Chinese Idiom: 春风送暖 (Chun Feng Song Nuan)
English Translation: Spring breeze brings warmth
pīn yīn: chūn fēng sòng nuǎn
Idiom Meaning: This idiom metaphorically refers to the positive changes, new policies, or measures that bring about fresh vitality and achievements.
Historical Source: Poem “元日” (New Year’s Day) by Wang Anshi
Idiom Story:
Wang Anshi (王安石), known for his significant contributions to politics and literature, lived during the Northern Song dynasty. He was an advocate for reforms aimed at strengthening the state and improving the people’s livelihood. In the third year of the Jianyou era (1058 AD), he presented a lengthy memorial urging the emperor to implement reforms. By the second year of the Xining era (1069 AD), his new policies began to take shape despite facing strong opposition from conservative factions.
In the seventh year of Xining, due to intense resistance, Wang Anshi had to resign. He returned to his position a year later but resigned again soon after, ultimately retreating to Jiangning (modern-day Nanjing).
During this turbulent period, Wang Anshi penned the poem “元日” to express his feelings about the new year and the progress made in his reform efforts. The poem’s lines are as follows:
爆竹声中一岁除，
春风送暖入屠苏。
千门万户瞳瞳日，
总把新桃换旧符。
Translation:
“In the sound of firecrackers, the old year is gone,
The spring breeze brings warmth, infusing the wine of ‘Tusu.’
With the morning sun shining on countless homes,
Everyone replaces the old peach wood charms with new ones.”
The poem reflects a sense of renewal and celebration, illustrating the joy of bidding farewell to the old year and welcoming the new one. The “春风送暖” line symbolizes the fresh beginnings and positive transformations in society brought about by Wang Anshi’s reforms.
Overall, this idiom conveys the idea of new policies and initiatives that rejuvenate the atmosphere, leading to progress and hope for the future.
