“Unfulfilled Love’s Regret”
In the rich tapestry of ancient Chinese poetry, themes of love and longing often intertwine with the societal norms and familial obligations of the time. The poem “Zheng Feng · Feng” from the “Book of Songs” poignantly portrays a woman who, bound by her parents’ will, missed her chance to unite with her beloved. This work explores her deep regret and unwavering love, offering a window into the emotional landscape of a woman caught between duty and desire.
Your handsome figure lingers in my mind,
You waited long in the alleyway,
Regret fills my heart for not joining you.
Your robust body stays vivid in my thoughts,
You waited long in the hall,
Regret fills my soul for not going with you.
Clad in brocade garments,
Covered with a splendid robe.
Uncles, elders, come quickly,
Take me in a carriage to him.
Covered with a splendid robe,
Clad in brocade garments.
Uncles, elders, come quickly,
Take me back to him.
The protagonist of this poem is a young woman who, despite her deep love, was unable to marry her beloved due to her parents’ intervention. Her fate is one of sorrow and sympathy, as her love for her suitor has only grown stronger over time, undiminished by the passing years.
“Your handsome figure lingers in my mind,” she begins, vividly recalling her lover’s appearance and the joy his presence brought her. She remembers the times he waited for her, hoping she would join him in matrimony. However, her parents’ change of heart prevented their union, leaving her with a profound sense of regret.
Her lament continues, “Regret fills my heart for not joining you.” These words convey the depth of her remorse for not defying her parents’ wishes. She imagines the happiness they could have shared, now a distant dream. The memories of his patience and her missed opportunities haunt her, intensifying her sorrow.
The poem shifts to her longing for a reunion. “Clad in brocade garments, covered with a splendid robe,” she envisions herself adorned in beautiful attire, ready to be taken to her beloved. This fantasy underscores her desperation and hope that he might still come for her, despite the past.
“Uncles, elders, come quickly, take me in a carriage to him,” she implores, expressing her urgent desire to be with her lover. This plea reflects her yearning for a chance to correct her past mistake and fulfill her love. Her call is both a cry for help and a testament to her enduring affection.
Her longing is palpable in the repetition of her fantasy. “Covered with a splendid robe, clad in brocade garments,” she repeats, emphasizing her readiness and eagerness to reunite with her lover. The imagery of her dressed in finery symbolizes her hope for a happy future, one where they can finally be together.
The poem concludes with another plea, “Uncles, elders, come quickly, take me back to him.” This final line captures her desperation and the intensity of her desire to be with her beloved. Despite her obedience to her parents, her heart remains steadfast in its love, willing to seize any opportunity to be with him.
“Zheng Feng · Feng” is a poignant exploration of love, regret, and hope. The protagonist’s deep emotions and vivid memories bring her story to life, allowing readers to empathize with her plight. Her struggle between filial duty and personal desire highlights the complex dynamics of love and family in ancient China.
In this poem, we see a woman who is both a victim of her circumstances and a symbol of enduring love. Her regret for not defying her parents is matched by her unwavering hope for a reunion with her beloved. This duality of sorrow and hope creates a powerful emotional resonance, making her story timeless and relatable.
The simplicity and directness of the poem’s language enhance its emotional impact. The protagonist’s heartfelt expressions and vivid imagery draw readers into her world, making her feelings of regret and longing palpable. Her repeated calls for a reunion reflect her deep emotional turmoil and her desire for a second chance at happiness.
In conclusion, “Zheng Feng · Feng” offers a compelling portrait of a woman caught between duty and desire. Her deep regret and unwavering hope resonate across the centuries, reminding us of the timeless nature of love and the human condition. This poem not only reflects the emotional depth of its protagonist but also serves as a powerful critique of the rigid societal norms that governed personal relationships in ancient China. Through her story, we are reminded of the enduring power of love and the human spirit’s resilience in the face of adversity.