Love Knows No Distance: Lessons from Ancient Chinese Poetry

“The flowers of the Chinese rose(1) sway to and fro(2). Don’t you miss them? The room is far away(3).” The Master said, ‘You haven’t thought about it, so how could you miss it?’

[Notes]

(1) Chinese rose: a plant in the Rosaceae family, a deciduous shrub.

(2) sway to and fro: describes the way the flowers sway.

(3) The room is far away: it’s just that the place where I live is too far away.

Translation

An ancient poem reads, “The flowers of the Chinese rose tree swayed. How could I not miss you? It’s just that my home is too far away.” Confucius said, “He still doesn’t really miss

it. If he really missed it, what’s so far away?”

In the rich tapestry of Chinese literature, ancient poetry often serves as a window into the cultural and philosophical ethos of its time. One such piece that encapsulates profound wisdom is an excerpt from a classical Chinese poem, accompanied by Confucius’ insightful commentary.

The Poem:

“唐棣之华，偏其反而。岂不尔思，室是远而。”

Translation:

“The blossoms of the pear tree sway gently. How could I not think of you? It is just that my home is far away.”

This verse beautifully captures the wistfulness of separation and the yearning for a loved one. The imagery of the pear blossoms swaying in the breeze evokes a sense of gentle melancholy, reflecting the poet’s deep longing.

Confucius’ Wisdom:

Confucius, the revered Chinese philosopher, commented on this poem, saying, “He still does not truly miss her. If he really did, what distance could there be?” This statement delves into the nature of true longing and love. According to Confucius, genuine longing transcends physical distance. If the feeling is strong and sincere, no separation is insurmountable.

Cultural Context:

In ancient Chinese culture, poetry was more than just an artistic expression; it was a means of conveying complex emotions and philosophical ideas. The reference to the pear tree (唐棣) is symbolic. Pear blossoms, delicate and ephemeral, often represented transient beauty and the bittersweet nature of love.

Modern Reflection:

Confucius’ commentary on the poem offers timeless wisdom. In today’s world, where technology bridges distances instantly, the essence of his message remains relevant. True emotional connection surpasses physical boundaries. Whether it’s a loved one far away or a dream we aspire to achieve, genuine desire and commitment can overcome any obstacle.