Chinese Idiom: 似曾相识 (Si Ceng Xiang Shi)
English Translation: Seems familiar
pīn yīn: sì céng xiāng shí
Idiom Meaning: Refers to a situation where something appears again that one has seen or experienced before.
Historical Source: “Poets’ Jade Fragments” (《诗人玉屑》) compiled by Wei Qingzhi in the Song Dynasty.
Idiom Story:
During the reign of Emperor Ren of the Song Dynasty, there was a renowned chancellor named Yan Shuo, who was known for his literary talents. Many famous officials of the time, including Fan Zhongyan and Ouyang Xiu, came from his circle.
One day, while passing by the famous Daming Temple in Yangzhou, Yan Shuo asked his attendants to recite the poems inscribed on the walls, instructing them not to reveal the author’s status or place of origin. After hearing a particularly impressive poem, he decided to inquire about the author.
This led him to discover a man named Wang Qi, whose poetry was remarkably exceptional. Despite the vast difference in their social status—Yan Shuo being a powerful chancellor and Wang Qi merely a county official’s assistant—Yan Shuo invited Wang Qi to dine and explore the area with him. They engaged in discussions about poetry and literature, with Yan Shuo humbly seeking Wang Qi’s insights.
During their conversation, Yan Shuo mentioned that he often inscribed beautiful lines of poetry on the walls for later refinement. He referenced the line “无可奈何花落去” (It’s unavoidable for the flowers to fall), lamenting the passing of late spring. In response, Wang Qi quickly echoed, “似曾相识燕归来” (The swallows return as if we’ve met before). This line became part of Yan Shuo’s famous ci poem “Huan Xi Sha” (《浣溪沙》), which captures the essence of spring fading and the nostalgic return of the swallows, evoking a sense of familiarity and remembrance.
Impressed by Wang Qi’s talent, Yan Shuo recommended him for a position in the prestigious Jixian Academy, further highlighting the connection formed through their shared appreciation for poetry.
