I always love Chinese literature, verse or prose alike. Even though I do come across some ancient texts from time to time, studying them carefully is another matter altogether. Having to appreciate the words and then, translate them into intelligible English forces me to finally give up my casual attitude.
“Li sao” has been compared with Dante’s Divina Commedia. The length—over three hundred and seventy verses without division—alone is a challenge to the first-time reader. The juxtaposition of reality and fantasy, references to historical figures and ritualistic practices all add to the complexity of the work. Preserved in Han characters, the poem was written in the regional language of Chu. There are numerous rarely used words, some archaic and some unique to Chu region. Among these words I found flora and fauna of Qu Yuan’s world.
His symbolic usage of plants has been widely studied. The species had been catalogued. Yet, his vivid and detailed references to the flowers and herbs led me to a different world, filled with exuberant colors and pungent scents.
I was glad to find many familiar plants: peonies, hibiscus, magnolia, orchids, and waterlilies.
The climate of Chu is warm and humid, favorable for the survival of vermin and the spread of diseases. Aromatic plants, especially those with medicinal benefits, are essential items for daily life. From Qu Yuan’s words, we knew that shamanistic ritual played an important role in his life. He must have collected some of these herbal plants for his altar.
Having written two posts related to Chu poetry, I started planning the following installment. My thoughts, however, still lingered over the colors, shapes, and scents from that garden of fantasy. Clearly, I should put them in words.
Interestingly, in addition to the most common species, many plants in “Li sao” can be found in today’s gardens or in the wildness in various parts of the world. With the increasing popularity of herbal medicine, most of Qu Yuan’s herbs have found their way into North American marketplace. 宿莽/xiǔ mǎnɡ, illicium lanceolatum, commonly known as Chinese star anise, was condemned by Qu Yuan because of its poisonous fruits. With waxy dark green leaves, small red flowers, and fruits, it is planted as a landscaping shrub in the States.
In the ancient garden of Chu, I found a perfect sanctuary for my soul during this tumultuous time.