The dragon coils and tiger crouches amid the trees;
The sky-scraping imperial tomb can't but fall down.
The hill's still green with grass when blows the autumn breeze,
But the passers-by worship only the new crown.
Original Poem:
「途经秦始皇墓」
许浑
龙盘虎踞树层层，势入浮云亦是崩。
一种青山秋草里，路人唯拜汉文陵。
Interpretation:
This poem, written by the Tang Dynasty poet Xu Huan, describes his experience passing by the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang and uses this encounter to compare the historical figures of Qin Shi Huang and Emperor Wen of Han. The tyrannical rule of Qin Shi Huang and the benevolent governance of Emperor Wen are portrayed as symbols through which the poet critiques history and power. The description of the tombs serves as a medium for the poet to express his views on the contrasting governing philosophies of these two emperors.
First Couplet: “龙盘虎踞树层层，势入浮云亦是崩。”
(The area of Yecheng, with its majestic dragon-like and tiger-like formation, surrounded by layers of trees, seems to exude the grandeur of heaven and earth. Yet, this towering imperial tomb ultimately cannot escape the fate of collapse.)
These lines describe the grandeur of the tomb of Qin Shi Huang and the impermanence of history. By using the word "崩" (collapse), the poet shatters the initially magnificent image, suggesting that even a powerful ruler like Qin Shi Huang cannot escape the erosion and decline of time. Through this stark contrast, the poet criticizes the tyrannical rule of Qin Shi Huang.
Second Couplet: “一种青山秋草里，路人唯拜汉文陵。”
(Between the green mountains and autumn grass, the passing travelers only respectfully bow before the tomb of Emperor Wen of Han.)
This couplet contrasts the tombs of Qin Shi Huang and Emperor Wen of Han. Though both tombs are situated in the mountains, it is the tomb of Emperor Wen that commands the respect of the people, emphasizing his reputation for benevolent governance. In contrast, Qin Shi Huang's tyrannical rule leaves no such reverence, highlighting the stark difference in their legacies.
Writing Characteristics:
- Clear contrast: The poet uses the tombs of the two emperors to vividly contrast their political styles. The tyrannical rule of Qin Shi Huang and the benevolent governance of Emperor Wen form a sharp juxtaposition.
- Emotional penetration: The poet infuses his personal feelings into the depiction of the landscape, especially in the use of the word "崩" to express deep dissatisfaction with Qin Shi Huang’s tyranny.
- Concise commentary: Through succinct language, the poet reveals the rise and fall of history, using the evaluation of the two emperors to reflect his own historical and moral views.
- Artistic expression: The poem combines natural imagery and historical events, showcasing a writing style that blends profound commentary with beautiful, emotional expressions.
Overall Analysis:
On the surface, this poem seems to simply describe a historical site, but it actually reveals deep lessons from history. Through the use of the word "崩" (collapse), the poet not only critiques Qin Shi Huang's tyranny but also reflects on the impermanence of power in history. In contrast, the tomb of Emperor Wen symbolizes benevolent rule and governance that is loved by the people. Through this comparison, the poet fully showcases the political styles and historical impacts of the two emperors. Although the poem seems to focus on historical figures, it actually delves into the relationship between power and history, expressing outrage at tyranny and nostalgia for benevolent governance.
About the poet:
Xu Hun (许浑), c. 791 - 858 AD, was a Tang Dynasty poet, a native of Danyang, Jiangsu Province. He was one of the most influential poets of the Late Tang Dynasty. His poems are characterized by nostalgia for ancient times and idyllic poems, in which he describes the scenery of water and rain.
