Do not compare your leaves with tumbleweed in hue!
On Mountain-climbing Day our head's adorned with you.
When poolside shores are sweet with your blooms wet with dew,
None envy pine-like plants high on the eaves in view.
Original Poem:
「菊」
郑谷
王孙莫把比蓬蒿，九日枝枝近鬓毛。
露湿秋香满池岸，由来不羡瓦松高。
Interpretation:
Although the poem is titled "Chrysanthemum," it does not directly mention the flower but captures its essence in every line. The poet praises the chrysanthemum’s unique qualities—its purity, elegance, and unwavering spirit—while subtly critiquing societal norms and values, especially the tendency to overlook true talent.
First Couplet: Nobles and princes, do not mistake the chrysanthemum for common weeds, On the ninth day, its branches near the hair on temples, bright and neat.
The first line admonishes aristocrats for their ignorance, mistaking chrysanthemum shoots for common Artemisia weeds. This criticism transcends the literal level, symbolizing disdain for those who fail to recognize true talent.
The second line celebrates the chrysanthemum’s transformation by the Double Ninth Festival (the ninth day of the ninth lunar month), when people adorn their hair with its flowers. The poet highlights the chrysanthemum’s distinct value and beauty, contrasting it with the ordinary weeds.
Second Couplet: Dew moistens its autumn fragrance, filling the shores of the pool, It has never envied the height of parasitic roof-grown sedum, small and cruel.
The third line vividly describes an autumn morning scene: chrysanthemums glistening with dew, their petals radiant, exuding fragrance that fills the poolside. The word “湿” (moistened) evokes the dew-laden petals, emphasizing their freshness and brilliance. The word “满” (fills) captures the fragrance’s pervasive quality, enhancing the sensory imagery.
The final line contrasts the chrysanthemum with the roof sedum (瓦松), a parasitic plant growing on high eaves. While the sedum occupies an elevated position, it lacks usefulness and substance. The chrysanthemum, growing humbly by the poolside, exudes fragrance and embodies integrity and selflessness. The phrase “由来不羡” (has never envied) underscores the chrysanthemum’s noble and independent character, elevating the poem’s theme.
This poem masterfully combines vivid imagery, subtle critique, and profound symbolism. The chrysanthemum is both a literal subject and a metaphor for the poet’s inner virtues. Each line resonates with the poet’s emotions, creating a timeless ode that elevates the chrysanthemum to a symbol of moral integrity and spiritual purity.
Poem translator:
Xu Yuan-chong (许渊冲)
About the poet:
Zheng Gu (郑谷), circa 851 AD - 910 AD, was a famous poet at the end of the Tang Dynasty, a native of Yichun, Jiangxi Province. Zheng's works focused on nature and objects, characterized by a fresh and accessible style.
