Encounter with Fengzhuo in Chang’an by Wei Yingwu in Tang Dynasty

Wei Yingwu’s poem “长安遇冯著” (Cháng’ān Yù Féngzhùo), composed during the Tang Dynasty, recounts a meeting with his friend Fengzhuo from the eastern regions. As Fengzhuo arrives, rain from Bagong adorns his garments. Curious about his purpose, Wei learns Fengzhuo has come to purchase axes for mountain woodcutting. Amidst the silent blossoming of flowers and the graceful flight of newborn swallows, the passing of another spring since their last farewell leaves Wei pondering the strands of silver in his hair.

Wei Yingwu’s poetic work “长安遇冯著” (Cháng’ān Yù Féngzhùo), set in the bustling capital of Chang’an during the prosperous Tang Dynasty, encapsulates a poignant encounter between the poet and his friend Fengzhuo. This reflective composition not only portrays the beauty of natural imagery but also delves into the passage of time and the complexities of human relationships.

The poem opens with Fengzhuo’s arrival from the eastern lands (“客从东方来”), marked by rain from Bagong lingering on his attire (“衣上灞陵雨”). Bagong, known as Baqiao in present-day Xi’an, holds historical significance as the burial site of Emperor Wen of Han, later renamed Bagong during the Tang era. This reference enriches the poem with cultural depth, illustrating how nature’s elements subtly connect distant lands.

Wei Yingwu’s inquiry into Fengzhuo’s purpose (“问客何为来”) reveals that Fengzhuo has journeyed to Chang’an to procure axes for woodcutting in the mountains (“采山因买斧”). This utilitarian motive contrasts with the poetic setting, emphasizing the practical realities amidst the poetic contemplation of nature’s seasonal rhythms.

The poet’s vivid descriptions evoke a sense of natural tranquility and renewal. He observes the silent blossoming of flowers (“冥冥花正开”) and the graceful flight of newborn swallows (“飏飏燕新乳”), symbolizing the timeless cycle of life and the beauty found in nature’s harmonious processes. These images serve to underscore the contrast between the transient human existence and the enduring vitality of the natural world.

Wei Yingwu’s reflection on the passage of time (“昨别今已春”) poignantly captures the fleeting nature of life. The phrase “昨别” refers to their parting last year, now contrasted with the arrival of another spring (“今已春”). This juxtaposition prompts Wei to contemplate the changes wrought by time, symbolized by the strands of silver appearing in his hair (“鬓丝生几缕”). This imagery of aging serves as a poignant reminder of mortality and the inevitability of change, resonating with readers across cultures and generations.

The enduring appeal of “长安遇冯著” lies in its ability to transcend temporal and cultural boundaries, offering readers a glimpse into the universal themes of friendship, nature’s beauty, and the contemplation of mortality. Wei Yingwu’s masterful use of language and imagery invites introspection, encouraging readers to reflect on their own experiences of connection, separation, and the passage of time.

In conclusion, Wei Yingwu’s poem “长安遇冯著” continues to captivate audiences with its evocative portrayal of a chance encounter in the ancient capital. Through poetic language that is both simple and profound, Wei invites readers to explore themes of friendship, nature’s beauty, and the poignant awareness of life’s transience. This timeless work serves as a testament to the enduring power of poetry to illuminate the human experience and evoke a deep sense of empathy and understanding across cultures.