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Title: Near the Examination for the Water Department
Author: Zhu Qingyu
Poem: Near the Examination for the Water Department
Last night, the red candles in the bridal chamber were lit,
Waiting to greet Aunt and Uncle at dawn.
After finishing her makeup, she softly asks her husband,
"Is the depth and shade of my eyebrow makeup in fashion?"
Explanation of the Poem:
This poem was written by Tang Dynasty poet Zhu Qingyu as he approached the imperial examination, addressed to Zhang Ji, an official in the Water Department. Through the depiction of a bride's situation, it metaphorically reflects his feelings about the upcoming exam.
The line "Last night, the red candles in the bridal chamber were lit" suggests a festive yet tense atmosphere, as the bridal chamber typically refers to the room of newlyweds, with red candles symbolizing celebration.
"Waiting to greet Aunt and Uncle at dawn" indicates that the bride is preparing to meet her in-laws before daybreak, a traditional part of Chinese weddings that expresses anticipation and readiness for the formal occasion.
"After finishing her makeup, she softly asks her husband" shows the bride's humility and regard for her husband's opinion as she inquires about her appearance.
"Is the depth and shade of my eyebrow makeup in fashion?" reflects her concern about whether her makeup aligns with current trends. This line metaphorically represents the poet's worry about whether his work will meet the expectations of the examiners.
Overall, through delicate descriptions and clever metaphors, this poem conveys the poet's tension and anticipation before the examination, as well as his concern for recognition of his work. The language is concise yet emotionally rich, making it one of Zhu Qingyu's notable pieces.
Story Title: "Eyebrow Painting"
Xiaohua's personality does not match her name; she is neither quiet nor weak.
She is clever and articulate, enjoying dressing up in a glamorous manner.
That night, she cuddled with Xiaowen at the head of the bed, feeling a bit excited and unable to sleep.
“Xiaowen, tomorrow I will meet Aunt and Uncle, and I'm so nervous.”
Xiaowen raised his hand to gently rub Xiaohua's head, a smile playing at the corners of his mouth. “What’s there to be nervous about? Ugly brides meeting their in-laws is nothing to worry about.”
Xiaohua playfully hit him. “I’m not ugly! Have you ever seen such a beautiful bride?”
“Yes, yes, yes, you are the most beautiful bride in the world,” Xiaowen said indulgently.
“Xiaowen, do you think Aunt and Uncle will like me?” Xiaohua asked with some concern.
“Of course they will. You’re so outstanding; how could Aunt and Uncle not like you?” Xiaowen replied confidently.
“But what if Aunt and Uncle don’t like me? What should I do?” Xiaohua continued to ask.
“They won’t; just relax,” Xiaowen reassured her.
“But what if? What if Aunt and Uncle don’t like me? What should I do?” Xiaohua pressed on.
“Then you really don’t need to worry because I will always be by your side, supporting you and caring for you,” Xiaowen said seriously.
Xiaohua looked at Xiaowen with gratitude, feeling incredibly sweet inside. She was glad to have found such a loving man.
The next morning, Xiaohua sat in front of the vanity, carefully getting ready. She looked at herself in the mirror, filled with anticipation. She hoped that today’s ceremony would go smoothly and leave a good impression on everyone.
She cautiously picked up an eyebrow pencil and began to shape her brows.
“Xiaowen, do you think the depth of my eyebrows is suitable? Will it make everyone think I’m not dignified enough?” Xiaohua asked softly.
Xiaowen sat on the edge of the bed, watching her with a gentle smile on his face.
“No matter how you dress up, you are the most beautiful. I believe you will impress everyone,” Xiaowen said.
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