Chinese Idiom: 春风得意 (Chun Feng De Yi)
English Translation: In the spring breeze, one feels accomplished
pīn yīn: chūn fēng dé yì
Idiom Meaning: This idiom describes a state of happiness and satisfaction when things are going well, often after achieving success or experiencing good fortune.
Historical Source: Poem by the Tang dynasty poet Meng Jiao (孟郊) titled “登科后” (After the Examination).
Idiom Story:
Meng Jiao, a poet from Wukang (modern-day Deqing County, Zhejiang), lived during the Tang dynasty after the An Lushan Rebellion, a time when the country faced turmoil and hardship. He had a challenging life and struggled for many years to pass the imperial examination, facing multiple failures that left him in poverty. His poetry often reflected his frustrations and aspirations.
At the age of forty, in the twelfth year of the Zhenyuan era (706 AD), Meng Jiao finally succeeded in passing the imperial examination in Chang’an. Overwhelmed with joy, he rode through the streets of Chang’an, allowing his thoughts to wander freely. In this moment of elation, he composed the following lines:
昔日龌龊不足夸，
今朝放荡思不涯。
春风得意马蹄疾，
一日看尽长安花。
Translation:
“The troubles of the past are unworthy of boasting,
Today, I am carefree and my thoughts are boundless.
In the pleasant spring breeze, my horse gallops swiftly,
In one day, I seem to see all the flowers of Chang’an.”
The poem expresses his overwhelming happiness and relief at finally achieving his dreams. The phrase “春风得意” captures this sense of triumph and joy, symbolizing the flourishing of life and prospects, much like the rejuvenation that spring brings to nature.
After passing the examination, Meng Jiao was appointed as a local official but soon resigned to return home, which adds a layer of complexity to his story, reflecting both the fleeting nature of success and the enduring spirit of aspiration.
