What does "忘忧草" (wangyoucao) mean?
A comprehensive explanation of the meaning and symbolism of wangyoucao (daylily), a green ornamental plant. Here is a detailed introduction to follow.
Wangyoucao, also known as daylily, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Hemerocallis genus of the Liliaceae family. In traditional Chinese culture, wangyoucao carries rich meanings and symbolic significance. It is not only a plant in nature but also a cultural symbol that embodies people's emotions and desires.
I. The origin of the name "Wangyoucao" The earliest mention of wangyoucao can be found in "The Book of Songs · Wei Style · Bo Ai": "Where can I find the xuancao, to plant it behind?" Here, "xuancao" refers to wangyoucao. There are various explanations for the origin of the name. One is that before the flowers of wangyoucao bloom, the petals are tightly wrapped together, resembling worried brows, but when the flowers open, the petals unfold, as if worries dissipate, hence the name "wangyoucao." Another explanation is that during the blooming process, wangyoucao emits a special fragrance that can make people forget their troubles, thus earning the name "wangyoucao."
II. The symbolism of Wangyoucao The symbolism of wangyoucao is mainly reflected in the following aspects: 1. Forget worries and relieve sorrow: The name itself implies the meaning of "forgetting worries," symbolizing the forgetting of troubles and the relief of sorrow. In the poems and songs of ancient scholars, wangyoucao is often used to express the longing for a better life and the transcendence of worries and sorrows. 2. Symbol of maternal love: In ancient China, wangyoucao was also known as the "Mother's Flower," symbolizing the greatness and selflessness of maternal love. According to "Compendium of Materia Medica," wangyoucao "when eaten, makes one joyful and forgets sorrow, hence the name wangyou." It was believed in ancient times that wangyoucao could make people forget their worries and be happy, and was often used as a metaphor for a mother's care and protection for her children, making them forget their troubles and grow happily. 3. Symbol of love: The flower language of wangyoucao is "forgotten love," symbolizing the loyalty and eternity of love. In ancient literary works, wangyoucao is often used to express the persistent pursuit of love and the deep思念 for one's beloved.
III. The symbolic meaning of Wangyoucao The symbolic meaning of wangyoucao is mainly reflected in the following aspects: 1. Wangyoucao symbolizes happiness and joy. The flowers of wangyoucao are bright and beautiful, giving a visual pleasure. Moreover, the fragrance of wangyoucao can make people forget their troubles and be happy, symbolizing joy and happiness. 2. Wangyoucao symbolizes maternal love and family. In traditional Chinese culture, wangyoucao is considered a symbol of motherhood, representing the greatness and selflessness of maternal love. It also symbolizes the warmth and depth of family, implying harmony and happiness in the family. 3. Wangyoucao symbolizes the loyalty and eternity of love. The flower language of wangyoucao is "forgotten love," symbolizing the unchanging loyalty and eternity of love. In ancient literary works, wangyoucao is often used to express the persistent pursuit of love and the deep思念 for one's beloved.
IV. The application of Wangyoucao in literature and art As a plant rich in cultural connotation, wangyoucao has been loved by scholars and artists since ancient times, becoming an important material in literary and artistic creation. In ancient poems and songs, wangyoucao is often used to express the longing for a better life, the transcendence of worries and sorrows, and the praise for maternal love and love. 1. The application of wangyoucao in ancient poems. In ancient poems, wangyoucao is often used to express the poet's longing for a better life and the transcendence of worries and sorrows. For example, in Bai Juyi's "Ode to the Ancient Grass on the Prairie": "The grass on the prairie, dies and revives every year. The wild fire cannot burn it out, the spring breeze blows and it grows again. The far-reaching fragrance invades the ancient road, the bright greenery connects the desolate city. Sending off Wangsun again, the parting sentiment is full." The poem uses wangyoucao as an image to express the poet's sentiment of parting and the longing for a better life. 2. The application of wangyoucao in ancient songs. In ancient songs, wangyoucao is often used to express the praise and admiration for maternal love and love. For example, in Liu Yong's "Rain Drop Melody · Cold Cicada Chime": "The cold cicada chimes, facing the long ting in the evening, the sudden rain has just stopped. The drink in the capital tent is listless, lingering, the orchid boat urges to leave. Holding hands and looking into each other's tearful eyes, we are speechless. Thinking of the departure, the thousand-mile misty waves, the dusk haze is heavy in the Chu sky. The affectionate always hurt at parting, how can one bear the desolate clear autumn! Where will I wake up from drinking tonight? By the willows, the dawn breeze and the waning moon. From now on, for years, the good time and beautiful scenery are in vain. Even if there are a thousand kinds of emotions, to whom can I tell them?" The song uses wangyoucao as an image to express the sentiment of parting and the praise for maternal love and love. 3. The application of wangyoucao in ancient paintings. In ancient paintings, wangyoucao is often used as an embellishment to enhance the beauty and artistic conception of the painting. For example, in Zhao孟頫's "Wangyoucao Sketch," the painting uses wangyoucao as the theme, supplemented by elements such as mountains and streams, presenting a peaceful and harmonious natural scene, implying the longing for a better life and the transcendence of worries and sorrows.
In summary, as a plant rich in cultural connotation, wangyoucao has rich meanings and symbolic significance in traditional Chinese culture. It is not only a plant in nature but also a cultural symbol that embodies people's emotions and desires. Through an in-depth understanding and study of wangyoucao, we can better comprehend the breadth and depth and unique charm of traditional Chinese culture.
The above content about the meaning and symbolism of wangyoucao is provided for your comprehensive understanding and reference!