Because There Is
Because such beauty waits behind the cloud-patterned screen,
When winter ends in the capital, spring nights bring unease.
Why did she marry a husband wearing the golden turtle badge,
Who must leave the fragrant quilt to attend the early court?
Notes
A cloud screen is an ornamented screen; the precise material is debated. Phoenix City refers to the capital. A golden turtle badge signifies official rank. The husband must leave the bed for an early court audience.
Meaning
The poem places intimacy on a spring night beside the husband’s obligation to rise for court, suggesting regret at time cut short.
Appreciation
An intimate scene begins with an unexpected sense of unease about the spring night.
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The husband’s early court duty contrasts with the warmth of the bed.
The words of complaint are clear, but the poem does not explicitly identify who speaks them.
Broader readings connect the situation with official life; the immediate scene can be read on its own.
About the poet
Li Shangyin (c. 813–c. 858), courtesy name Yishan, was a late Tang poet. His family came from the area of present-day Qinyang, Henan; accounts of his dates differ.
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He served in regional offices and wrote works including The Patterned Zither and poems titled Untitled.
Readers differ on the addressee of Night Rain Sent North and the specific meaning of Chang’e.