“Li Duan’s Zither: Seeking Zhou Lang’s Attention”
Translation and Expansion of “Listening to the Zheng” by Li Duan
Listening to the Zheng
By Li Duan (Tang Dynasty)
The zheng, with its golden-flecked tuning pegs,
Is played by a graceful woman with delicate hands before the jade pillow.
She yearns for Zhou Lang’s attention,
Yet, she deliberately plucks the strings incorrectly.
Expanded Explanation for American Readers
Li Duan’s poem “Listening to the Zheng” is a concise yet evocative depiction of a musical scene and the emotions intertwined with it. The poem not only celebrates the beauty of the zheng, a traditional Chinese stringed instrument, but also reveals the complexities of human desire and the subtlety of courtship.
Context and Meaning
The Zheng and Its Elements
Instrument and Appearance: The zheng is a traditional Chinese zither-like instrument with a rich, resonant sound. In the poem, its “golden-flecked tuning pegs” symbolize the high craftsmanship and aesthetic beauty of the instrument. The “jade pillow” refers to the cushioned rest used to support the zheng while it is being played, emphasizing its luxurious and refined nature.
Delicate Hands: The “delicate hands” of the performer highlight the elegance and skill involved in playing the zheng. The hands are described as “pure” and “white,” suggesting both physical beauty and the refined nature of the music being performed.
Zhou Lang (Zhou Yu)
Historical Reference: Zhou Lang, referring to Zhou Yu, a prominent general and strategist from the Three Kingdoms period, was renowned not only for his military prowess but also for his appreciation of the arts. The term “Zhou Lang” conveys a sense of youthful charm and skill. The poet references Zhou Yu’s reputed musical expertise, noting how even when he was slightly intoxicated, he would notice mistakes in music, highlighting his deep engagement with the art form.
Courtship and Attention
Seeking Attention: The poem reveals that the performer is trying to capture Zhou Lang’s attention by deliberately making mistakes. This act of purposeful error reflects her deep longing for recognition and admiration. By intentionally plucking the strings incorrectly, she hopes to attract Zhou Lang’s gaze and interest.
Symbolism and Emotion
Delicate Balance: The contrast between the zheng’s elegant craftsmanship and the performer’s deliberate mistakes adds a layer of complexity to the scene. It symbolizes the delicate balance between genuine skill and strategic action in courtship and desire.
Cultural Reflection: Li Duan’s poem captures a moment of cultural significance, reflecting how music, beauty, and personal ambition intertwine. The zheng, as an instrument, is not just a source of beauty but also a vehicle for personal expression and emotional communication.
Li Duan’s “Listening to the Zheng” offers a glimpse into the artistry of traditional Chinese music and the emotional subtleties of human interaction. The poem skillfully weaves together imagery of the zheng with themes of courtship and desire, presenting a vivid portrait of a moment when art and personal longing intersect. Through its concise verses, the poem provides insight into the cultural and emotional landscapes of the Tang Dynasty.
By expanding on the context and significance of Li Duan’s poem, this explanation aims to make the cultural and emotional nuances accessible to an American audience, bridging the historical and cultural gaps with clarity and insight.