Introduction to classical Chinese (part 2)
Lesson 2: Advanced Syntax and Poetic Forms in Classical Chinese
Welcome to the second lesson in our series on Classical Chinese (Wenyan) for English speakers with a background in Mandarin. Building on our initial foray into syntax, grammar, and vocabulary, this session delves deeper into sentence structures and introduces the rich world of Classical Chinese poetry.
1. Advanced Syntax
Classical Chinese often employs brevity and allusion, making its syntax significantly different from both English and Modern Mandarin. Understanding these differences is crucial for interpreting classical texts accurately.
Inversion and Omission
Inversion: Unlike the more rigid structure of Modern Mandarin, Classical Chinese frequently uses inversion for emphasis or poetic effect.
Example:
山高水长 (Shān gāo shuǐ cháng) - The mountains are tall, the waters long.Omission: Subjects, objects, or verbs can be omitted if they are understood from context.
Example:
月明星稀 (Yuè míng xīng xī) - The moon is bright, the stars are sparse. (Here, the verb “are” is omitted.)
2. Grammar: Particles and Fixed Expressions
Additional Key Particles:
而 (ér): Indicates a transition or connection between two clauses.
Example:
日出而作，日入而息。 (Rì chū ér zuò, rì rù ér xī.) - Work at sunrise, rest at sunset.乎 (hū): Often used at the end of a question or to indicate location or approximation.
Example:
天上何所有？ (Tiān shàng hé suǒyǒu?) - What is there in the heavens?
3. Expanding Vocabulary: Nature and Emotions
Classical Chinese poetry is filled with natural imagery and expressions of emotion, providing a rich source of vocabulary.
Nature Terms:
- 山 (shān): Mountain.
- 水 (shuǐ): Water, river.
- 云 (yún): Cloud.
Emotion Terms:
- 喜 (xǐ): Joy.
- 怒 (nù): Anger.
- 哀 (āi): Sorrow.
Examples in Sentences:
Classical Chinese:
高山流水遇知音。 (Gāoshān liúshuǐ yù zhīyīn.)Translation: High mountains and flowing water find a true friend.
Classical Chinese:
云长在天，情深似海。 (Yún cháng zài tiān, qíng shēn sì hǎi.)Translation: Clouds linger in the sky, emotions deep as the sea.
4. Exploring Classical Poetry
Poetry is a cornerstone of Classical Chinese literature. This lesson features a famous poem to illustrate poetic techniques and themes.
春望 (Chūn Wàng) - Spring View
Translation:
The country is broken, yet the mountains and rivers remain,
The city in spring, the grass and trees grow thick.
Moved by the season, flowers bring tears,
Sad at parting, birds startle the heart.
Exercises:
- Translate the poem into Modern Mandarin, maintaining its poetic elements.
- Identify the use of inversion and omission in the poem.
- Discuss the emotional contrast between the poem’s beginning and end.
I hope this lesson deepens your understanding and appreciation of Classical Chinese, especially its poetic tradition. Enjoy your journey into the heart of ancient literature!
Additional Vocabulary for Classical Chinese
| Classical Chinese | Modern Mandarin | Pinyin | English Translation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | |||
| Summer | |||
| Autumn | |||
| Winter | |||
| Day/Sun | |||
| Moon | |||
| Star | |||
| Sea | |||
| Mountain | |||
| River |
This list expands your vocabulary related to nature, a common theme in Classical Chinese literature and poetry.