In the Jade Terrace Style
Last night my skirt ribbon came loose;
This morning a little spider floated by.
I must not put aside my powder and makeup:
Could it be that my husband is returning?
Notes
Jade Terrace style refers to a tradition of poetry about intimate life. A small spider was once treated as a sign of good news. Powder means makeup; gaozhen is an old indirect term for a husband. The signs express a character’s hope rather than a reliable prediction.
Meaning
A loosened ribbon and a little spider are taken as hopeful signs that an absent husband might return.
Appreciation
Two small signs appear in quick succession from last night to this morning.
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Preparing makeup leads to a hopeful question about a husband’s return, not confirmation that he has arrived.
The traditional signs reveal the character’s expectations rather than predicting an outcome.
Longing is conveyed through everyday details rather than a direct explanation.
About the poet
Quan Deyu (759–818), courtesy name Zaizhi, was a Tang writer and official from Lueyang in Tianshui.
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Quan Deyu held court office and wrote poetry and prose. His works include farewells, poetic responses and scenes of personal life.