to conscription and widespread suffering. Du Fu, who witnessed these struggles firsthand, used poetry to voice dissent. His works often humanized soldiers and peasants, contrasting with the glorification of war in official narratives.

This poem also reflects the Chinese philosophical belief in "just war"—military action should only serve defense, not ambition. The idea that "nations have their borders" echoes the Confucian principle of harmony between states.

Conclusion

"前出塞·其六" is a masterpiece of moral clarity and poetic elegance. Du Fu’s blend of practical wisdom and ethical depth makes the poem timeless, speaking to modern readers about the consequences of violence and the importance of restraint.

In an era where conflicts persist globally, Du Fu’s words remind us: true strength lies not in destruction, but in wisdom and humanity.