Tang Dynasty
赋得古原草送别
离离原上草，一岁一枯荣。
野火烧不尽，春风吹又生。
远芳侵古道，晴翠接荒城。
又送王孙去，萋萋满别情。
Translation
Thick grasses spread across the ancient plain; each year they wither once and flourish once again. Wildfire cannot burn them away; when the spring wind blows, they rise anew. Their distant fragrance creeps over the old road; under clear skies, green color reaches the deserted city. Once more I send a noble traveler away, and the lush grass is filled with the feeling of farewell.
Analysis
This poem was written as a regulated examination-style piece, yet Bai Juyi turns the assigned subject into a deeply memorable meditation on life and farewell. The grass on the ancient plain becomes more than scenery: it is a symbol of persistence, renewal, and the endless extension of parting sorrow. The first half focuses on vitality. Grass withers and flourishes year after year. Even wildfire cannot destroy it completely; when the spring wind returns, it grows again. These lines are simple, but their force lies in that simplicity. They describe a natural cycle while suggesting the stubborn resilience of life. The second half shifts toward farewell. The grass spreads over old roads and reaches deserted cities. Roads imply travel and separation; ruined cities suggest the passage of time. Against this vast green setting, the act of sending someone away becomes emotionally fuller. The final line gathers the whole poem into the image of lush grass filled with parting feeling. Bai Juyi’s language is clear and accessible, but the poem carries both symbolic depth and emotional warmth.
About the Author
Bai Juyi was one of the most important poets of the Tang dynasty. Courtesy name Letian, he advocated poetry that was clear, accessible, and connected to real life. His works range from socially conscious poems such as “The Charcoal Seller” to long narrative masterpieces such as “Song of Everlasting Sorrow” and “The Pipa Song.” His style is known for plain language joined with emotional depth. “Grass on the Ancient Plain: A Farewell” is an early work that already shows his gift for clarity and resonance.