Poem “Li Sao”, Qu Yuan and the Dragon Boat Festival (LAST DAY)

Poem “Li Sao”, Qu Yuan, and the Dragon Boat Festival 離騷, 屈原, 與端午節

March 29 to September 1, 2024

The poem “Li Sao 離騷” or “The Lament" is the longest known Chinese poem written by Qu Yuan (339-278 BCE) from some 2300 years ago. It is the story of one patriotic person with high morality not being appreciated by the king. He was forced to exile and eventually drowned himself in the river to adhere to his integrity and his ideology that was ahead of his time. Qu Yuan lived during the Warring States period (475-221 BCE) - a time when various regions fought for territory. No one could criticize the king directly in those days, so Qu used symbolism and metaphors to express his ideals. Aromatic plants such as angelica and orchid, which refer to the honorable qualities in a person, are opposite to weeds representing corrupt people.

Qu’s imaginative lyrical lines with compelling power have had an enormous influence over Chinese poetry. He became the first poet with his name attached to his works, and is considered the Father of Chinese Romantic poetry.

Qu wrote “Li Sao” during his exile, and his death inspired the Dragon Boat Festival. This international festival is celebrated in San Diego with a race annually.