[Poem] LONGING - A concise glimpse into heartfelt yearning

“Longing” (also known as “Red Beans”) by Wang Wei is a timeless four-line poem from the Tang Dynasty, illustrating the poignant emotion of separation and longing. The central symbol is the “red bean,” traditionally believed to represent deep affection or remembrance in Chinese culture. These beans, which grow in southern parts of China, sprout anew each spring, mirroring how love and devotion revive with the changing seasons.

Wang Wei addresses a friend or loved one, urging them to gather these red beans, as each one is laden with the meaning of heartfelt yearning. While the poem is deceptively simple, it conveys a powerful sentiment: that physical distances need not diminish emotional ties. The red beans become tangible tokens of devotion, embodying the intangible feelings of love and nostalgia.

As a hallmark of classical Chinese poetry, this piece marries nature’s cycles with human emotions. Springtime rejuvenation parallels the renewal of tender thoughts, reminding us that even in times of absence or separation, feelings of closeness can be kept alive. Wang Wei’s refined language and delicate imagery continue to resonate across centuries, affirming that some emotions are universal. Though short, “Longing” speaks to the heart’s capacity for enduring affection, and remains a beloved classic, frequently cited in discussions of Chinese poetic tradition.