忆江南
Recalling the South of the Yangtze
Original
江南好，风景旧曾谙。
日出江花红胜火，春来江水绿如蓝。
Translation
The South is fair; its scenery I once knew well.
Sunrise dyes river flowers redder than flame; spring turns river waters green as indigo.
Line by Line Analysis
About This Poem
Complete English translation: 'Recalling the South of the Yangtze: The South is fair; its scenery I once knew well. Sunrise dyes river flowers redder than flame; spring turns river waters green as indigo. How can I not recall the South of the Yangtze?' Background: Written in his later years, Bai reflects on his official tenure in Jiangnan, where he governed Hangzhou and Suzhou. The poem celebrates Jiangnan’s natural splendor—vibrant flowers, emerald rivers—and conveys deep nostalgia through vivid, accessible imagery, capturing the allure of a bygone era.
About the Poet
白居易
Bái Jūyì
Bái Jūyì (772–846), a leading poet of the Tang Dynasty, spearheaded the New Yuefu Movement, advocating 'poems should serve society'. His works, like 'The Song of Everlasting Sorrow' and 'Pipa Xing', use simple language ('old women can understand') and vivid realism, reflecting social issues. A versatile writer, he blended elegance with accessibility, leaving lasting influence on Chinese literature.
Cultural & Historical Context
Historical context: Tang Dynasty’s mid-period stability spurred cultural prosperity, with Jiangnan as a wealthy, scenic hub. Cultural context: Ci (lyric poetry) flourished, and Bai’s plain style made it popular. Social context: New Yuefu Movement demanded realism in literature, influencing Bai’s focus on everyday life. Personal experience: Bai retired to Luoyang, missing his Jiangnan days. Creation purpose: To immortalize Jiangnan’s beauty and express enduring affection. Artistic features: Simple language, bold color contrasts (red vs. green), natural metaphors (fire, indigo), and emotional resonance through idyllic scenery, making it a timeless ode to nostalgia.