[Poem] SONG OF THE OLD GENERAL - A Tribute to Enduring Martial Spirit

In “Song of the Old General,” poet Wang Wei celebrates the resilience, courage, and unwavering duty of a seasoned warrior. The poem opens by recounting the speaker’s youthful vigor—conquering enemies and hunting fierce creatures—revealing a lifetime spent on the battlefield. Through evocative imagery of shattered armor and relentless clashes with the Xiongnu, Wang Wei underscores the ceaseless nature of warfare during the Han era. Yet, rather than despair, the poem exudes steadfast determination. Even in old age, the general’s resolution never falters. His past valor is not dimmed by his years; instead, it becomes a source of pride and testament to his capabilities. The poet’s final lines highlight that true honor, symbolized by the “golden seal,” is earned through perseverance and integrity, not merely by youthful prowess. Wang Wei’s words thus serve as both a tribute to martial heroism and a reminder that genuine valor transcends age. Though set in a historical context, the poem conveys universal themes of loyalty, perseverance, and the noble pursuit of defending one’s homeland, making it a timeless reflection on bravery and dedication.