Synopsis
Climbing Stork Tower is a famous Tang poem by Wang Zhihuan describing the magnificent view from a tower, expressing the spirit of striving for greater heights.
The Poem
The white sun sets behind the mountains. The Yellow River flows into the sea.
To see a thousand miles further, ascend one more floor.
About the Poet
Wang Zhihuan (688-742) was a famous Tang Dynasty poet. Only six of his poems survive, but each is a masterpiece. Climbing Stork Tower is regarded as the finest five-character quatuation in Tang poetry.
Analysis
The poem describes the magnificent scene from atop Stork Tower. The sun sets behind the mountains, the Yellow River rushes toward the sea. The last two lines carry a profound philosophical message: to see further, one must climb higher. This has become a classic expression of aspiration and progress in Chinese culture.
References
- Baidu Baike: Deng Guan Que Lou
- Gushiwen Network
- Tang Poetry Studies
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