Elegy to a Handsome Commoner
In the serene, moist lowlands of Fen River, there toils a young man, diligently gathering wild vegetables by the water’s edge. He is described with admiration, a figure of such extraordinary handsomeness that it defies comparison with the noble sons of high-ranking officials. This portrayal sets the tone for a reflection on beauty and character in the context of societal expectations and personal admiration.
A Poem of Profound Admiration
The poem, titled “Fen Ju Ru,” offers a deep, evocative portrait of a young man whose appearance and virtues starkly contrast with those of the nobility. It is structured into three stanzas, each beginning with a vivid depiction of the young man’s labor in different locations along the Fen River. Through these scenes, the poem captures not only the physical beauty of the young man but also his admirable qualities and the profound impact he has on the speaker.
Stanza One: The Beauty of Labor
The first stanza opens with a description of the young man working diligently in the low, damp areas of Fen River. He is engaged in gathering wild vegetables, a humble task that contrasts sharply with the grandeur of noble pursuits. The speaker marvels at the young man’s remarkable handsomeness, emphasizing that his physical allure surpasses that of the high-born officials. This admiration is not merely for the man’s looks but also for his hardworking nature, which is portrayed as a virtue that enhances his appeal.
The imagery of the Fen River and the young man’s labor serves as a backdrop to highlight his extraordinary qualities. The poem uses the setting of the Fen River—a place of natural abundance and vitality—as a metaphor for the young man’s own qualities. Despite his modest occupation, his beauty and character are depicted as being beyond the reach of the elite, emphasizing a contrast between societal status and personal worth.
Stanza Two: The Beauty of Character
In the second stanza, the young man is portrayed as busy collecting mulberry leaves on the opposite bank of Fen River. Here, the focus shifts slightly to emphasize his remarkable appearance, which is compared to blooming flowers. This imagery underscores the freshness and vibrancy of his beauty, further distinguishing him from the nobility. The speaker’s admiration is evident in the way the young man’s beauty is described as surpassing that of the officials, who are typically associated with privilege and power.
The repetitive nature of the descriptions in this stanza—comparing the young man’s looks to blooming flowers—serves to highlight the speaker’s deep admiration and affection. The comparison to nature reflects an idealized view of beauty, suggesting that the young man’s attractiveness is both natural and rare.
Stanza Three: The Purity of Virtue
The third stanza shifts the focus to the young man’s collection of water plants, portraying him as a figure of purity and virtue. His character is compared to fine jade, symbolizing his noble qualities and moral integrity. The speaker’s admiration is now directed at the young man’s inner qualities, which are seen as equally extraordinary as his physical appearance.
The comparison to jade, a symbol of purity and virtue in Chinese culture, emphasizes the young man’s esteemed character. This portrayal suggests that his worth is not just in his looks but in his moral and ethical qualities, further contrasting him with the superficial nature of the elite.
Conclusion: The Incomparable Beauty
The final part of the poem brings the narrative full circle by reiterating the exceptional nature of the young man’s beauty and character. The repeated emphasis on his surpassing beauty compared to that of the officials highlights the central theme of the poem: the value of genuine virtue and attractiveness in contrast to social status. The speaker’s admiration for the young man’s beauty and character is portrayed as being profound and unwavering, despite the young man’s humble status.
The poem’s structure—a repetitive and layered presentation of admiration—serves to deepen the impact of its central message. By comparing the young man’s qualities with those of the nobility, the poem effectively underscores the disparity between true worth and social rank. The use of natural imagery and comparisons to valuable materials enriches the portrayal of the young man, making him a symbol of idealized beauty and virtue.
In essence, “Fen Ju Ru” is a poignant reflection on beauty, virtue, and social status. Through its vivid imagery and repetitive structure, the poem celebrates the young man’s exceptional qualities while critiquing the superficial standards of the elite. It invites readers to appreciate the genuine worth of individuals beyond their social standing, highlighting the enduring value of personal integrity and beauty.