Introduction

This article is focused on the poetry of Hengshan or Mount Heng in Hunan province, China. Hengshan is one of the Five Great Mountains of China and has been an important site for Chinese poets and literati throughout history. Many renowned poems have been written about Hengshan, with its natural beauty serving as inspiration for writers time and time again.

History of Mount Heng

Mount Heng is also called Nanyue Hengshan or South Mount Heng. It has a long history and cultural heritage, making it an important site for tourism and exploration in China. The mountain has often been used as a place of retreat and meditation by Buddhist monks and Taoist masters throughout history, and thus, has been held in high regard in Chinese culture. Hengshan is also famous for being the place where Emperor Yan, one of the earliest Han Chinese rulers, was buried.

The Beauty of Hengshan

Hengshan has been described by many poets as a place of breathtaking beauty. The mountain is covered in lush vegetation and towering trees, providing a haven for wildlife and birds. The greenery is complemented by the stunning views of the surrounding valleys, which can be enjoyed from the mountaintop. The beauty of Hengshan has inspired Chinese poets since ancient times, with many famous poems having been written about the mountain.

Famous Poems about Hengshan

1. Li Bais "Ascending South Mountain"

Summary

"Ascending South Mountain" is a poem written by Tang Dynasty poet Li Bai in which he describes his journey up the mountain, taking in the stunning scenery along the way.

Poem Excerpt

"The mountain paths are narrow and hard to navigate, The gorge is deep and dark, verdant trees sway in the wind. Occasionally, a monkey or two pass by and on hearing ones voice, They stop to look around and see this strange human." 2. Du Fus "A Song of Ascending Mount Heng Alone"

Summary

"A Song of Ascending Mount Heng Alone" is a poem written by Tang Dynasty poet Du Fu in which he describes his ascent up the mountain, accompanied by nobody but his thoughts and reflections.

Poem Excerpt

"The trail climbs upward, endlessly it goes, The rocky cliffs loom up, precarious are their tip-toes. I turn to rest, and look at the heights that Ive scaled, Nought arouses my feelings, my soul is in deep exhale." 3. Wang Weis "Climbing Mount Heng on an Autumn Day"

Summary

"Climbing Mount Heng on an Autumn Day" is a poem written by Tang Dynasty poet Wang Wei in which he describes his journey up the mountain in the autumn, when the leaves have turned golden and red.

Poem Excerpt

"The mountain faces westward, its autumn everywhere, Leaves drift into the river along breezes in the air. Clear water runs endlessly down the sheer cliffs, A stone monkey sits idly, playing in the mist."

Conclusion

Hengshan has been the subject of many famous poems throughout Chinese history. Its natural beauty, cultural importance, and historical significance have made it a worthy muse for poets of all generations. Through the vivid descriptions and imagery presented in these poems, readers can get a sense of the timeless and majestic qualities that make Hengshan such an inspiring and enchanting place.