Bamboo Branch Song (No. 1) - Liu Yuxi
/竹枝词(其一) - 刘禹锡/
A Reflection by the Riverside
杨柳青青江水平，
Green are the willows; still the river runs.
闻郎江上踏歌声。
I hear my dear one singing upon the stream.
东边日出西边雨，
In the east the sun rises; in the west the rain falls.
道是无晴却有晴。
They speak of no fair weather, yet the sun still shines.
Green are the willows; still the river runs.
闻郎江上踏歌声。
I hear my dear one singing upon the stream.
东边日出西边雨，
In the east the sun rises; in the west the rain falls.
道是无晴却有晴。
They speak of no fair weather, yet the sun still shines.
“Bamboo Branch Song (No. 1)” is a short yet evocative poem by Liu Yuxi, a prominent poet of the Tang Dynasty. Each line paints a vivid picture, weaving natural images with subtle emotions. The mention of green willows, a calm river, and singing across the waters suggests a serene setting filled with gentle affection. The contrast between sunshine in the east and rain in the west signifies the unpredictable nature of life and relationships. Despite the apparent contradictions—such as rain in one direction and sun in the other—the poem concludes that light and hope still prevail.
In traditional Chinese culture, willows and rivers often carry symbolic meanings. The willow’s graceful appearance can symbolize resilience and sorrow, while a river represents the passage of time and the flow of life. In this poem, the tranquility of the river and the vibrant willow trees highlight a sense of harmony, where nature reflects the inner feelings of those in love.
The lines about sun and rain reflect the poet’s observation that circumstances can be mixed—joy and sorrow coexist, much like patches of rain and bright sun. These lines also allude to the fact that although life (and love) may be filled with uncertainties, there is a resilient faith that light will eventually shine through.
Overall, Liu Yuxi’s poem conveys a gentle hopefulness: even in moments of doubt, contentment and clarity can emerge. This interplay between romantic imagery and subtle philosophical reflection is characteristic of Tang poetry, showcasing how beauty in the external world can mirror and illuminate the complexities of human emotion.
Key points
• Nature mirrors human emotions, blending tranquility and longing.
• Contrasts—sun and rain—symbolize the uncertainties of love and life.
• Hope persists, even when situations appear contradictory.
• Concise yet powerful imagery typifies Tang Dynasty poetry.