Song of Geshu
The seven stars of the Northern Dipper shine high;
Geshu wears his sword through the night.
Even now those watching over grazing horses
Do not dare cross beyond Lintao.
Notes
“A singer from the western frontier” is a designation rather than a known personal name. Geshu refers to the Tang general Geshu Han. Lintao is an old place name with differing identifications. The account of frontier activity belongs to its historical context. It has the character of a frontier song and is listed among five-character quatrains in the anthology.
Meaning
Under the Northern Dipper, Geshu Han bears his sword at night; the poem presents his reputation through others’ reluctance to cross Lintao.
Appreciation
The Northern Dipper establishes the night, followed by the general carrying a sword.
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The final lines describe his reputation indirectly through the other side’s reluctance to cross.
Its short lines resemble a song, not a complete account of frontier history.
The author label refers to unnamed western frontier people rather than a confirmed individual.
About the poet
The author is identified only as an unnamed singer or people of the western frontier.
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Song of Geshu is commonly understood as a frontier song. Its individual author, dates and precise place of origin are unknown.