“Du Fu’s Elegy: Farewell to General Fang”

Translation and Expansion of “Farewell to the Tomb of General Fang” by Du Fu

Farewell to the Tomb of General Fang

By Du Fu (Tang Dynasty)

In foreign lands, I keep on moving,

Stopping my horse to bid farewell to your lonely grave.

Nearby, the tears have dampened the soil,

And the sky above is filled with broken clouds.

I used to play chess with you, much like the elegance of Xie An,

Now, standing by your tomb, I feel like Ji Zi parting from Xu Jun.

I can only see fallen flowers in the woods,

And hear the sorrowful cry of the oriole sending me off.

Expanded Explanation for American Readers

Du Fu, a prominent Tang Dynasty poet, is renowned for his profound and poignant reflections on life, friendship, and loss. “Farewell to the Tomb of General Fang” captures his deep sense of mourning and nostalgia as he bids farewell to a revered figure.

Context and Meaning

General Fang: Refers to Fang Guan, an esteemed historical figure whose grave is the focus of this poem. Du Fu’s elegy reflects his respect and sorrow for the loss of such a person.

Themes of Departure and Mourning:

Exile and Departure: The poem begins with Du Fu’s lament about his continuous travels and the weariness of being in foreign lands. His journey brings him to the tomb of General Fang, where he stops to mourn. This setting underscores the theme of departure and the emotional burden it carries.

Emotional Landscape: The poet describes how his tears have made the nearby soil damp, illustrating his deep sorrow. The image of broken clouds in the sky mirrors his inner turmoil and sense of loss. This metaphor evokes a somber and reflective mood.

Chess and Friendship: Du Fu reminisces about playing chess with General Fang, likening the companionship to that of historical figures known for their grace and wisdom. Xie An, a revered statesman known for his composure and cultural refinement, is used as a comparison to highlight the high regard in which Du Fu holds General Fang.

Historical Allusions: The reference to Ji Zi (Ji Zha) parting from Xu Jun alludes to a historical anecdote where Ji Zha, a nobleman, left a cherished sword with a friend who had passed away. This allusion emphasizes the poet’s profound respect and sense of loss, akin to the act of leaving a treasured possession behind as a tribute.

Nature as Witness: The poem concludes with the imagery of fallen flowers and the sorrowful cry of the oriole, which reflects the natural world’s response to the poet’s grief. This use of nature to convey emotions connects personal loss with the broader, timeless cycle of life.

Du Fu’s elegy not only mourns the loss of General Fang but also reflects on the transitory nature of life and the enduring bond between friends. Through vivid imagery and historical references, the poem offers a deeply emotional and universal experience of grief and remembrance. This expanded explanation provides American readers with a deeper understanding of the poem’s historical context, vivid imagery, and underlying philosophical themes. The juxtaposition of serene natural beauty and the yearning for a carefree life invites readers to reflect on their own desires for freedom and contentment.