Top 10 Analytical Essays on Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's "Lẽ Ghét Thương"

In the late 19th century, the feudal system of the Nguyễn dynasty was in its final decline, with a chaotic and corrupt court. This inspired writers and poets to reflect on reality and fulfill their role as 'faithful scribes of the era.'

Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, a talented poet and writer of that time, used his literary skills to depict contemporary society through Chinese-inspired tales, expressing his thoughts and ideals in his verses. The excerpt 'Lẽ Ghét Thương,' taken from lines 473 to 504 of 'Lục Vân Tiên,' recounts a conversation between Quán and young scholars, revealing the author's sincere emotions of love and hate.

Quán, a representative of reclusive Confucian scholars, shares his thoughts and feelings about the world he witnesses. The story revolves around four scholars—Bùi Kiệm, Trịnh Hâm, Tử Trực, and Lục Vân Tiên—who drink and compose poetry at Quán's inn before their exams. Trịnh Hâm and Bùi Kiệm, boastful and deceitful, lose the contest and falsely accuse Lục Vân Tiên and Tử Trực of cheating.

Quán uses this incident to discuss the nature of love and hate in life. Though a minor character, Quán serves as the author's mouthpiece in this excerpt. The first four lines are Quán's declaration on love and hate:

'Quán said, having studied the classics,

Reading them brings constant sorrow.

When asked, I must speak,

For to hate deeply is also to love deeply.'

Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, a man of great learning, passed the tú tài exam in his early twenties. Just as his future seemed bright, he lost his mother and his eyesight, returning home to teach and practice medicine. His deep understanding of history and literature fills him with pain and sorrow. He explains the inseparable connection between hate and love, emphasizing that his hatred stems not from personal gain but from witnessing injustice and suffering. His love for humanity is so profound that it transforms into hatred for tyranny and oppression.

When asked by Vân Tiên about the nature of love and hate, Quán candidly shares his views. He 'hates trivial matters,' referring to meaningless and absurd actions. His hatred is intense, as shown by the repetition of 'hate' in the lines:

'Hate the deeds of Kiệt and Trụ,

...Who brought chaos and suffering to the people.'

Each couplet references historical figures and events from ancient China, using parallelism to highlight the destructive impact of their actions on the people. Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, a patriot and humanitarian, speaks from the perspective of the oppressed, condemning those who exploit and harm the populace.

In the following fourteen lines, Quán expresses his compassion for virtuous individuals who faced adversity:

'I pity the sage Confucius,

...Who was driven away to teach the common folk.'

These figures, though talented and virtuous, were hindered by unfavorable circumstances, unable to fully contribute to their nation. Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's empathy extends to contemporary figures like Cao Bá Quát and Nguyễn Công Trứ, whose talents were similarly overlooked.

Quán's reflections on love and hate mirror the author's own sentiments. Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, despite his aspirations, faced numerous hardships early in life. His critique of Chinese dynasties and his compassion for historical figures reflect the corruption and decay of his own era. His views on love and hate are rooted in his concern for the people and his deep empathy for humanity.

The excerpt 'Lẽ Ghét Thương' showcases the author's literary artistry, with its use of repetition, parallelism, and simple, relatable language. The interplay of contrasting phrases, such as 'to hate deeply is also to love deeply,' adds rhythm and depth to the verses, vividly conveying the author's emotions.

Through Quán's words, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu expresses his thoughts, feelings, and perspectives on love and hate. Beneath the literary surface lies the profound humanitarian spirit of the blind poet. As Phạm Văn Đồng aptly remarked, 'Nguyễn Đình Chiểu is a shining star in the nation's literary sky.'

'Lẽ Ghét Thương' is a heartfelt expression by Nguyễn Đình Chiểu about hatred and human compassion. In the excerpt, there are 26 lines, with 10 focusing on 'hate' and 16 on 'love.' This shows that the discussion of love is nearly twice as long as that of hate. The author himself once stated, 'Because to hate deeply is also to love deeply.'

Indeed, reading the 10 lines about 'hate' reveals that its root lies in compassion for the people. Quán's hatred—intense and bitter—stems from witnessing trivialities, deceptions, and indulgences that bring chaos and suffering to the people. In these 10 lines, the word 'dân' (people) appears four times, highlighting their plight:

'To leave the people in pits and traps,

To make them endure endless misery,

Deceitful bells that exhaust the people,

Morning and night, chaos disrupts their lives.'

To emphasize this heartfelt hatred, the poet employs repetition. In the 10 lines, the word 'ghét' (hate) appears eight times, with four in the opening couplet. The second line, 'Hate the bitter, hate the sour, hate to the core,' uses escalating imagery to convey the depth of Quán's hatred, which transforms into a profound loathing for those who harm the people. This reflects the deeply humanistic nature of Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's work.

In contrast to hatred, Quán expresses love in 16 lines. He begins by expressing compassion for Confucius, who endured hardships while spreading his teachings: 'Sometimes in Sòng, sometimes in Vệ, sometimes in Trần, sometimes in Khuông.' He then extends his sympathy to Nhan Tử, Gia Cát, Đổng Tử, Nguyên Lượng, Hàn Dũ, Liêm, and Lạc—virtuous individuals who aspired to serve the people but met misfortune, untimely deaths, or lack of royal favor, leaving their dreams unfulfilled.

While the first 10 lines convey hatred for those who harm the people, the next 16 lines express direct love for talented and noble individuals who faced adversity. To convey this compassionate love, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu continues to use repetition, with the word 'thương' (love) appearing nine times. The section begins with two instances: 'Love is love for the saintly sage.'

This repetition reflects Quán's deep affection for Confucius and his struggles. His love extends even to those who died young without achieving their ambitions:

'I pity Nhan Tử, cut short,

At thirty-one, his dreams unfulfilled.'

He also sympathizes with those who faced misfortune:

'I pity Gia Cát, so talented,

Yet born in the decline of Hán, his fate sealed.'

Through this, Quán expresses sorrow for the harsh realities of life and society. The poem's structure is tight and coherent, with clear openings for both 'hate' and 'love' sections. The 'hate' section begins:

'Quán said: I hate trivial matters,

Hate the bitter, hate the sour, hate to the core.'

The 'love' section starts:

'Love is love for the saintly sage,

Sometimes in Sòng, sometimes in Vệ, sometimes in Trần, sometimes in Khuông.'

The conclusion ties both sections together:

'Reading through history, I see,

Half is hate, half is love.'

Within each section, repetition of 'hate' and 'love' links and separates smaller ideas. For example:

'I hate the eras of Kiệt and Trụ, indulgent,

Leaving the people in pits and traps.

I hate the times of Ư and Lệ, chaotic,

Making the people suffer endlessly.'

Or:

'I pity Gia Cát, so talented,

Yet born in the decline of Hán, his fate sealed.

I pity Đổng Tử, lofty and wise,

Ambitious yet unfulfilled.'

Through this skillful use of repetition and structured composition, the poem strikes a tone that is both solemn and poignant, a hallmark of Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's lyrical style.

The epic poem 'Lục Vân Tiên' was composed in the early 1850s, after Nguyễn Đình Chiểu lost his sight and returned to his hometown to practice medicine, heal the sick, and teach in the southern region. The narrative revolves around the conflict between good and evil, promoting the ideals of humanity and justice, and expressing a vision of an ideal society where people treat each other with love and compassion.

Though belonging to the scholarly Nôm tradition, the poem carries strong folk elements. The excerpt 'Lẽ Ghét Thương' spans lines 473 to 504 of 'Lục Vân Tiên,' beginning with Lục Vân Tiên, Vương Tử Trực, Trịnh Hâm, and Bùi Kiệm resting at Quán's inn on their way to the imperial exams. There, the four engage in a poetry contest.

When Trịnh Hâm and Bùi Kiệm accuse Vân Tiên and Tử Trực of plagiarism, Quán rebukes them harshly. Later, Tử Trực asks Quán about history, prompting Quán to respond with the excerpt 'Lẽ Ghét Thương,' expressing his views on love and hate in life.

Quán, a supporting character who aids the protagonist in his quest for justice, embodies the traits of a reclusive Confucian scholar with a distinctly southern Vietnamese character. He serves as Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's mouthpiece, articulating a clear distinction between love and hate. Quán's philosophy is encapsulated in the lines, 'Because to hate deeply is also to love deeply,' and 'Half is hate, half is love.' This reveals the inseparable relationship between hate and love, two sides of the same coin: loving the good necessitates hating the evil.

In this excerpt, love is directed toward two groups: the suffering people and the virtuous individuals who face oppression. Hate, on the other hand, is reserved for those who harm the people and perpetuate injustice. This duality reflects Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's patriotic and humanitarian ideals. Quán elaborates on his hatred in the following lines:

'Quán said: I hate trivial matters,

Hate the bitter, hate the sour, hate to the core.

I hate the eras of Kiệt and Trụ, indulgent,

Leaving the people in pits and traps.

I hate the times of U and Lệ, chaotic,

Making the people suffer endlessly.

I hate the age of the Five Hegemons,

Deceitful, exhausting the people.

I hate the era of Thúc Quý,

Morning and night, chaos disrupts their lives.'

In the first two lines, the repetition of 'hate' emphasizes the intensity of Quán's emotions, targeting trivial and harmful actions. The subsequent lines detail specific historical figures and their misdeeds, using a clear structure: 'hate - the object of hate - their characteristics - the consequences for the people.' This straightforward enumeration reflects the blunt honesty of southern Vietnamese people and Nguyễn Đình Chiểu himself.

Quán draws examples from Chinese history, starting with King Kiệt of the Hạ dynasty and King Trụ of the Thương dynasty, notorious for their decadence and tyranny, which plunged the people into misery. Next, he condemns King U and King Lệ for their extravagance and chaos. He also criticizes the Five Hegemons of the Spring and Autumn period, whose power struggles brought turmoil to the people. Finally, he laments the decline of the Thúc Quý era, marked by instability and suffering.

Behind this intense hatred lies a deep love for the people and a desire for peace and justice. Quán's compassion is further expressed in the next 14 lines, which focus on love:

'Love is love for the saintly sage,

Sometimes in Sòng, sometimes in Vệ, sometimes in Trần, sometimes in Khuông.

I pity Nhan Tử, cut short,

At thirty-one, his dreams unfulfilled.

I pity Gia Cát, so talented,

Yet born in the decline of Hán, his fate sealed.

I pity Đổng Tử, lofty and wise,

Ambitious yet unfulfilled.

I pity Nguyên Lượng, sorrowful,

Failed to serve the nation, returned to plow.

I pity Hàn Dũ, unlucky,

Banished after presenting his plea.

I pity Liêm and Lạc, dismissed,

Sent home to teach the common folk.'

Here, Quán's tone softens, filled with compassion and regret for the virtuous figures he admires. He employs a similar structure to the hate section, replacing 'hate' with 'love.' Drawing from history, he highlights individuals like Confucius, who tirelessly spread his teachings but found little success in his lifetime. He mourns Nhan Tử, who died young, and Gia Cát Lượng, whose talents were wasted in the decline of the Hán dynasty. He also sympathizes with Đổng Tử and Nguyên Lượng, whose ambitions were thwarted by unworthy rulers, and Hàn Dũ and Liêm Lạc, who faced exile and dismissal for their integrity.

In summary, Quán's love is directed toward talented and virtuous individuals who were unjustly treated or born into unfortunate times. Beneath this love lies a deep-seated hatred for the chaotic era, corrupt officials, and incompetent rulers who not only oppressed the people but also stifled the potential of those who sought to serve the nation.

The excerpt 'Lẽ Ghét Thương' vividly conveys Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's patriotism and humanitarianism through Quán's philosophy of love and hate. The straightforward language, folk-inspired lục bát verse, and historical references make the poem accessible and impactful, leaving a lasting impression of the author's ideals of justice, love for the people, and a longing for a harmonious society.

Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's 'Lục Vân Tiên,' a folk-inspired Nôm epic written in the early 1850s after the author lost his sight, revolves around the battle between good and evil, promoting ideals of a just and harmonious society where human relationships are rooted in sincerity and compassion.

The excerpt 'Lẽ Ghét Thương' features a conversation between Quán, a minor yet beloved character known for his clear distinction between love and hate, and four scholars—Lục Vân Tiên, Tử Trực, Bùi Kiệm, and Trịnh Hâm—before they enter the imperial exams. Quán begins with these lines:

'Quán said: Having studied the classics,

Reading them brings constant sorrow.

When asked, I must speak,

For to hate deeply is also to love deeply.'

Prompted by Vân Tiên's inquiry about his views on love and hate, Quán responds with these verses, suggesting that his feelings stem from historical records that evoke sorrow. Vân Tiên, in turn, expresses his confusion:

'Vân Tiên said: The clear and murky remain unclear,

How can one distinguish love from hate?'

Vân Tiên questions how Quán can so clearly define love and hate without fully understanding the complexities of good and evil. The following ten lines reveal what Quán despises:

'Quán said: I hate trivial matters,

Hate the bitter, hate the sour, hate to the core.'

While the first line carries a light tone, the second is resolute, emphasizing Quán's disdain for gossip and meaningless chatter. Drawing from ancient Chinese history, Quán lists four things he hates: the decadent eras of Kiệt and Trụ, the chaotic reigns of U and Lệ, the power struggles of the Five Hegemons, and the decline of the Thúc Quý era. These were times of corruption and tyranny that brought suffering to the people.

Beneath Quán's hatred lies a profound love for the nation and its people, who endured hardship under oppressive rulers. His compassion extends to virtuous figures like Confucius, the founder of Confucianism, who traveled widely to spread his teachings but found little success. He also pities Nhan Tử, Gia Cát Lượng, Đổng Tử, Nguyên Lượng (Đào Tiềm), Hàn Dũ, and the teachers Liêm and Lạc—talented individuals whose potential was stifled by adversity.

Quán's love is rooted in admiration for these virtuous and talented individuals, whose lives were marred by misfortune and injustice. His sorrow reflects a broader disdain for corrupt officials and incompetent rulers who oppressed the people and hindered the nation's progress. Quán concludes his thoughts with these lines:

'Reading through history, I see,

Half is hate, half is love.'

In summary, Quán's philosophy of love and hate mirrors Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's own sentiments. The poet laments the suffering of the people and the wasted potential of talented individuals, while condemning the deceitful and tyrannical rulers who brought misery to the nation.

The excerpt 'Lẽ Ghét Thương' serves as a heartfelt expression of Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's patriotism and humanitarianism, envisioning a society where people treat each other with kindness and integrity. The poem's sincere and emotional language, combined with its historical references, leaves a lasting impression on readers, highlighting the author's deep love for his country and its people.

'Lục Vân Tiên' is a monumental work of Vietnamese medieval literature, cherished by the people, especially those in the southern region. Nguyễn Đình Chiểu composed this epic poem around 1850, after losing his sight, when he returned to Gia Định to teach and practice medicine. The story draws on folk motifs and medieval literature, combined with elements from the author's own life.

The narrative follows Lục Vân Tiên, a talented scholar and warrior, who rescues Kiều Nguyệt Nga, a noblewoman, from bandits on his way to the imperial exams. Nguyệt Nga pledges her loyalty to him in gratitude. Before the exams, Vân Tiên learns of his mother's death and returns home to mourn, weeping until he goes blind. Trịnh Hâm, a jealous rival, tricks him and pushes him into a river. Vân Tiên is saved by a fisherman and returns home, only to be betrayed by his fiancée, Võ Thể Loan, who abandons him in a mountain cave. With divine intervention, Vân Tiên regains his sight, passes the exams, and is sent by the king to fight invaders.

Nguyệt Nga remains faithful to Vân Tiên. When forced to marry a foreign official, she attempts suicide by jumping into a river but is rescued. Later, she escapes from Bùi Kiệm, who tries to force her into marriage. Ultimately, Vân Tiên returns victorious, reunites with Nguyệt Nga, and they marry.

The excerpt 'Lẽ Ghét Thương' (lines 473–504) recounts a conversation between Quán and several young scholars. Vân Tiên and his friend Tử Trực, on their way to the exams, meet Trịnh Hâm and Bùi Kiệm at an inn. Trịnh Hâm challenges them to a poetry contest. When Vân Tiên and Tử Trực win, Trịnh Hâm accuses them of cheating. Quán uses this opportunity to discuss the nature of love and hate.

Quán's speech criticizes the arrogance and malice of Trịnh Hâm and Bùi Kiệm, whom he considers petty and deceitful. Quán represents the reclusive Confucian scholars, much like the fisherman and woodcutter in the story, who live humble lives. He serves as the author's mouthpiece, expressing Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's ideals.

Quán begins:

'Quán said: Having studied the classics,

Reading them brings constant sorrow.

When asked, I must speak,

For to hate deeply is also to love deeply.'

This reveals the inseparable connection between love and hate in Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's heart. His hatred stems not from personal grievances but from a profound love for humanity. The line 'For to hate deeply is also to love deeply' encapsulates the moral and philosophical ideals of the poem. Love and hate are two sides of the same coin: loving the good necessitates hating the evil. Quán's philosophy is rooted in compassion for the people and disdain for those who harm them.

Quán elaborates on his hatred in the following lines:

'Quán said: I hate trivial matters,

Hate the bitter, hate the sour, hate to the core.'

He despises gossip and meaningless actions, drawing examples from Chinese history to illustrate his points. He condemns the decadent reigns of King Kiệt and King Trụ, the chaos under King U and King Lệ, the power struggles of the Five Hegemons, and the decline of the Thúc Quý era. These were times of corruption and tyranny that brought suffering to the people.

Quán's hatred is fueled by his love for the oppressed. He pities virtuous figures like Confucius, who tirelessly spread his teachings but found little success. He mourns Nhan Tử, who died young, and Gia Cát Lượng, whose talents were wasted in the decline of the Hán dynasty. He also sympathizes with Đổng Tử, Nguyên Lượng (Đào Tiềm), Hàn Dũ, and the teachers Liêm and Lạc—talented individuals whose potential was stifled by adversity.

Quán's love is rooted in admiration for these virtuous and talented individuals, whose lives were marred by misfortune and injustice. His sorrow reflects a broader disdain for corrupt officials and incompetent rulers who oppressed the people and hindered the nation's progress. Quán concludes his thoughts with these lines:

'Reading through history, I see,

Half is hate, half is love.'

In summary, Quán's philosophy of love and hate mirrors Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's own sentiments. The poet laments the suffering of the people and the wasted potential of talented individuals, while condemning the deceitful and tyrannical rulers who brought misery to the nation.

The excerpt 'Lẽ Ghét Thương' serves as a heartfelt expression of Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's patriotism and humanitarianism, envisioning a society where people treat each other with kindness and integrity. The poem's sincere and emotional language, combined with its historical references, leaves a lasting impression on readers, highlighting the author's deep love for his country and its people.

Nguyễn Đình Chiểu is a great poet and writer of the nation, and it is evident that he achieved success not only with elegies but also with narrative poetry. His most famous work, 'Lục Vân Tiên,' particularly the excerpt 'Lẽ Ghét Thương,' showcases the admirable sentiments of love and hate embodied by the innkeeper.

'Lẽ Ghét Thương' is an excerpt from Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's 'Lục Vân Tiên.' It highlights the innkeeper's expressions of hatred and compassion. The context for his reflections arises when he encounters Lục Vân Tiên, Tử Trực, Trịnh Hâm, and Bùi Kiệm competing in a poetry contest. When Trịnh Hâm and Bùi Kiệm lose, they accuse Lục Vân Tiên of cheating. This injustice prompts the innkeeper to voice his feelings of love and hate, serving as a conduit for the author's own sentiments.

The innkeeper is not an ignorant man; he has studied extensively but grew disillusioned with the corrupt examination system and chose to retire to a simple life as a tea seller. This reflects the mindset of Nguyễn Đình Chiểu and many Confucian scholars of his time, who despised the chaos and competition of officialdom and preferred a peaceful, albeit modest, rural life.

In the opening four lines, the innkeeper speaks out against the unfairness he witnesses among the scholars:

'Quán said: Having studied the classics,

Reading them brings constant sorrow.

When asked, I must speak,

For to hate deeply is also to love deeply.'

Here, the innkeeper reveals his inner thoughts. Though now a humble tea seller, he was once a diligent scholar. The contest among the four scholars prompts him to advise Vân Tiên to choose his friends wisely, as reflected in these lines.

Vân Tiên, showing humility and respect, asks the innkeeper about the nature of love and hate:

'Vân Tiên said: The clear and murky remain unclear,

How can one distinguish love from hate?'

Vân Tiên admits his confusion and seeks the innkeeper's wisdom. The innkeeper, in turn, begins by discussing hate, as it is often more palpable than love:

'Quán said: I hate trivial matters,

Hate the bitter, hate the sour, hate to the core.'

The innkeeper expresses his disdain for meaningless gossip and trivialities. The repetition of 'hate' emphasizes his intense feelings. He elaborates on his hatred by citing historical examples of tyrannical rulers whose actions brought suffering to the people:

'I hate the eras of Kiệt and Trụ, indulgent,

Leaving the people in pits and traps.

I hate the times of U and Lệ, chaotic,

Making the people suffer endlessly.

I hate the age of the Five Hegemons,

Deceitful, exhausting the people.

I hate the era of Thúc Quý,

Morning and night, chaos disrupts their lives.'

Each pair of lines highlights a historical period marked by corruption and oppression, reflecting the innkeeper's deep compassion for the suffering of the people.

Transitioning from hate to love, the tone softens as the innkeeper expresses his admiration for virtuous historical figures:

'Love is love for the saintly sage,

Sometimes in Sòng, sometimes in Vệ, sometimes in Trần, sometimes in Khuông.

I pity Nhan Tử, cut short,

At thirty-one, his dreams unfulfilled.

I pity Gia Cát, so talented,

Yet born in the decline of Hán, his fate sealed.

I pity Đổng Tử, lofty and wise,

Ambitious yet unfulfilled.

I pity Nguyên Lượng, sorrowful,

Failed to serve the nation, returned to plow.

I pity Hàn Dũ, unlucky,

Banished after presenting his plea.

I pity Liêm and Lạc, dismissed,

Sent home to teach the common folk.'

These lines honor figures like Confucius, Nhan Tử, Gia Cát Lượng, and others, whose talents were thwarted by misfortune or injustice. The innkeeper's love for these individuals stems from his compassion for their unfulfilled potential and his disdain for the systems that failed them.

In the concluding lines, the innkeeper summarizes his philosophy:

'Reading through history, I see,

Half is hate, half is love.'

Through the character of the innkeeper, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu conveys his own views on love and hate. The innkeeper's sentiments reflect the author's deep compassion for the oppressed and his condemnation of corruption and tyranny. This excerpt serves as a powerful expression of Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's humanitarian ideals and his vision of a just and harmonious society.

"Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's 'Lục Vân Tiên' is a moral anthem, a grand epic celebrating justice and the noble virtues of life, praising those who uphold righteousness" (Phạm Văn Đồng). The excerpt 'Lẽ Ghét Thương' captivates readers with its humanitarian spirit, clear distinction between love and hate, and fervent dedication to justice, embodying the characteristic traits of the people of Southern Vietnam.

Though blind, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu always advocated using literature to promote morality and combat evil. His works are deeply imbued with a profound humanistic spirit, where readers consistently encounter clear and specific emotions: love, hate, sympathy, and indignation. These emotions are sometimes expressed directly in works like 'Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc' and 'Văn tế nghĩa sĩ trận vong lục tỉnh,' or indirectly through the voices of his characters. The attitudes and feelings of Quán in 'Lẽ Ghét Thương' (excerpted from 'Lục Vân Tiên') are a prime example.

'Lẽ Ghét Thương' is a heartfelt expression of Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's hatred and human compassion. In this context, the character Quán becomes the author's mouthpiece. Quán's clear emotions of love and hate are expressed immediately after witnessing the poetic competition between Lục Vân Tiên, Vương Tử Trực, Bùi Kiệm, and Trịnh Hâm at his inn.

Out of the 26 lines in the excerpt, 16 are dedicated to love. Thus, the majority of the lines focus on compassion for humanity. Nguyễn Đình Chiểu himself once said, 'Because to hate deeply is also to love deeply.' Indeed, upon closer reflection, one realizes that the root of his hatred lies in his deep love for the people.

Love serves as the foundation and spiritual motivation for the poet to criticize the wicked and the cruel. Quán's intense hatred for trivial matters, deceit, and indulgence stems from their harm to the people, causing them endless suffering. Each mention of a hateful object is accompanied by a commentary on the crimes they commit against the innocent:

'I hate the eras of Kiệt and Trụ, indulgent,

Leaving the people in pits and traps.

I hate the times of U and Lệ, chaotic,

Making the people suffer endlessly.'

Among the 10 lines about hate, four describe the varying degrees of suffering endured by the people:

– Leaving the people in pits and traps.

– Making the people suffer endlessly.

– Deceitful, exhausting the people.

– Morning and night, chaos disrupts their lives.

While the lines about hate express disdain and anger, the tone shifts abruptly to one of empathy and compassion for the people. To convey the depth of his hatred, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu employs repetition. In the first 10 lines alone, the word 'hate' appears eight times, with three instances in the second line: 'Hate the bitter, hate the sour, hate to the core.'

The words 'bitter' and 'sour' evoke strong sensory imagery, intensifying the emotion. The escalation in the degree of hatred reveals that Quán's hatred is not confined to a specific era but transcends time. His hatred is not superficial; it runs deep, ingrained in his very being. What Quán calls 'hate' is, in essence, a profound loathing for those who harm the people's happiness, reflecting the deeply humanistic nature of Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's literature.

In contrast to hatred, Quán expresses love in the following 16 lines. Though brief, these lines reveal the depth of his compassion and sorrow for virtuous individuals who aspired to serve the nation but met with misfortune. The first figure mentioned is Confucius, who faced numerous hardships in spreading his teachings:

'Love is love for the saintly sage,

Sometimes in Sòng, sometimes in Vệ, sometimes in Trần, sometimes in Khuông.'

He pities those who died young without achieving their ambitions:

'I pity Nhan Tử, cut short,

At thirty-one, his dreams unfulfilled.'

He also sympathizes with those who faced misfortune, such as Gia Cát Lượng, whose talents were wasted in the decline of the Hán dynasty, and the honest officials who were dismissed:

'I pity Gia Cát, so talented,

Yet born in the decline of Hán, his fate sealed...

I pity Liêm and Lạc, dismissed,

Sent home to teach the common folk.'

While the first 10 lines express hatred for those who harm the people, the latter lines directly convey compassion for talented individuals whose aspirations were thwarted by adversity. To express this profound love, the poet repeats the word 'love' nine times, reflecting not only his deep affection for specific individuals but also his boundless compassion for the bitter fate of humanity in the face of harsh natural and social laws.

The excerpt 'Lẽ Ghét Thương,' though brief, is meticulously structured. The combination of repetition and tight composition not only clarifies the poem's themes but also gives it a tone that is both solemn and poignant—a hallmark of Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's lyrical style.

Through the character of Quán, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu conveys his heartfelt sentiments about love and hate. This not only reveals a soul rich in compassion but also embodies a deeply humanistic spirit.

Xuân Diệu aptly remarked: 'Nguyễn Đình Chiểu has written a renowned passage on love and hate. Indeed, since ancient times, these emotions have been universal among the people, and many poets have penned verses on good and evil. But to condense them into a few dozen simple, clear, and poignant lines, infused with rhythm and heartfelt emotion, making them unforgettable—no one has done so as masterfully as Nguyễn Đình Chiểu.'

This excerpt captures Quán's speech as he witnesses Vân Tiên, Tử Trực, Bùi Kiệm, and Trịnh Hâm competing in poetry at his inn. Kiệm and Hâm, lacking talent, fail to compose poems and accuse Tiên and Trực of plagiarizing ancient works. Quán laughs and advises Tiên to choose better friends. Tiên then asks Quán to explain the nature of love and hate in life, prompting Quán's eloquent discourse in the excerpt 'Lẽ Ghét Thương.'

In this passage, Quán presents 10 lines on hate, 14 on love, and concludes with two lines: 'Half is hate, half is love.' What does Quán hate? Through four examples—the eras of Kiệt and Trụ, U and Lệ, the Five Hegemons, and Thúc Quý—we see his disdain for corrupt, immoral, deceitful, and depraved societies that bring suffering to the people, leaving them 'in pits and traps.'

These examples reveal Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's clear standard for what deserves hatred: anything that causes the people suffering, oppression, or harm. The depth of his hatred is profound, as seen in the lines:

'Hate the bitter, hate the sour, hate to the core.'

These words are etched deeply, like carvings in stone. What does Quán love? Through seven examples, we see his compassion for renowned Confucian scholars like Confucius, Nhan Hồi, Đổng Trọng Thư, Gia Cát Lượng, Đào Tiềm, Hàn Dũ, Chu Hi, and the Trình brothers of the Tang-Song era.

Why does he love them? He pities their unfulfilled lives, their struggles, and their inability to fully realize their talents and virtues. In summary, Quán loves those with talent and integrity who face adversity and injustice. Through these examples, we see his deep sorrow for the virtuous and talented.

What stands out most in this passage is the interplay between love and hate. When discussing hate, the text reveals a profound love for the people. When expressing love, it conveys a hatred for petty individuals who drive away the virtuous.

In essence, Quán loves the people and the virtuous, and hates corrupt societies and vile individuals who cause suffering. His philosophy of love and hate mirrors Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's, demonstrating the poet's unwavering support for the people and justice.

The repetition of phrases like 'hate the era,' 'love is,' and 'love for' serves as a form of enumeration. Each repetition builds anticipation for another example of what deserves hate or love. This repetition creates an expressive effect, showcasing the overflowing emotions in Quán's heart and in Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's soul. The lines:

'Quán said: I hate trivial matters,

Hate the bitter, hate the sour, hate to the core.'

are particularly striking. Four instances of 'hate' in two lines emphasize the intensity of his emotions. The natural rhythm and straightforward language make these lines deeply impactful. The use of colloquial expressions like 'hate the bitter, hate the sour' and 'hate trivial matters' adds a raw, honest quality to the verse. The beauty of Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's poetry lies in its directness, clarity, and decisiveness, making it powerfully resonant.

Nguyễn Đình Chiểu is a shining star in the sky of Vietnamese medieval literature. His works clearly reflect his artistic philosophy:

'Carrying morality, the boat never sinks,

Striking down villains, the pen never falters.'

Particularly, the poet focuses on human morality, exploring it from various angles. 'Lục Vân Tiên' is a prime example of this theme, emphasizing the core values and the aspiration to build meaningful human relationships. Among the ideal characters in the work, Quán stands out as a captivating figure. He is a reclusive Confucian scholar, embodying Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's own reflections on life.

'Lục Vân Tiên' is not merely a work promoting loyalty, filial piety, chastity, or virtue; it is a work that elevates humanity and righteousness while condemning all that is inhumane and unjust. The narrative is filled with beautiful, innocent emotions of people helping each other in times of trouble, loving each other in hardship, and living with sincerity and integrity.

Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's pen is always passionate and overflowing with love. In writing 'Lục Vân Tiên,' he seems to present moral exemplars. In feudal ethics, patriotism is fundamental. Loyalty to the king is loyalty to the nation, to justice, and to human conscience.

The excerpt 'Lẽ Ghét Thương' from 'Lục Vân Tiên' consists of 26 lines of lục bát verse, spoken by Quán. In his words, we see Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's loyalty not to the king but to the people and their welfare. The poet believes in loyalty only to good kings who care for the people, while harshly condemning cruel and oppressive rulers. Thus, his hatred and love stem from a deep, fervent compassion: 'Because to hate deeply is also to love deeply.'

'Lẽ Ghét Thương' is a heartfelt expression of Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's hatred and human compassion. In the excerpt, there are 26 lines, with 10 dedicated to hate and 16 to love (nearly double the lines on hate). The root of his hatred lies in his deep love for the people. He despises trivialities, deceit, and indulgence because they harm the people, causing them endless suffering and hardship.

The source of his hatred is his profound compassion for the people. Those in power exploit their positions to deceive and harm the people. These are the tyrants, the warmongers who bring suffering to the people—figures like Kiệt, Trụ, U, Lệ, the Five Hegemons, and Thúc Quý. Among the 10 lines on hate, four mention the suffering of the people:

'Leaving the people in pits and traps,

Making them endure endless misery,

Deceitful, exhausting the people,

Morning and night, chaos disrupts their lives.'

His hatred is expressed with intensity and depth. The repetition of 'hate' in the eight-syllable line: 'Hate the bitter, hate the sour, hate to the core,' conveys extreme disdain and contempt. The escalation—bitter, sour, to the core—depicts the increasing depth of his hatred, from a sensory experience to a profound emotional state. This transformation illustrates the poet's use of sensory conversion: from taste (bitter, sour) combined with 'hate' to create a unique emotional expression. Through this escalating portrayal, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu reveals that Quán's hatred is a deep-seated loathing for those who harm the people's lives and happiness, showcasing the deeply humanistic nature of his poetry.

From hatred, Quán expresses boundless love. His confession in the 16 lines reveals his respect, admiration, and deep compassion for virtuous and talented individuals who strive to help the people. He begins by expressing his love for Confucius, who endured hardships in spreading Confucian teachings:

'Love is love for the saintly sage,

Sometimes in Sòng, sometimes in Vệ, sometimes in Trần, sometimes in Khuông.'

He then extends his compassion to Nhan Tử, Gia Cát, Đổng Tử, Nguyên Lượng, Hàn Dũ, Liêm, and Lạc. These are exemplary Confucian scholars who aspired to serve the king and save the people but met with misfortune, untimely deaths, or lack of royal favor. Thus, Quán's love for these virtuous individuals ultimately stems from his love for the people, as he pities those who failed in their efforts to help them.

While the first 10 lines focus on Quán's hatred, the next 16 lines express his direct love for talented and noble individuals whose aspirations were thwarted by adversity. The 16-line passage embodies a vast, compassionate humanism, with the word 'love' repeated nine times in harmonious, balanced couplets. Notably, the passage begins with two instances of 'love': 'Love is love for the saintly sage.' The repetition of 'love' reflects Quán's deep affection for Confucius and his struggles. His love extends even to those who died young without achieving their ambitions:

'I pity Nhan Tử, cut short,

At thirty-one, his dreams unfulfilled.'

He also sympathizes with those who faced misfortune:

'I pity Gia Cát, so talented,

Yet born in the decline of Hán, his fate sealed.'

And those who were wronged, demoted, or imprisoned: Đổng Tử, Nguyên Lượng, and others. From his love for specific individuals, Quán expresses compassion for the bitter fate of humanity in the face of harsh natural and social laws. This love is deeply rooted in his connection to the people, with the ultimate desire for the nation's happiness and peace.

The excerpt is tightly structured and logical. It begins with lines on hate:

'Quán said: I hate trivial matters,

Hate the bitter, hate the sour, hate to the core.'

In contrast, the lines on love begin:

'Love is love for the saintly sage.'

The conclusion ties both sections together:

'Reading through history, I see,

Half is hate, half is love.'

The repetition of 'hate' and 'love' in smaller ideas both separates and connects the themes, creating a cohesive and solemn tone, filled with sorrow and compassion.

Through Quán's words, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu expresses his heartfelt sentiments about love and hate. This expression reflects his moral stance on life, rooted in his concern for the people's welfare. Thus, the core idea of the excerpt lies in the poet's deep and sincere love for the people.

Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, a great poet and a shining star of national literature, is deeply cherished by the people of Southern Vietnam. His works resonate with their souls and character. His magnum opus, 'Lục Vân Tiên,' explores profound perspectives on humanity and society. Particularly, in the excerpt 'Lẽ Ghét Thương,' through the character of Quán, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu expresses admirable views on love and hate.

The excerpt 'Lẽ Ghét Thương,' spanning lines 473 to 504, recounts a conversation between Quán and young scholars. At an inn, four characters—Lục Vân Tiên, Tử Trực, Trịnh Hâm, and Bùi Kiệm—meet. Trịnh Hâm suggests a poetry contest to determine their ranks. Vân Tiên excels, angering Trịnh Hâm, who accuses him of cheating. In this context, Quán steps in to discuss the nature of love and hate in life. He begins by introducing himself:

'Quán said: Having studied the classics,

Reading them brings constant sorrow.

When asked, I must speak,

For to hate deeply is also to love deeply.'

Quán, once a scholar with dreams of fame and service, retreated into seclusion due to life's upheavals and societal turmoil. Yet, the essence of a scholar never left him. Quán represents the archetype of talented Confucian scholars who choose a life of leisure, harmony with nature, and self-contentment. He serves as the author's mouthpiece.

Through the line, 'For to hate deeply is also to love deeply,' Quán reveals the inseparable bond between these opposing emotions: hate and love. Though contradictory, they coexist. People hate the trivial and deceitful, hence they love the kind and virtuous. Thus, they are intertwined and inseparable.

In response, Vân Tiên humbly seeks Quán's wisdom: 'Vân Tiên said: The clear and murky remain unclear, / How can one distinguish love from hate?' Though likely understanding the nature of love and hate, Vân Tiên, as a modest scholar, seeks Quán's guidance.

The following lines express Quán's hatred: 'Quán said: I hate trivial matters, / Hate the bitter, hate the sour, hate to the core. / I hate the eras of Kiệt and Trụ, indulgent, / Leaving the people in pits and traps... / Morning and night, chaos disrupts their lives.' Quán despises corrupt regimes, tyrannical rulers, and endless wars that bring suffering to the people. Each instance of hatred is tied to the consequences of these eras, such as the decadence of Kiệt and Trụ, which plunged the people into misery. His arguments are concise, like a summary of China's corrupt dynasties. His hatred is clear and logical, targeting anything that harms the people, deeply rooted in his love for them.

What does Quán love? 'Love is love for the saintly sage, / Sometimes in Sòng, sometimes in Vệ, sometimes in Trần, sometimes in Khuông... / I pity Liêm and Lạc, dismissed, / Sent home to teach the common folk.' While his tone is filled with anger when discussing hate, it softens when expressing love. The names he mentions—Confucius, Nhan Hồi, Trình Di, Đào Tiềm, Hàn Dũ—are renowned historical figures of virtue, talent, and compassion. These individuals, despite their contributions, faced hardship and adversity. Quán's love is for the virtuous and talented who endure struggles, reflecting his respect and admiration for them. From this love, Quán draws his own reflection:

'Reading through history, I see,

Half is hate, half is love.'

The work is written in simple, unadorned language but is rich in expressive power. The use of contrast—pits versus traps, morning versus night—adds rhythm and flexibility to the verse. Repetition, such as 'love for' and 'pity for,' effectively conveys the author's sentiments.

'Lẽ Ghét Thương' is the excerpt that most clearly embodies Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's thoughts and perspectives through the character of Quán. Quán's deep love for the people fuels his hatred for tyrannical rulers who oppress the innocent. Behind the poignant verses lies the profound humanitarian spirit of Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's expansive heart.