Zhang Hu’s Poem on Jinling Ferry in Tang Dynasty

In the tranquility of a night spent at the small tower by Jinling Ferry, travelers find themselves burdened with the weight of wanderlust. With the tide receded, the night river bathes in the slanting moonlight, and distant lights twinkle like stars over Guazhou.

The poem “题金陵渡” (Tí Jīnlíng Dù) by Zhang Hu, a poet of the Tang Dynasty, captures a poignant moment of introspection during a traveler’s night at Jinling Ferry. Located near present-day Zhenjiang in Jiangsu Province, Jinling Ferry was historically a bustling port along the Yangtze River, renowned for its strategic importance in transportation and trade.

Zhang Hu begins by describing his night’s lodging at a small tower overlooking Jinling Ferry. The mention of “小山楼” (xiǎo shān lóu), a small tower, evokes an image of a solitary, contemplative place where travelers pause to rest and reflect on their journeys. This setting provides a backdrop for the poet’s musings on the transient nature of travel and the emotional turmoil it often brings.

The poet laments the restlessness that accompanies travel, as expressed through the phrase “一宿行人自可愁” (yī sù xíng rén zì kě chóu), meaning “A night’s stay, and travelers feel melancholy.” This sentiment resonates with anyone who has experienced the bittersweetness of being away from home, yearning for familiarity while simultaneously embracing the allure of exploration.

Zhang Hu’s description of the night scenery further enhances the poem’s atmospheric depth. He observes the receded tide of the river, bathed in the soft glow of the slanting moonlight (“斜月里”), casting a serene yet melancholic ambiance. This imagery not only captures the beauty of the natural world but also reflects the poet’s inner turmoil and longing.

The mention of “两三星火是瓜州” (liǎng sān xīng huǒ shì guā zhōu) adds a layer of mystery to the scene. “星火” (xīng huǒ), or star-like lights, twinkling in the distance suggest human habitation or activity across the river at Guazhou. Historically, Guazhou served as a vital hub for water transport and trade along the Yangtze River, symbolizing connectivity and commerce across distant lands.

In conclusion, Zhang Hu’s poem “题金陵渡” (Tí Jīnlíng Dù) is a lyrical exploration of travel, longing, and the transient nature of human experience. Through evocative imagery and poignant reflections, the poet invites readers to contemplate the emotional complexities of journeys, both physical and spiritual. The poem’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to resonate with universal themes of wanderlust, nostalgia for home, and the profound beauty found in moments of solitude amidst natural landscapes.

This timeless work continues to captivate readers across cultures, offering a glimpse into the emotional landscapes of travelers throughout history and inviting reflection on the shared human experiences of longing and exploration. Zhang Hu’s poetic craftsmanship in “题金陵渡” serves as a testament to the enduring power of literature to transcend time and cultural boundaries, touching the hearts and minds of readers who seek meaning in their own journeys through life.