Longing in Chang’an – Part One by Li Bai in Tang Dynasty

Li Bai’s poem “长相思·其一” (Cháng Xiāngsī · Qí Yī), set in the ancient city of Chang’an during the Tang Dynasty, portrays a profound longing and yearning for a distant beloved. The poet’s evocative verses capture the essence of separation, loneliness, and the enduring power of love amidst the majestic landscapes and celestial imagery of ancient China.

Li Bai’s poem “长相思·其一” (Cháng Xiāngsī · Qí Yī), penned during the vibrant Tang Dynasty, resonates with an intense longing experienced by the poet in Chang’an, the capital city of that era. This classic work delves deep into themes of love, separation, and the profound emotions that transcend time and place.

The poem opens with a poignant scene where the poet hears the autumn cries of the “络纬” insects by the exquisite “金井阑” (Jīn Jǐng Lán), a finely crafted well railing. These cries echo the poet’s own heartache and yearning. The atmosphere is further heightened by the “微霜凄凄簟色寒” (Wēi shuāng qī qī diàn sè hán), describing the chill of the bamboo mat, symbolizing the coldness and loneliness of the night.

Li Bai paints a vivid picture of his solitary state, illuminated only by a dim lamp that fails to dispel his thoughts of his distant love. He gazes upon the moon through his window, symbolically reaching out to his beloved across the vast distance. The poet’s longing intensifies as he contemplates the beauty of his beloved, envisioning her as if separated by the heavens themselves (“美人如花隔云端！”).

The imagery of “青冥之长天” (Qīng míng zhī cháng tiān), the vast blue sky above, and “渌水之波澜” (Lù shuǐ zhī bō lán), the rolling waves of clear waters below, evokes a sense of awe and wonder, reflecting the vastness of both the physical and emotional landscapes that separate them.

Li Bai’s poignant depiction of the hardships endured in pursuit of love is encapsulated in the phrase “天长路远魂飞苦” (Tiān cháng lù yuǎn hún fēi kǔ), conveying the enduring pain of separation and the arduous journey of the soul. The poet laments that even in dreams, his spirit struggles to traverse the metaphorical “关山难” (Guānshān nán), the difficult mountain passes that symbolize obstacles and challenges in life and love.

The concluding lines “长相思，摧心肝！” (Cháng xiāngsī, cuī xīn gān!) encapsulate the profound emotional impact of longing and yearning, expressing how deeply the poet’s heart and soul are affected by this unrequited love.

In summary, Li Bai’s poem “长相思·其一” captures the essence of timeless longing and emotional depth. Its rich imagery and evocative language resonate with readers across cultures, inviting them to contemplate the universal themes of love, separation, and the enduring human spirit. Through its lyrical beauty and profound insight, this poem continues to inspire and captivate audiences, offering a glimpse into the depths of the human heart and the power of poetic expression.

This exploration of “长相思·其一” by Li Bai serves as a testament to the enduring relevance of classical Chinese poetry, showcasing its ability to transcend temporal and cultural boundaries to touch the hearts and minds of readers worldwide.