Chinese Idiom: 顾曲周郎 (Gu Qu Zhou Lang)
English Translation: The attentive listener, Zhou Lang
pīn yīn: gù qǔ zhōu láng
Idiom Meaning: This idiom praises individuals who are knowledgeable or passionate about music and performing arts. “顾曲” (gù qǔ) refers to carefully listening to music, while “周郎” (zhōu láng) is a reference to Zhou Yu, a famous figure from the Three Kingdoms period known for his musical talents.
Historical Source: Houcun Quanjiji (《后村全集·哭孙李蕾二首(其一)》) by Liu Kezhuang, Song Dynasty.
Idiom Story:
Zhou Yu (周瑜), a prominent military strategist and politician during the Three Kingdoms period, was renowned not only for his military prowess but also for his exceptional musical talent. He possessed a keen ability to appreciate and critique music, making him a notable figure in both warfare and the arts.
One famous anecdote recounts an occasion when Zhou Yu was listening to a performance. Even after indulging in a few drinks, he was able to detect the slightest mistakes in the music being played. Whenever he noticed an error, he would subtly glance at the performer, signaling them to correct their mistake. This meticulous attention to detail earned him the nickname among the people: “曲有误，周郎顾” (When there is a mistake in the music, Zhou Lang will notice).
This saying not only highlights Zhou Yu’s expertise in music but also signifies the deep appreciation and understanding of art among those who are knowledgeable in it. Consequently, the idiom “顾曲周郎” has evolved to refer to music critics or connoisseurs – individuals who possess a refined understanding and passion for music and drama.
