Wall Hanging with Farewell Poem by Wang Zhihuan

The Meaning and Origin of the Words

This wall hanging with farewell poem is a handcrafted piece featuring Wang Zhihuan’s classical poem “Farewell” (《送别》), a touching expression of parting and longing. The poem is meticulously written on a soft yellow background with an antique finish, evoking a sense of history and timeless beauty. The wall hanging with farewell poem is complemented by my personal signature seal and leisure seal, making it a unique and authentic addition to any space.

Original Poem Text:
楊柳東風樹，青青夾御河。
近來攀折苦，應為別離多。

Translation:
“Willows sway in the eastern breeze, their green branches lining the imperial river.
Lately, there is such pain in plucking their leaves, for farewells have grown so frequent.”

The opening lines describe a vivid springtime scene: willows swaying in the eastern breeze and their green branches lining the banks of the imperial river. The willows, a traditional symbol of parting in Chinese culture, set the tone for the poem. Their graceful movement in the wind evokes the fleeting nature of human connections, and their abundance along the river creates a backdrop for countless farewells. The “御河” (imperial river) implies a setting of grandeur, where many farewells are made, possibly by travelers, officials, or scholars.

In the latter half, the poet shifts to a personal reflection. The act of plucking willow branches, a custom associated with bidding farewell, has become a painful ritual. The phrase “攀折苦” (“pain in plucking”) conveys the emotional burden of repeated separations. The poet suggests that the frequency of farewells has deepened the sorrow, making even a beautiful and meaningful gesture like offering willow branches a source of melancholy.

This poem is a powerful meditation on the human experience of parting. The willows not only symbolize goodbye but also highlight the cyclical nature of farewells—an inevitable part of life. Wang Zhihuan uses simple, natural imagery to express profound feelings, creating a universal resonance that transcends time and culture.

The poem also captures both the beauty of the moment and the sorrow it contains. It reminds us that while farewells are bittersweet, they also carry hope, as the gesture of giving willow branches conveys good wishes for a future reunion.

In traditional Chinese culture, willows are deeply associated with parting because their Chinese name, “柳” (liu), sounds similar to “留” (liu), meaning “to stay.” Offering a branch of willow is a symbolic way to express the hope that the departing friend will remain safe and remembered.

Wang Zhihuan’s “Farewell” resonates with anyone who has experienced the pain of separation. Its elegant simplicity and emotional universality make it a timeless piece of art. By focusing on a small, symbolic act in a larger, majestic setting, the poem captures the delicate balance between individual emotion and the vastness of life. Therefore I wrote the wall hanging with farewell poem for anyone that has the same feeling.

About the Poet

Wang Zhihuan (王之涣, 688–742) was a celebrated poet of the Tang Dynasty, renowned for his evocative and concise style. His works often explore themes of nature, emotion, and human connection. Among his most famous creations is “Climbing the Stork Tower” (《登鹳雀楼》), which embodies his lyrical mastery and philosophical depth.

Why Choose This Wall Hanging with Farewell Poem?

This calligraphy piece makes a meaningful gift or a striking addition to your home or office. Whether displayed as a source of inspiration or as a reminder of the beauty and impermanence of human connections, it carries a profound sense of cultural heritage and artistry.

Celebrate the timeless beauty of Chinese poetry and calligraphy with this unique artwork, where ancient wisdom meets artistic expression!