Ume Blossoms
Fantastic China | 2023-01-02 | Views：308
Ume Blossoms
Author: Wang Anshi (1021—1086)
A few ume branches stretch from the corner,
Being the only ones blossoming in the chilly air.
We know those are not snow flakes even from a distance,
For the subtly sweet scent they bear.
Wang is among the so-called “eight best writers of the Tang and Song Dynasties” in Chinese history. He was the prime minister during the reign of Emperor Shen-Zong of the Song Dynasty (960—1279).
The poet used the strong and noble character of the ume blossom as a metaphor for those who, like the poet, are able to uphold integrity and advocate justice despite difficult circumstances.