“Love in the Wild”

Introduction: A Glimpse into Ancient Romance

The poem “Wilds Have a Dead Roe Deer” from the “Book of Songs” (Shijing) is a unique piece of Chinese literature that portrays the natural and sincere expressions of love between a young man and a woman in ancient times. The poem offers a vivid description of a scene where the man carefully wraps a dead roe deer in white rushes, presenting it to the woman he loves. This symbolic act, along with the candid interactions between the characters, provides a glimpse into the social customs and attitudes toward love and courtship in early Chinese society.

The Symbolism of the Deer and the Rushes

The poem begins with the image of a dead roe deer wrapped in white rushes. In ancient Chinese culture, presenting a deer, especially wrapped in rushes, symbolized purity and respect. The act of offering such a gift indicates a deep affection and respect for the recipient. The man’s careful wrapping of the deer shows his reverence and sincere intentions towards the woman. The comparison of the woman to the white rushes emphasizes her purity and beauty, suggesting that she is as gentle and delicate as the natural materials used to wrap the gift.

A Playful Pursuit in the Wilderness

The poem continues with a playful scene where the young man and woman interact in a candid and affectionate manner. The man’s pursuit of the woman, accompanied by teasing and laughter, highlights the natural and unpretentious approach to love during that era. The woman’s reactions, including her shyness and playful admonitions, reflect a youthful innocence and genuine affection. Her words, urging the man to be gentle and avoid making noise, not only show her modesty but also reveal her enjoyment of the attention and affection she receives.

This portrayal of courtship stands in contrast to later periods in Chinese history when strict Confucian values often constrained expressions of love and affection. In this poem, love is portrayed as a natural and sincere emotion, untainted by societal restrictions or moral judgments. The openness and simplicity of the characters’ interactions highlight the authenticity of their feelings and the naturalness of their courtship.

The Cultural Context of the Poem

“Wilds Have a Dead Roe Deer” is a reflection of a time when social norms were more relaxed, and expressions of love were more direct and unrestrained. The poem is believed to date back to the early Zhou dynasty, a period when Chinese society was transitioning from a slave society to a feudal one. During this time, social customs were not yet rigidly defined by Confucian principles, allowing for a more open and natural expression of human emotions, including love and desire.

The use of animals like roe deer and the act of gifting them during courtship had significant cultural implications. Deer were considered noble animals, often associated with beauty and grace. In the poem, the gifting of the deer symbolizes a form of courtship, indicating the man’s serious intentions towards the woman. This cultural nuance adds depth to the poem, showing that the man’s actions are not just playful but also deeply respectful and meaningful.

A Celebration of Natural Love

The poem’s candid depiction of love is notable for its celebration of natural human emotions. The young man and woman are portrayed as sincere and honest in their feelings, without any pretense or artificiality. The poem’s narrative voice does not judge or moralize the characters’ actions, but rather presents them as a natural and beautiful aspect of human life.

The simplicity and directness of the poem’s language further emphasize the purity and authenticity of the emotions portrayed. The poem’s straightforward narrative style, combined with its vivid imagery, creates a powerful and evocative portrayal of love. The repeated references to natural elements, such as the white rushes and the roe deer, reinforce the theme of naturalness and purity.

Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of “Wilds Have a Dead Roe Deer”

“Wilds Have a Dead Roe Deer” is a timeless piece that continues to resonate with readers for its honest portrayal of love and courtship. The poem’s depiction of love as a natural and sincere emotion, free from societal constraints, offers a refreshing perspective on human relationships. It serves as a reminder of the universal nature of love and the enduring appeal of natural and genuine expressions of affection.

In appreciating this poem, it is important to consider the cultural and historical context in which it was written. Understanding the social norms and values of the time can provide deeper insights into the poem’s themes and symbolism. Ultimately, “Wilds Have a Dead Roe Deer” stands as a celebration of love in its purest form, capturing the beauty and simplicity of human emotions in a way that transcends time and culture.