《琴歌》 - 李颀

This poem by Li Qi, titled "Qin Ge" (琴歌) or "Harp Song," captures the atmosphere of a gathering where a skilled musician performs for an appreciative audience. Through vivid imagery and evocative language, the poet paints a picture of the music's captivating power and the emotional impact it has on the listeners.

《琴歌》
作者：李颀

主人有酒欢今夕，请奏鸣琴广陵客。
月照城头乌半飞，霜凄万树风入衣。
铜炉华烛烛增辉，初弹渌水后楚妃。
一声已动物皆静，四座无言星欲稀。
清淮奉使千余里，敢告云山从此始。

The host has wine, let's rejoice tonight, Invite the Guangling guest to play his harp.

Moonlight shines on the city walls, crows fly in half flight, Frost chills ten thousand trees, wind enters my clothes.

Bronze brazier, bright candles, their radiance grows, First he plays "Lu Shui," then "Chu Fei."

One note, and all creatures fall silent, Four seats are speechless, stars begin to fade.

Bound for Qinghuai on a thousand-mile mission, I dare to say, this is where the clouds and mountains begin.

The opening lines set the scene: "The host has wine, let's rejoice tonight, / Invite the Guangling guest to play his harp." The mention of wine and the invitation to the Guangling guest, a renowned musician, establish a sense of anticipation and excitement for the musical performance.

The following lines describe the setting: "Moonlight shines on the city walls, crows fly in half flight, / Frost chills ten thousand trees, wind enters my clothes." The imagery of moonlight, crows, frost, and wind creates a picture of a cold and desolate winter night, contrasting with the warmth and conviviality of the gathering.

The next lines focus on the music itself: "Bronze brazier, bright candles, their radiance grows, / First he plays 'Lu Shui,' then 'Chu Fei.'" The description of the bronze brazier and bright candles suggests a well-lit and intimate atmosphere. The mention of the two specific pieces, "Lu Shui" and "Chu Fei," both ancient Chinese harp melodies known for their melancholic beauty, hints at the emotional depth of the music.

The impact of the music is captured in the following lines: "One note, and all creatures fall silent, / Four seats are speechless, stars begin to fade." The imagery of the silenced creatures, the speechless guests, and the fading stars emphasizes the music's profound effect on the listeners, transporting them to a realm of tranquility and emotional resonance.

The final lines express the poet's personal connection to the music: "Bound for Qinghuai on a thousand-mile mission, / I dare to say, this is where the clouds and mountains begin." The mention of the Qinghuai mission suggests that the poet is embarking on a long journey. The final line, comparing the musical experience to the beginning of a journey amidst clouds and mountains, conveys a sense of awe, inspiration, and the transformative power of art.

"Qin Ge" stands as a testament to the enduring power of music to evoke emotions, stir imaginations, and connect individuals to a deeper sense of beauty and meaning.