1. Reference Essay No. 1
The Vương family's mansion had two beautiful daughters, graceful and both in the prime of youth. The younger sister was Thuy Van, bearing a gentle and dignified beauty. The elder sister, Thuy Kieu, was sophisticated and alluring, surpassing others in both looks and talent. Each had her own charm, both possessing ideal beauty, depicted perfectly in their portraits and impeccable in their demeanor.
On the occasion of Thanh Minh, the Kiều sisters decided to go out for a spring outing. Spring passed quickly like a weaver's shuttle, and suddenly it was already March. The spring weather was warm, no longer the oppressive heat of summer, the chill of autumn, or the cold of winter. In this month, swallows still flew joyfully across the vast sky, bringing the warmth of spring. Hidden beneath the spacious, rich space, the bright, magical rays of spring seemed to radiate a brilliant halo enveloping everything. Even though spring had passed more than sixty days, that light still shone strongly, persistently emanating a strangely peaceful, warm atmosphere. Against this backdrop, a beautiful painting of lush green grass unfolded, bestowed with intense vitality by Mother Nature. The vibrant green color, lush and vigorous, seemed to sway and flourish, pouring life into the deep blue sky, vast and boundless. The carpets of grass stretched out like a grand bridge connecting the earth to the sky, harmonizing to enjoy the joyful atmosphere of spring. The blue of the sky and the green of the grass seemed to paint a sweet, vibrant spring picture in the hearts of people.
In that vast space, the pure white color of trembling pear blossoms stood out. It was the white color—the life of spring—that made people feel as if they were witnessing the birth of life, awakening after a long winter slumber. The white color symbolized purity, clarity, and if absent, spring would no longer be as refreshing and gentle as before. That white color embellished the spring picture. The harmonious blend of green and white created a picture as if it were opened up to the height of the sky, the breadth of the green fields, and gathered near a newly blooming pear blossom. Faced with such a poetic scene, how could one's heart not be moved? Opening one's heart to the melodious rhythm of spring, the springtime of nature seems to awaken the springtime of the human heart.
Along with the rhythm of spring, the Kiều sisters also joined the flow to go on a pilgrimage, enjoying the festival. On the occasion of Thanh Minh, people visited graves, paid respects, and renovated the graves of their loved ones. The joyful atmosphere was even more lively when the festival-goers were all 'talented gentlemen and beautiful ladies,' young men and women. On the narrow road, horses and carriages bustled, everyone wanting to spend time in the warm spring weather to remember their ancestors and show gratitude for the sacrifices of the deceased. Incense was lit, and gold and paper money were scattered like bridges connecting the yin and yang to remind descendants never to forget their past, their roots. It was a beautiful tradition of our ancestors passed down through generations.
As time passed, the sun gradually leaned towards the west, and dusk spread across the land and sky. Twilight spread gently across the morning's rosy sunlight, leaving behind faint rays on the countless branches, blurred by the sun's rays. The two sisters Kiều walked slowly, gently, gracefully, as if they still regretted a spring day. In the twilight, instead of the bustling, vibrant atmosphere of the day, there was a peaceful, serene atmosphere that touched the heart. The two sisters walked on the path along a small stream, winding like a silk strip. At the end of the slope was a bridge stretched across like a poetic line on earth and sky.
The spring evening scene was tinged with a hint of sadness, a bit faded. Thuy Kieu felt her heart fluttering, quieting down in thoughts, feeling compassionate before an ownerless grave. The spring outing for her was not just about admiring the earth and sky, taking into her heart a love for nature, but also about opening her heart to embrace the pure sounds of love, stirring in human affection...


2. Reference Essay No. 3
Over 60 days have swiftly passed since the arrival of spring. In the March Clearing Festival, the sky is clear and expansive. In this spacious and pure atmosphere, warm sun rays blanket everything, making all living beings vibrant with life. In the blue sky, flocks of swallows dance joyfully like kites. On the ground, lush green grass stretches far and wide, seemingly reaching the horizon. Amidst the greenery, some pear trees with their green leaves stand out, adorned with clusters of pure white, robust blossoms. It's truly a remarkably beautiful spring painting.
Preparing for the Clearing Festival, just like every year, the Kiều sisters ask permission from their parents to visit the graves and enjoy the spring. Thúy Vân and Thúy Kiều choose their most charming outfits as both of them have reached marriageable age this year. Vân has a round, plump face, as auspicious as the full moon, revealing pearly white teeth whenever she smiles. Kiều has eyes as clear as autumn ponds, her gaze profound and enchanting. Among the two sisters, she is the one with exceptional literary and artistic talents. Besides her musical skills, Kiều is also a talented poet. Anyone who has heard her song 'Silver Fate' can't help but feel sympathy. The sisters adorn their hair with sparkling hairpins, enhancing their graceful and charming appearance, drawing admiring glances from passersby. Vương Quan, the studious and gentle scholar, accompanies the two sisters.
The road to the crowded cemetery is packed with people, seemingly leaving no empty space. The elderly, the young, men, and women, everyone is dressed beautifully, in silk clothes, with cheerful and radiant faces. They are all like talented and elegant gentlemen and ladies. Some ride horses straight-backed, while others sit in carriages, red and golden palanquins, exuding grandeur, followed by servants carrying gold and incense offerings. Familiar faces greet each other warmly, with discreet nods and smiles exchanged between young men and women, hinting at secret agreements. They come here to tidy up their ancestors' graves, expressing their gratitude and praying for good luck and peace. They respectfully make offerings before the tombstones and bow deeply. The scent of incense fills the air, adding to the warm and festive atmosphere. Some families burn gold paper, and the wind carries the ashes swirling above everyone's heads before gently falling down, golden paper and red paper scattered everywhere for their deceased relatives. After the ceremonial rituals with their ancestors, groups of young men and women gather together, playing games on the grass, teasing each other and laughing.
Time passes swiftly, and the sun gradually sets in the west. The rosy morning sun has given way to faint rays left on the tree branches, a myriad of fading sunbeams. Farewells are said reluctantly, with promises to meet again next year, as everyone seems to lament how quickly the joyous day has passed. After the bustling morning, the space returns to tranquility, with only the lingering scent of incense here and there. Seeing the two sisters lingering, reluctant to leave, Vương Quan urges:
- It's getting late, we should go back, dear sisters.
As if waking from a dream, Kiều takes Vân's hand, and the two walk away, gently, gracefully. In the twilight, a peaceful and serene atmosphere pervades. The two sisters follow a small stream, willow trees on either side like the hair of a girl. At the end of the hill is a small bridge, adding a touch of charm to the scenery.
In the distance, on the water's surface, a faint mist spreads, inadvertently stirring emotions in Kiều's heart. Suddenly, she feels as if something very important is about to happen, something pure and exciting, yet also faintly melancholic, a feeling she cannot quite grasp...


3. Reference Article 2
Time flies! Today is already the Clearing Festival. Time seems to fly by like a shooting star; in the blink of an eye, two months have passed, and now it's the third month - the final month of spring. Oh, the scenery of the March spring is incredibly beautiful! Everywhere is covered in the fresh green color of grass. That green seems to stretch endlessly, covering the earth all the way to the distant horizon, painting everything in that shade of green. Adorning this vast expanse of greenery are the pure white blossoms of pear trees. The harmonious combination of these two wonderful colors adds vividness, radiance, and vitality to the spring landscape.
Today is the grave-visiting festival, and people from everywhere have gathered here to take care of their ancestors' graves. Thúy Kiều, Thúy Vân, and Vương Quan join the crowd to pay their respects. It's a bustling and lively scene. All social classes are present, from the talented and elegant to the ordinary people. Everyone is dressed in colorful attire, creating a vibrant and colorful festival day. People, some trimming grass, others tidying graves or polishing tombstones, all bustling about. After visiting the graves, they burn gold and silver paper, and the wind carries the ashes swirling around. Everyone gathers to light incense for their ancestors' graves.
As evening falls and the sun sets in the west, people start to leave one by one. The Kiều siblings walk hand in hand, lost in thought, along the twilight-filled path. How peaceful and tranquil the scenery is, with only the sound of birds singing and the murmuring of streams echoing softly. The three siblings quietly enjoy the serenity of the twilight, their hearts filled with nostalgia for the lively spring festival day. In the distance, there's a small bridge spanning a ravine. Another peaceful day has passed...


4. Reference Article 5
Spring days swiftly pass like the wind, in the blink of an eye, two months have passed, and now it's the third month - the last month of spring. The light of spring is gentle, clear, spreading everywhere. In the high sky, spring swallows sway and glide. Below, an endless expanse of green grass stretches far and wide. Atop this fresh green carpet are the pear blossoms, adding a touch of purity and freshness. The harmonious combination of these two wonderful colors makes the spring landscape more vivid, radiant, and full of life.
Today is the grave-visiting festival, a cultural beauty symbolizing gratitude and respect for ancestors by tidying their family graves. As usual, Thúy Kiều and Vương Quan ask for permission from their parents to visit the graves and go out to enjoy spring, and all three join the crowd.
It's a bustling, lively scene. People from all walks of life are present, from the talented and elegant to ordinary folks. Some ride horses or carriages with attendants, while others are busy in colorful attire, creating a vibrant and colorful festival day. People, some trimming grass, others tidying graves or polishing tombstones, all bustling about. After visiting the graves, they burn gold and silver paper, and the wind carries the ashes swirling around. People light incense at their ancestors' graves.
As evening falls and the sun sets in the west, people start to leave one by one. The Kiều siblings walk hand in hand, lost in thought, along the red twilight path. How peaceful and tranquil the scenery is, with only the sound of birds singing and the murmuring of streams echoing softly. The three siblings quietly enjoy the serenity of the twilight, their hearts filled with nostalgia for the lively spring festival day. In the distance, there's a small bridge spanning a ravine. Thus, another peaceful day passes by!


5. Reference Article 4
The Vương mansion has two extraordinarily beautiful daughters who have just come of age: the elder, Thuý Kiều, and the younger, Thuý Vân. Thuý Vân, the younger, is a graceful and gentle girl, kind-hearted and dignified. Thuý Kiều, the elder, possesses a captivating charm, exuding elegance and allure. Not only does she surpass others in beauty, but Thuý Kiều also possesses the renowned talent for composing the famous melody, 'Silver Destiny.'
The fleeting spring has passed, more than 60 days have elapsed, and now it is the third month - the final month of spring. The spring sunlight is gentle, serene, spreading across the landscape in a soft, golden hue, creating an impression that is both gentle and impressive. In this beautiful spring atmosphere, the sisters, Thuý Kiều and Thuý Vân, immerse themselves in the bustling crowd, enjoying the festive spirit of spring.
During the Clear and Bright festival in March, the sky is adorned with swallows gliding gracefully, welcoming the new spring, a new year of joy and tranquility. Beneath the vast sky, the sunbeams pierce through the clouds to bring the warmth of spring to the young men and women, to those who are immersed in the spring atmosphere. Below, the ground is covered in lush green grass, stretching endlessly to the horizon, as the green grass receives the sunlight, illuminating the dewdrops on the grass, creating a sparkling and romantic scene. Amidst this space are clusters of delicate white pear blossoms, adding purity and freshness to the spring painting.
Like many other young girls and boys, the sisters Thuý Kiều and Thuý Vân enthusiastically participate in the spring festival. The two sisters joyfully select and don their most charming outfits for the occasion. The road to the Tomb-sweeping ceremony is crowded with people, young and old, couples, all dressed neatly and tidily, their faces radiant and cheerful. Along the way, the streets are bustling with activity, people greeting each other respectfully, showing their respect for their elders and bonding through these greetings.
The young men and women converse together, admiring the beautiful moments of spring. Not only for the festival, but also for the Clear and Bright festival, people visit and repair the tombs of their ancestors, praying for blessings for their families. The smell of incense permeates everywhere, enhancing the atmosphere of the lively festival. Some households burn gold paper, and the gold ashes float in the sky, the gold notes made of red paper scattered everywhere to honor the departed. Couples gather together, playing and chatting on the lush green grass under the vast sky.
Time passes quickly, the festival's bright sunshine giving way to the faint rays of dusk. People bid farewell to each other, promising to meet again next year, feeling that the festival has passed too quickly. The festival fades away, returning to its inherent tranquility, leaving only the lingering scent of incense and the fluttering gold notes carried by the wind. The two sisters Kiều still linger in the memories of the festival, gently walking through the serene and romantic evening scenery.
As the spring evening approaches, a hint of sadness fills Kiều's heart as she thinks and sympathizes with the ownerless grave, the Thúy Kiều's spring outing is not only a feeling of joy but also a feeling of pity for the ownerless grave and thoughts about her future, the space is still vast and open, making people feel peaceful and relaxed.


