1. Essay on the patriotic spirit in 'Bình Ngô đại cáo' number 4
The work 'Bình Ngô đại cáo' by Nguyễn Trãi is not only an eternal masterpiece but also the 'second declaration of independence' for the Vietnamese people. The proclamation expresses Nguyễn Trãi's deep love for the country, his sense of patriotism, and his humanitarian ideals, reflecting the collective spirit of the Vietnamese people.
Through his writings, Nguyễn Trãi demonstrates a deep compassion for the people, advocating for their importance, their right to independence, and their need for respect and recognition. He emphasizes that the Vietnamese nation has a long-standing and independent culture that is not dependent on foreign powers. His assertion highlights the pride of the Vietnamese people and their need to protect their cultural heritage from foreign invasion. The essay powerfully expresses his deep love for the country and his fierce hatred of invaders, celebrating the victory and resilience of the nation.
Nguyễn Trãi's philosophy of humanity, rooted in his belief that true justice must first ensure peace and prosperity for the people, is evident throughout the text. His stance is clear: the primary duty of the ruler is to ensure the welfare of the people, and to rid the land of oppression. The humanitarian ideal is not just a philosophical notion, but a guiding principle of action. He draws a clear line between the duty to protect the people and the necessity of defeating the enemy, symbolized by the 'Ming forces,' who oppressed and exploited the Vietnamese people. Nguyễn Trãi’s message is clear: protect the people and their sovereignty, even at the cost of confronting brutal foreign invaders.
In his vision, the struggle against tyranny is not just about military might but about moral integrity and humanistic principles. As the essay illustrates, Nguyễn Trãi's commitment to his ideals led to a series of victorious battles, where his eloquent political rhetoric often outshone the force of arms, making the enemy 'surrender without a fight'. Yet, even in victory, Nguyễn Trãi's compassion remained, offering clemency to those who surrendered and choosing reconciliation over vengeance.
This blend of patriotism, humanism, and ethical governance is a cornerstone of Nguyễn Trãi’s legacy, representing the enduring spirit of the Vietnamese people and the timeless values that guide their nation’s survival and prosperity.
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2. The Essay Analyzing Patriotism in 'Bình Ngô Đại Cáo' No. 5
'Bình Ngô Đại Cáo' is an expression of Nguyễn Trãi's patriotism and showcases his extraordinary talent in writing heroic literature. His deep affection for the people, respect for them, and his dedication to their well-being are consistent themes in his works. These ideas are at the core of Nguyễn Trãi's nationalism. His understanding of the people stems from a profound recognition of their significance, developed through his direct experiences. When emphasizing the importance of the people, Nguyễn Trãi reflects on the historical reality of the nation, asserting that a nation is inseparable from its people. The country exists for its people, and the people need a nation. In his declaration of Vietnam’s identity, Nguyễn Trãi emphasizes the enduring cultural traditions of the nation:
“Our Đại Việt from the past,
Has long been known for its civilization,
The mountains and rivers define our borders,
The customs of the North and South are distinct.”
This statement underscores the independence of Vietnam’s civilization and the clear boundaries of its land. It challenges the erroneous northern claims that Vietnam was created by them, including their assertion that our culture mirrors theirs. This is utterly false. The distinct customs between the North and South demonstrate that Vietnam has always developed independently, preserving its identity through the ups and downs of history. The claim that the North taught us civilization is therefore misguided. This argument highlights the nationalistic spirit and deep love for the homeland that Nguyễn Trãi champions, reminding the people to defend their land against any foreign invaders.
'Bình Ngô Đại Cáo' serves as a formal declaration of the nation's independence, celebrating the nation’s culture with pride. The work is a second declaration of independence, presenting Nguyễn Trãi’s profound love for the people, his hatred for the invaders, and his indomitable spirit in the face of Vietnam's victories in their struggle to preserve their sovereignty.
The primary message of the work is that the people's support is the foundation of victory. Nguyễn Trãi believed that the ultimate source of strength came from the people’s will. His commitment to this belief, along with his humanity and love for the country, is reflected in his declaration:
“The essence of humanity lies in ensuring the people's peace,
Military action is necessary to eradicate tyranny.”
The invaders, who stole from the people and imposed harsh conditions, were far from humane. They brutally exploited the population: “Roasting the poor on fiery coals,
Burying innocent children in the depths of misery.”
The outrage of Nguyễn Trãi was intensified by the foreign rulers who plundered the nation’s resources, imposed heavy taxes, and forced the people into life-threatening labor, treating their lives as worthless as the trees and plants. They forced individuals to dive into the sea to collect pearls, at the mercy of sharks, or into dangerous mountains to mine for gold, enduring poisonous waters and treacherous conditions.
The cruelty reached such extremes that:
“The destruction reached even the insects and plants,
The impoverished and helpless were left behind,
The burdens were heavy, and livelihoods were shattered.”
Anyone witnessing the devastation of the land and the suffering of the people would be moved with deep sorrow. The nation was being trampled, the people brutally oppressed. The heartbreak of seeing families torn apart, wives losing husbands, children suffering, entire ecosystems destroyed, production halted, and the people in poverty is impossible to ignore. This same love for the country, this shared compassion for the people, is what drove Nguyễn Trãi and stirred the spirits of all Vietnamese citizens. It united them in the struggle against foreign invaders. This solidarity, emphasized by Nguyễn Trãi, reflects the central role of the people in overcoming adversity and highlights their importance in achieving victory.
Nguyễn Trãi’s humanistic philosophy is encapsulated in his assertion of the people’s right to peace and prosperity:
“Humanity begins with ensuring peace for the people.”
For Nguyễn Trãi, ensuring the people’s well-being was not just a principle, it was his lifelong goal. His work consistently reflected his belief that:
“If the people are content, the nation will thrive.”
This idea of peace and prosperity for the people was central to his thought. The core of this philosophy was not abstract but practical—focused on protecting the people and fighting tyranny. Nguyễn Trãi knew that achieving peace meant defeating the enemies of the people, the invaders who caused suffering. The enemy, the Ming forces, were ruthless in their exploitation of the population, and Nguyễn Trãi described the horrific impact of their actions:
Their crimes were so heinous that “No amount of water could cleanse the East Sea of their filth,”
And their evil could not be described even by the toughest bamboo from the southern mountains.
This was a new development in Nguyễn Trãi’s thinking about humanity, a perspective that was rooted in the real historical experiences of the Vietnamese people. His unique interpretation of humanity, based on the context of Vietnam’s national struggle, stands in contrast to the Confucian philosophy of human relations that did not recognize the justifiable violence necessary to defeat invading enemies.
At its core, the humanistic ideology of Nguyễn Trãi advocates for justice and mercy, even towards the defeated. The strategy of using both wisdom and compassion—“military strategy, psychological warfare”—was central to his approach to war. As a strategic advisor in the Lam Sơn Uprising, Nguyễn Trãi’s powerful rhetorical skills often “defeated the enemy without a battle,” forcing them to submit. Even after the invaders surrendered, the Vietnamese people showed mercy, offering them a safe return home:
“We did not seek to harm them,
Instead, we showed mercy and gave them a way to return.”
This approach not only prevented future conflict but also exemplified the ideals of humanity and compassion, demonstrating that the victory was not just military but moral.
The core message of 'Bình Ngô Đại Cáo' is that the strength of the Vietnamese people lies in their unity, their shared love for their country, and their unwavering determination to preserve their sovereignty. The text reflects the values that define Vietnamese society—values of justice, peace, and respect for human life. It is a timeless declaration of independence, asserting Vietnam’s right to self-determination and its place in the world. The work stands as an enduring symbol of the power of the people in shaping their own destiny, and a testament to the enduring ideals of patriotism and national pride.
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3. An Analysis of the Patriotic Spirit in "Bình Ngô Đại Cáo" - Section 6
Patriotism has been a central theme in Vietnamese literature for centuries. In the early stages of national literature, this theme was explored as a reflection of the pride of every Vietnamese citizen. Works such as "Nam Quoc Son Ha" by Ly Thuong Kiet, "Pho Gia Ve Kinh" by Tran Quang Khai, and "Bach Dang Giang Phu" by Truong Han Sieu can be cited, not to mention the famous "Dai Cao Binh Ngo" by Nguyen Trai. The following excerpt from this well-known text not only profoundly expresses the author's patriotism but also inspires profound reflections on the concept of love for the country: "The essence of human righteousness lies in keeping the peace for the people... The evidence remains." This excerpt, "The Waters of Dai Viet", is taken from Nguyen Trai's "Binh Ngo Dai Cao". The proclamation was written at the end of 1427 and the beginning of 1428, after Le Loi and the Lam Son army had defeated the invading Ming forces. The victory of this uprising not only cleansed the shame of losing the country under the Ho dynasty but also ended the oppressive occupation and cruel policies imposed by the Ming invaders. Emerging from this context, "Binh Ngo Dai Cao" chronicles the more than twenty years of struggle, the suffering endured by the people, and the victorious and heroic defeat of the enemy. At the conclusion of the proclamation, Nguyen Trai declared the enduring independence of the nation to the world, raising the banner of human righteousness among mankind.
If "Nam Quoc Son Ha" by Ly Thuong Kiet is considered the first declaration of independence of the Vietnamese people, then "Binh Ngo Dai Cao" by Nguyen Trai serves as the second grand declaration. The excerpt "The Waters of Dai Viet" is the clearest representation of this declaration.
The excerpt begins with the proclamation of righteousness in the essay: "The essence of righteousness lies in keeping the peace for the people. The army's first duty is to eliminate the oppressors." This implies that the fundamental duty of righteousness is to ensure peace for the people, and the primary task of the military is to eliminate the tyrants for the sake of the people's welfare. These two lines affirm the progressive thought of prioritizing the people as the foundation of society. In ancient feudal society, the concept of righteousness was often limited to doing good deeds and helping others, as seen in "The Tale of Luc Van Tien" by Nguyen Dinh Chieu, where righteousness is about saving those in distress. However, Nguyen Trai, as a military strategist advising the king Le Loi, had a more comprehensive and profound understanding. Ultimately, righteousness means loving the people, ensuring they live peaceful, prosperous lives. Furthermore, soldiers, traditionally seen as protectors of the king's power, are here depicted as fulfilling a sacred, noble duty—"to eliminate oppression" for the peace and stability of the land. This perspective could only come from a great patriot and lover of the people.
Drawing from his deep compassion for the people, Nguyen Trai possessed a profound love for the country and a strong sense of national pride. In "Nam Quoc Son Ha", the poet had affirmed the country's independence in terms of territory, land, and governance. Now, Nguyen Trai further solidified these elements to assert the proud self-determination of the Vietnamese people: "The waters and mountains of Dai Viet have long been distinct. We have had a long-standing cultural history. Our borders and customs have been defined. From the Triệu, Đinh, Lý, and Trần dynasties, we have built and maintained our independence. With the Han, Tang, Song, and Yuan, each called themselves emperors in their own lands. Despite fluctuations in strength, the heroes of our nation have always emerged." This illustrates that the waters and mountains of Dai Viet are distinct, with a culture of historical depth and continuity. "The cultural heritage" signifies the wisdom, beliefs, and ethical values created by the people over time. It represents the civilization of the nation. Not only is there a unique cultural identity, but the Vietnamese territorial boundaries have also been well-established: "Our rivers and mountains are distinct." This line echoes the sentiment from the 1076 poem: "The waters and mountains of Nam are ruled by the king of Nam / The celestial book confirms our sovereign right." The unique territorial boundaries of Vietnam are ingrained in the consciousness of its people. This sacred understanding has also shaped the customs and traditions of the two nations, which have evolved distinctly.
The independence of the nation is not solely based on its unique culture and territorial sovereignty, but also on the leadership of its dynasties and the exceptional individuals who shaped its destiny. "From the Triệu, Đinh, Lý, Trần dynasties, the foundations of our independence were laid. Alongside the Han, Tang, Song, and Yuan, each claimed imperial status over their respective regions. Despite occasional shifts in power, the heroes of our nation have always risen." These lines highlight the equal status of Vietnamese rulers with those of neighboring powers. The term "Emperor" is used strategically to assert the equal sovereignty of the Vietnamese kings. Historically, the emperors of China considered themselves the "Sons of Heaven", calling themselves "Emperors" while labeling foreign rulers as "Kings". In this proclamation, Nguyen Trai proudly states that Vietnamese kings are also "emperors", asserting equality and rejecting the concept of a subordinate nation. Moreover, by mentioning the Vietnamese dynasties before their Chinese counterparts, Nguyen Trai conveys a strong sense of national pride.
While emphasizing the greatness of the nation's rulers and dynasties, Nguyen Trai also acknowledges the presence of exceptional individuals throughout history. Despite the national pride, he does not hide the moments of decline and writes candidly: "Though the strength of our nation may have varied, heroes have always emerged." This statement is powerful, asserting that the greatness of a nation is measured not just by its rulers but by the enduring heroism of its people.
In this brief passage, Nguyen Trai eloquently convinces the reader of the key elements that uphold the nation's independence. The deep sense of independence means that every Vietnamese citizen is willing to sacrifice their life for the country. No matter how powerful the enemy, they will be defeated by the strength derived from the nation's ancient culture and its sacred territorial sovereignty.
This is why: Luu Cong, driven by ambition, failed. Trieu Tiet, consumed by arrogance, perished. The gates of Ham Tu trapped Toa Do. The Bạch Đằng River claimed Ô Ma's life. All these historic defeats of foreign invaders serve as undeniable proof of Vietnam's victory. The passage is rich with names of invaders, like Luu Cong, Trieu Tiet, Toa Do, and Ô Ma, each paired with a corresponding Vietnamese victory, such as the battles at Ham Tu and Bạch Đằng. The rhythm of the passage changes abruptly, becoming short and sharp, with parallel structures that further emphasize the invaders' downfall. This sharpness in phrasing serves as a warning to any future would-be invaders while showcasing the pride in Vietnam's history of defending its sovereignty.
In conclusion, the passage "The Waters of Dai Viet" embodies a powerful expression of patriotism, showcasing human righteousness, love for the people, national pride, the country’s independence, and its military tradition of defending the homeland. Patriotism, in its simplest form, is a deeply personal connection to the place of one's birth. It is through this deep emotional bond that we are motivated to strive for the future of our homeland, dedicating ourselves to learning and improving for the sake of the country and its future.
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4. Analysis of the Patriotism in "Bình Ngô Đại Cáo" - Part 1
Every nation possesses a sense of patriotism, but when it comes to bravery and ingenuity, our people stand out far beyond others. This is clearly demonstrated in the resistance against the Mongol invasions during the Trần Dynasty, the Lam Sơn insurgency against the Ngô forces, and the Battle of Điện Biên Phủ during the August Revolution. Despite our small population and limited land, the Vietnamese have always exhibited extraordinary national pride and courage. This spirit is documented in our literature. Throughout the history of Vietnamese literature, the work "Bình Ngô Đại Cáo" by Nguyễn Trãi stands out as a timeless masterpiece, often regarded as the second declaration of independence for the nation. It continues to inspire and invoke pride among generations of Vietnamese people, who remain deeply attached to this monumental work.
"Bình Ngô Đại Cáo" was written by Nguyễn Trãi in early 1428 under the command of Lê Lợi, after the Lam Sơn forces had triumphed over the Ming invaders. With the Ming forces forced to sign a peace treaty and withdraw, Vietnam preserved its independence and peace. Nguyễn Trãi (1380-1442) was not only a national hero but also a highly gifted individual in many areas of life. He played a significant role in the struggle against the Ming and was an outstanding poet, essayist, and statesman. He was the first major literary figure in Vietnam’s medieval period.
The work itself is a "Cao" (formal declaration) written in Classical Chinese. It belongs to the genre of rhetorical political writing, designed to announce a major national event to the people. The title refers to an important proclamation declaring the defeat of the Ngô forces, using the term “Ngô” with contempt to refer to the invading Ming forces. The structure of the work is coherent and tightly organized, employing parallelism and vivid imagery, enhancing its rhetorical impact.
"Bình Ngô Đại Cáo" is a heroic narrative that celebrates the monumental victory of the Vietnamese people in the 15th century. It holds historical value and literary significance, preserving key events of the past while continuing to instill national pride and a love for the nation among the people of Vietnam. In today’s rapidly advancing world, where battles are no longer fought with swords and spears but with politics and economics, we must reflect on how we, as Vietnamese citizens, can continue to uphold the patriotic spirit and honor our national heritage. Let us strive to live up to the pride of reading such timeless works, filled with love for the country and humanity in general, which continue to inspire us today.
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5. Analysis of the Patriotism in "Bình Ngô Đại Cáo" - Part 2
The Vietnamese people have long had a beautiful tradition of deep patriotism and national pride, which has been evident throughout history. This spirit is especially clear in our long history of resisting foreign invasions, from the reign of the Hung Kings to the present day. Our patriotism is not only evident in wars but also deeply embedded in the literary works of many brilliant authors, with Nguyen Trai being a particularly important figure. Nguyen Trai, a great politician, military strategist, and cultural icon, conveyed his love for the country through his works, and particularly in his masterpiece 'Binh Ngo Dai Cao,' a political proclamation that also serves as a second declaration of independence for Vietnam. The work is revered as one of the finest pieces of Vietnamese literature, not only for its historical value but also for its profound expression of the national spirit, which has been passed down through generations.
'Binh Ngo Dai Cao' was written in 1427 by Nguyen Trai, commissioned by Le Loi, after the Lam Son army had decisively defeated the 150,000-strong Ming army. The purpose of the work was to announce the victory to the world, reaffirm the sovereignty of the nation, and recount the struggles of the resistance, highlighting the cruelty and injustice of the Ming invaders. It also marked the beginning of a new era for the country, the end of the war, and the establishment of a peaceful and prosperous new dynasty.
In this work, Nguyen Trai first expresses patriotism by presenting the righteous cause of the resistance, which serves as the foundation for the entire proclamation.
'In the name of humanity, the priority is to secure the people's peace,
The army punishes the oppressors to eliminate evil;
Just as our country, Dai Viet, has long been known for its culture,
Our mountains, rivers, and borders are clearly defined,
And the customs of the North and South are distinct;
From the reigns of the Trieu, Dinh, Ly, and Tran dynasties, independence was built,
Standing strong alongside the Han, Tang, Song, and Yuan empires.'
The spirit of patriotism is first and foremost demonstrated in Nguyen Trai’s call for humanity and justice. His declaration that 'The work of humanity is rooted in securing the peace of the people, and the army must first fight the evil' emphasizes the duty to protect the citizens from the horrors of war, ensuring a peaceful life while fostering a deep love for the nation. Moreover, he cleverly underscores the long history of Vietnam's independence through comparisons between Vietnamese dynasties and their northern neighbors, asserting that Vietnam never bowed to any foreign powers. The proud history of Vietnam's resistance to foreign invaders is presented by listing numerous defeats of powerful northern empires when they attempted to conquer Vietnam.
After establishing the righteous cause, Nguyen Trai proceeds to expose the brutal crimes of the Ming invaders, with a tone of sorrow and deep hatred, revealing his patriotism and love for the people.
'Under the rule of the Ho, the government was corrupt,
Leading the people to resentment,
The reckless Ming seized the opportunity to bring disaster,
Traitors sold the country for glory.'
Nguyen Trai, with the insight of a seasoned politician and military leader, uncovers the Ming's treacherous invasion, taking advantage of internal chaos in the Ho dynasty to justify their invasion under the pretext of 'helping the Tran dynasty.' As the poem progresses, Nguyen Trai adopts the perspective of an ordinary Vietnamese citizen, denouncing the Ming for their inhumane actions, including genocide, pillaging, and mistreatment of the Vietnamese people.
'They burned the common folk in the hellfire,
Buried innocent children under the oppressive regime,
Exhausted the people with high taxes,
Despoiled everything from humans to nature.'
The cruelty of the Ming is laid bare through powerful imagery, comparing their actions to the unending destruction of nature. Nguyen Trai's portrayal of the Ming invaders shows their complete disregard for human life and culture, revealing their brutality in graphic terms. His patriotism shines through in every line as he questions whether the heavens could allow such injustice to continue.
Patriotism is further expressed in the recounting of the Vietnamese resistance against the Ming. The bravery of the Lam Son army, led by Le Loi, is highlighted as the epitome of national pride, with Le Loi symbolizing the collective determination to protect the homeland.
'In the mountains of Lam Son, a call for justice arose,
In a wild place, we found refuge.
The great enemy must not be allowed to remain.'
Le Loi’s leadership, his deep hatred for the invaders, and his commitment to the cause of national independence are vividly captured by Nguyen Trai, who shows how, despite great adversity, the resistance movement never lost hope.
Finally, after the victory, the poem's conclusion reaffirms Vietnam's sovereignty and the establishment of a new era of peace and independence, declaring proudly that 'From now on, the country will be firm and secure,
The nation's future has been renewed.'
Nguyen Trai's 'Binh Ngo Dai Cao' not only tells the story of the military struggle but also expresses the deep love for the country, the self-pride of the Vietnamese people, and their unyielding determination to defend their homeland against foreign aggression. This work is not just a declaration of victory; it is a powerful manifestation of the Vietnamese spirit, a spirit of patriotism that runs through the veins of every Vietnamese, passed down through the ages.
This work is rightly regarded as one of the greatest literary achievements in Vietnamese history, a second declaration of independence for the nation, and a testament to the enduring power of national pride and unity.
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6. Analytical Essay on the Spirit of Patriotism in "Binh Ngo Dai Cao" - Version 3
Throughout the history of Vietnam's founding and defense, Nguyễn Trãi stands out as an exceptional figure. He was not only a brilliant politician and military strategist, but also an outstanding writer, with works that have stood the test of time, such as *Bình Ngô Đại Cáo*, *Dư Địa Chí*, and *Quân Trung Từ Mệnh Tập*. Whether writing in prose or poetry, his works are united by a deep love for the country and its people. *Bình Ngô Đại Cáo* and *Cảnh Ngày Hè* are no exception, although they differ in form and theme, both are imbued with a profound patriotism.
The theme of patriotism is one of the most important in medieval Vietnamese literature, manifested in various aspects such as a strong sense of national self-respect, hatred for invaders, a determination to fight against foreign enemies, and a deep love for one’s homeland, praising the beauty of the land.
*Bình Ngô Đại Cáo* was written by Nguyễn Trãi on the orders of Lê Lợi in early 1428, after the victory of the Lam Sơn insurgents in the war against the Ming invaders. The Ming army was forced to sign a peace treaty and retreat, preserving Vietnam’s independence and peace.
In *Bình Ngô Đại Cáo*, patriotism is first expressed through national pride and dignity. The work opens with a declaration of the equal and parallel existence of the Vietnamese and Chinese dynasties.
“Just like our Đại Việt, from ancient times,
Proud of our long-standing culture,
Our mountains and rivers, clearly marked and divided,
Customs of the North and South are distinct.
From the Triệu, Đinh, Lý, Trần dynasties, many generations established independence,
Along with the Han, Tang, Song, Yuan, each ruled over one region. Despite differences in strength,
Heroes always emerge in every era.”
The culture of Đại Việt, the “culture of Thăng Long,” was formed and developed over thousands of years. Vietnam not only has sovereignty over its land but also unique customs, a distinct history, and its own system of governance. In *Nam Quốc Sơn Hà*, written four hundred years earlier by Lý Thường Kiệt, the focus was on asserting territorial sovereignty and national independence, but in *Bình Ngô Đại Cáo*, Nguyễn Trãi added four more elements: culture, customs, history, and talent. This shows that the Vietnamese sense of nationhood had reached a new level in the 15th century, and it is a testament to Nguyễn Trãi’s deep connection to the country and its people, someone who could craft such magnificent historical works.
During the time of the foreign invasion, the spirit of patriotism was clearly expressed through hatred for the enemy. Nguyễn Trãi condemned the brutal crimes committed by the Ming invaders:
“They roasted innocent people on cruel fires,
Buried the young under cursed pits,
Deceived heaven, betrayed the people with countless tricks,
The Western army harbored resentment for over twenty years.”
With his love for the people, Nguyễn Trãi shared in the suffering of the people during the war. In *Bình Ngô Đại Cáo*, he exposed the many heinous crimes of the Ming army, which continued for over twenty years, deceiving heaven and betraying the people.
Grief-stricken by the loss of the country, Nguyễn Trãi tirelessly sought ways to save the nation. His words about Lê Lợi also reflect his own inner turmoil:
“Heartbroken, my mind in pain for over a decade,
Tasting honey, lying on thorns, not just for a day or night.
Forgetting food due to anger, plans and strategies became clearer,
Reflecting, the fate of the nation must be carefully considered.”
The love for the nation also manifests in a tone of pride and praise when speaking of the indomitable spirit of the people in their resistance against the Ming forces. Nguyễn Trãi, using vivid and powerful imagery, praised the heroic victories of the Vietnamese under the leadership of Lê Lợi:
“The battle of Bồ Đằng roared with thunder and lightning,
In Trà Lân, bamboo trees were torn apart, ash flying,
Swords sharpened on stone, even the mountains could wear down.
Elephants drank, rivers dried up.
One battle, no enemies left standing,
Two battles, birds and beasts scattered,
A strong wind swept away the dry leaves,
The ant hill crumbled, breaking the dam.”
Despite early difficulties and setbacks, the determined spirit of the Vietnamese people led them to victory. With the support of the masses and the unity of soldiers, the Lam Sơn insurgents gained incredible victories in a matter of days:
“On the eighteenth, the battle of Chi Lăng, Liễu Thăng was defeated,
On the twentieth, the battle of Mã Yên, Liễu Thăng beheaded,
On the twenty-third, Count Lương Minh was defeated and died,
On the twenty-eighth, Minister Lý Khánh committed suicide.”
The high spirits of the resistance forces are vividly depicted through lively and detailed images. Never before had the nation’s spirit been so fierce and unyielding.
In *Cảnh Ngày Hè*, Nguyễn Trãi’s patriotism is expressed from a different perspective. This poem, from his collection *Quốc Âm Thi Tập*, was written when Nguyễn Trãi retired to Côn Sơn. Through his portrayal of the vibrant summer landscape with its colors, sounds, light, and life, Nguyễn Trãi reveals his passionate love for nature and his country.
“Then I rested in the shade all day,
The green foliage of the locust tree spread wide.
The pomegranate still bloomed bright red,
The lotus pond sent off a fragrant breeze.”
Nature in Nguyễn Trãi’s writing is depicted as lively, harmonious, and full of vitality. The locust tree with its lush branches, the pomegranate blooming with red flowers, and the lotus emitting fragrance—all are full of life. Through vivid and colorful descriptions, Nguyễn Trãi captures the dynamic beauty of summer, while also conveying his love for the environment.
Nguyễn Trãi finds joy in nature and in the life of people, but the most remarkable aspect of the poem is the expression of his deep care for the people. The love for the country has transformed into a constant longing and concern throughout his life. The summer scenery opens up his heartfelt desire for:
“If I had the zither of King Ngu,
I would play a tune for the people to prosper everywhere.”
For Nguyễn Trãi, the fundamental and most profound thought was his sense of righteousness and duty toward the people. Whether as a government official or in retirement, he always carried the weight of responsibility for the people’s welfare. The final two lines of the poem encapsulate his aspirations. Before the vibrant summer day, Nguyễn Trãi dreams of using the ancient zither to play a melody for the prosperity of the people everywhere. His words carry a deep sense of duty and a noble heart. His longing for a prosperous nation brings to mind the yearning of the poet Đỗ Phủ:
“If I could have a grand house,
I would shelter all the poor scholars across the land,
Withstanding wind and rain, firm as a stone bed!
Oh, when will this house stand tall before my eyes,
Even if my own hut collapses, I will die of cold!”
This poem reflects Nguyễn Trãi’s inner turmoil during his time in Côn Sơn, his unwavering love for the people and the country. Despite living in seclusion, he could not forget the fate of the nation. The spirit of patriotism is hidden beneath the picture of nature and human life in the poem.
It is often said that literature is a reflection of the author’s inner world. Nguyễn Trãi’s poetry helps us understand his deep love for the nation. Through *Bình Ngô Đại Cáo* and *Cảnh Ngày Hè*, we see that no matter the circumstances—whether as a court official or in retirement—Nguyễn Trãi’s heart was always consumed with thoughts of the people and the fate of the nation. This deep sense of responsibility has made his life and works endure through generations of readers.
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