Meeting Li Guinian in Jiangnan - Du Fu
/江南逢李龟年 - 杜甫/
A Poignant Reunion Amid Falling Blossoms
岐王宅里寻常见，
In Prince Qi’s residence, we met so frequently,
崔九堂前几度闻。
Outside Cui Jiu’s hall, your melodies were often heard.
正是江南好风景，
Now in Jiangnan’s fair scenery, all is lush and serene,
落花时节又逢君。
And in the season of falling blossoms, I encounter you again.
In “Meeting Li Guinian in Jiangnan,” Du Fu recalls a bygone era of music and cultural splendor. Li Guinian was a famous court musician and singer, celebrated for his artistry during the Tang Dynasty. Their meetings had once been common in the lavish surroundings of Prince Qi’s mansion and at gatherings hosted by esteemed nobles such as Cui Jiu. However, the upheavals of war and time have since scattered them far from the capital.
The poem opens with wistful memories of privileged circles, where the resonance of Li Guinian’s performances punctuated cultured banquets and festivities. Du Fu’s lines carry a bittersweet undertone: what was once an easy, commonplace event—hearing Li Guinian’s songs—has now become a poignant reminder of life’s impermanence.
Reuniting in Jiangnan—a region famous for its enchanting landscapes and blossoms—underscores the emotional contrast between the beauty of the present surroundings and the speaker’s lingering sense of loss. The mention of falling flowers illustrates the passage of time and the fleeting nature of worldly glories.
Ultimately, this short yet evocative poem captures both the joy of reunion and the sorrow of how circumstances can change so drastically. Du Fu deftly links personal sentiment with broader historical shifts, revealing how even the brightest moments can become precious memories shaped by nostalgia and longing. Despite the brevity of these verses, they resonate deeply with anyone who has experienced the bittersweet collision of past and present.
Key points
This poem highlights how cherished recollections can stir both joy and melancholy when revisited in a new setting. Du Fu’s encounter with Li Guinian serves as a poignant reminder that life’s changes—symbolized by falling blossoms—inevitably transform our relationships and environments. Yet, these very moments of reunion offer solace, affirming the enduring power of shared artistry and friendship.
