Top 10 Most Thought-Provoking Essays on the Poem "Đất Nước" by Nguyễn Khoa Điềm

The theme of the nation is one of the timeless subjects in Vietnamese literature and other fields. We encounter the image of the nation often, not just in literature and poetry, but also in the songs of our grandmothers and mothers. The nation appears through the sorrow and loss in the poems of Hoàng Cầm; we see it transforming day by day through the works of Nguyễn Đình Thi. However, perhaps the most complete and profound depiction of the nation comes through Nguyễn Khoa Điềm's poem "Đất Nước". The poem portrays the nation's shape from its birth to the struggles it faced during the wars, vividly recreated through Nguyễn Khoa Điềm's sensitive and expansive poetic soul. The author views the nation from various angles, reflecting the ups and downs of its history. The nation is a sacred yet simple concept, filled with deep emotions. The poem opens with delicate and subtle verses that take the reader back to the days of its creation: *"When we grew up, the nation was already there The nation existed in those ancient days Days when mother often told tales The nation began with a betel leaf now eaten by grandmothers The nation grew as our people learned to plant bamboo to fight invaders."* The nation is depicted through simple, familiar lines, not as an abstract concept but as a tangible reality present in our everyday lives. The author uses the word "when" to mark the birth of the concept of "nation". From the moment we are born, the nation already exists. Following this line, the author begins to explain the origins of the nation, which everyone yearns to understand. The gentle and sweet tone leads the reader back to "those old days". This phrase evokes something from the distant past, an indeterminate time, but it is known that it has existed for a long time. The nation was also formed when our people knew how to fight invaders. It is through these people that the nation was made... The nation is also inseparable from the humble lives of Vietnamese farmers. The author does not stop there, the nation is further explained as the result of labor in building and developing the country: *"The beams and columns have names The rice grain is the result of a long, hard labor The nation has existed since then"* Every tool created for daily life and production, such as the "beams, columns", is linked to the history of the nation. It is simple, but it serves as a profound explanation. Nguyễn Khoa Điềm takes the reader through various emotional layers of the nation, including the story of youthful, shy, yet passionate love: *"The land is where you go to school The water is where I bathe The nation is where we meet The nation is where you lost your scarf in a silent longing"* The nation is not only visible in the cultural space, customs, and traditions of the people but also in the most sincere and passionate love stories. The author cleverly separates the word "nation" into "land" and "water" to explain the meaning of each word. This is a refined and poetic approach by Nguyễn Khoa Điềm. But even when separated, the concept of the nation remains whole and meaningful. The nation is also seen through the length of history and the vastness of cultural space, with people still yearning to find the image of their homeland. The nation is formed through ancient stories, from myths and legends that are passed down through generations. The images of the "phoenix bird", "Bà Đen, Bà Điểm mountains", and "Lạc Long Quân and Âu Cơ" serve as evidence of our proud history. Remembering the roots, recalling the hardships of the past, reflects our national tradition of remembering the source of the water we drink. The nation, in Nguyễn Khoa Điềm's view, is also the continuation of tradition: *"Those who have passed away Those who are alive Loving each other and having children Carrying the burden left by those who came before Instructing their children about the future"* Through its formation and development, the rich cultural history is increasingly affirmed. Those who sacrificed for the nation, and the future generations, must strive to preserve and enhance this noble tradition. Nguyễn Khoa Điềm offers a multifaceted perspective of the nation, covering daily life, history, space, and time, providing readers with a true understanding of the nation we live in and contribute to. Above all, the author affirms: *"In you and me today There is a part of the nation"* The nation has entered our blood and bones, reminding us of our responsibilities and duties in building and protecting this nation. Nguyễn Khoa Điềm also accumulates the nation into a profound concept: *"And everywhere across the fields and hills There is a shape, a wish, a way of life inherited from our ancestors Oh, the nation, after four thousand years, wherever we go we see Lives that have become our mountains and rivers"* A profound belief with deep human values that leaves no doubt about the existence of the nation as a reality. The nation also symbolizes gratitude to those who sacrificed for the peace and freedom of today: *"They lived and died Simply and calmly No one remembers their faces But they made the nation"* This further clarifies the definition of "nation", where those who have passed away still live on in the hearts of those left behind. In the last two lines, Nguyễn Khoa Điềm offers the most accurate and profound definition of the nation: *"This nation belongs to the people The nation of the people, the nation of folk songs and legends."* Indeed, the people are the true owners of the nation. Therefore, this nation must belong to the people. The author's thought is progressive, deeply human, and highly insightful. Through compelling reasoning and examples, Nguyễn Khoa Điềm affirms the vital role and importance of the nation in the life of every individual. Closing the pages of "Đất Nước", we are left with deep emotions and thoughts, as the poignant verses resonate in our hearts, both for the listener and the reader."

The theme of the country is a profound subject that often evokes strong feelings in poets, especially during times when national independence faces significant challenges. The excerpt 'Đất Nước' from the epic poem *Mặt đường khát vọng* by Nguyễn Khoa Điềm emerged during a similar period. It was written during the intense years of the American resistance, where the life of every individual was closely tied to the fate of the country. By writing *Mặt đường khát vọng*, Nguyễn Khoa Điềm aimed to awaken the younger generation in the southern part of Vietnam. The excerpt 'Đất Nước' is from Chapter V of this epic and is considered the most striking section of the entire work. It reflects the profound awareness of a generation of Vietnamese youth about their homeland. This realization became the foundation for individuals to contemplate their responsibilities toward the nation.

Professor Trần Đình Sử describes Nguyễn Khoa Điềm’s 'Đất Nước' as a political poem expressing the view 'The Country belongs to the People.' It is called political because the poet discusses the country and its people. These concepts of the country are both familiar and novel, and the poet does not merely define what the country and the people are. He wishes to express his deep love for both. The combination of these two aspects creates a poem that is both emotional and political. The entire excerpt is divided into sections and smaller passages, each responding to a specific question, with the questions connected to each other cohesively. The poem starts with questions about time, as the poet invites readers to look back at history to find the moment the country was born:

When we grew up, the Country was already there
The Country is in the “once upon a time…” that mother often tells
The Country begins with the betel leaf grandmother eats now
The Country grew when our people learned to plant bamboo to fight invaders
Mother’s hair is tied at the back
Parents love each other with salty ginger, sour vinegar
The beams and columns have their own names…

In this short verse, several time indicators appear: 'once upon a time,' 'now,' 'since that day.' These phrases are associated with everyday symbols like the betel leaf that grandmother eats, suggesting that the country has existed for a long time, from ancient times in folklore, customs, the love of every family, and in every grain of rice. After each question defining love and the country, Nguyễn Khoa Điềm searches for an answer to a more familiar question: What is the land? This is not a new question, and Nguyễn Khoa Điềm is not the first to ask it. People have defined it in history, geography, and ethnology. For a long time in literature, people have sought an answer to the question: What is the country? What is new in Nguyễn Khoa Điềm’s approach is that he seeks an answer that belongs to his own generation. In the following lines, the poet offers his insights:

The land is where you go to school
The water is where you bathe
The Country is where we meet
The Country is where you drop your scarf in your silent longing.

The country is simple, unique, poetic, and has a captivating power that draws the reader in. But perhaps the poem is not just for the youth, nor only for lovers, but for everyone. The definition of the Country is extended but explained in a very simple, reasonable, and convincing way. It explains the country through two dimensions of time and space, 'endless time, vast space,' within which appears a country with a magnificent form, depicted by images like 'the phoenix bird flying to the silver mountain' and 'the fish like an ancient creature of the ocean.' This is a lyrical and majestic vision of the country. The poet returns to myths and uses them to explain what the country is:

The land is where the Bird returns
The water is where the Dragon resides.

Lạc Long Quân and Âu Cơ gave birth to the people in a hundred eggs,

The country creates everyone, all generations—those who are living and those who have passed away. But wherever they are, every citizen of the country bows their head to remember the day of the national founders. The country is both sacred and vast, yet also familiar and intimate. The country exists within you, within me, and within everyone, across past generations, the present, and the future. There will always be a country full of love and meaning. The political voice remains firm, while the poetry overflows with emotions:

My dear, the country is our flesh and blood
...
Making the country eternal…

Reading these lines by Nguyễn Khoa Điềm, we recall a line by Chế Lan Viên, who also frequently expresses grand ideas in his poetry when contemplating the country. Though they belong to different generations, both seem to meet when discussing their deep love for their homeland. Nguyễn Khoa Điềm writes, 'The Country is our flesh and blood,' and therefore, one must 'embody the form of the homeland,' while Chế Lan Viên writes:

Oh, my beloved homeland, we love it as our flesh and blood

Political writing requires clarity, and persuasive arguments will make people believe, while emotional language stirs the reader’s heart. The charm of Nguyễn Khoa Điềm's poem lies in the seamless blend of political discourse and emotional depth, elevated through concrete images and gradually reaching a more universal understanding.

In the second part of the poem, a series of concrete images and details about the country appear, which are unique discoveries by Nguyễn Khoa Điềm as he points out the elements that constitute the country. The country is vast and majestic, with a long history that is not something grandiose or impressive but is composed of familiar, ordinary elements. The efforts to create the country do not belong to any one person; it is not just the great heroes and figures who made the country. Ordinary people, those who live quietly and unremarkably, have contributed their lives to the country. These are people who, in their love for one another, have contributed to the country’s beauty, from the Bút Mountain to the Nghiên Mountain, and even to everyday animals like chickens and frogs, which have added to the legendary beauty of Ha Long. Simple names like 'Mr. Đốc, Mr. Trang, Mrs. Đen, Mrs. Điểm' have created famous landmarks across the country.

From these new and unique discoveries, the poet reaches a profound and emotional conclusion:

Oh, the country, after four thousand years, wherever we go, we see
The lives that have turned into our rivers and mountains.

The poet does not stop here, leaving this as the final thought. Emotions and reflections extend further, as everything seems to be about the country: from the young men going to war, to the women staying home tending the fields. Among them, some have become heroes. However, the country is not only made by four thousand generations of people 'who lived and died simply, calmly, without a name, but they created the Country.' The poet wishes to express deep gratitude to the nameless people, to their quiet, simple acts, which, despite being unrecognized, hold immense meaning. These people have passed on the rice we plant, the flame we light, and the voice we speak… After these reflections, the poet concludes: This is a country of the people, of folklore and mythology, a country for everyone, which includes both the heroes and the nameless. They may not leave their names in history, no statues, no memorials, but they have contributed a simple life that has built a great and enduring country, one that will stand the test of time and remain vast within an infinite space.

Nguyễn Khoa Điềm’s contribution in writing about the country lies in his ability to draw from his rich understanding gained from his time in socialist northern Vietnam and his personal experiences during the student movement against the American forces in Huế and the years of imprisonment by the American puppet regime. With sincere emotions and deep thoughts, the poet wishes to share his very personal feelings about the country, enriching the literary depiction of the country in general and in poetry in particular. The land is not the poet’s personal voice but the expression of an entire generation of youth during the anti-American struggle. This is also a distinctive feature of Nguyễn Khoa Điềm’s voice, blending the lyrical with the political in perfect harmony.

The concept of 'land' is a profound and emotional symbol, deeply rooted in the collective artistic spirit of many generations of Vietnamese poets. A truth that stands out is that each time the nation faces significant challenges, the image of the country shines anew in literature with fresh and unique perspectives. The epic poem *Mặt đường khát vọng*, especially the excerpt titled 'Đất Nước,' stands as a beautiful testament to this principle. In this excerpt, Nguyễn Khoa Điềm's reflections on 'Đất Nước' reach a deeply philosophical height.

At first, the land is revealed through the expanse of time. The time in the excerpt 'Đất Nước' is filled with mythical imagery drawn from legends and folk customs. Through this representation of time, the country emerges with a deep, sacred connection to its ancient origins.

Alongside the 'endless time' is the 'vast space.' There is a space connected to the existence of the entire community: 'The land is where our people gather.' Then, there is the space tied to the personal lives of individuals: 'The land is where you go to school - The water is where you bathe'... These dual spaces evoke the image of the country as a unity of the collective and the individual, the community and the person. The land is sacred yet intimately familiar.

The land also emerges from the depth of culture — the customs, ways of life, and the profound Vietnamese identity. The cultural depth is subtly woven throughout the entire excerpt. From a simple custom: 'Mother’s hair is tied at the back' to the sacred ritual of ancestor worship. However, the cultural depth is most poignantly and beautifully revealed in the recognition and praise of the Vietnamese people's beauty: passionate yet loyal love; devotion to relationships, yet resolute and unyielding in the face of enemies.

The philosophical thinking aims to explore and understand unity. The philosophical scope in Nguyễn Khoa Điềm’s perception of the land lies in the fact that through the dimensions of space, time, and culture, the poet discovers the essential core that binds the symbol of the land together. This core, in essence, is the belief that the land belongs to the people.

The concept of a land belonging to the people is the foundation that enables Nguyễn Khoa Điềm’s fresh and unique explorations of the symbol of the land. With this belief in mind, the history of the land is no longer the history of dynasties or heroes, but the history of thousands of ordinary people 'whose faces and names are forgotten - But they created the land.' The land is also shaped by the 'wishes' and 'ways of life' passed down from generations. It is the people who have established and preserved the cultural flow of the country: 'They preserve and pass on to us the grains we plant - They pass on the fire... - They pass on the rhythm... They carry the names of villages and towns...' A large number of verbs grouped together emphasize the grandeur and magnificence of the people who 'created the land.'

The idea of the land belonging to the people has evolved over a long period in the history of national literature (Nguyễn Trãi, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu...). In revolutionary literature, many poets have addressed the idea of the land belonging to the people (such as the poems *Hắc Hải*, *Đất Nước* by Nguyễn Đình Thi, and *Tre Việt Nam* by Nguyễn Duy). However, Nguyễn Khoa Điềm's contribution lies in making this idea the central inspiration, deeply ingraining it into every fine and subtle manifestation of the land’s symbolism. It demonstrates the inheritance and crystallization of the idea of the land belonging to the people at a new level of literary expression.

The opening verse of the excerpt vividly exemplifies the unique aspects of Nguyễn Khoa Điềm’s perception of the land. Through this verse, the land is depicted as vast across time. What stands out is how this depth of time is initially suggested by the 'once upon a time' stories told by the mother. This is not precise historical time with specific dates; instead, it is an ambiguous, magical time from a child’s imagination. It may not be defined exactly but allows a profound and touching sense of the nation’s enduring presence.

The face of the land is imagined through everyday, familiar details from life. There is something quite meticulous and detailed in Nguyễn Khoa Điềm’s perception of the land. From how hair is styled, to folk sayings, to humble objects: the beam, the pillar. Even with something as seemingly insignificant as 'a grain of rice,' the poet shows a deep appreciation of its specific moments: 'one sun, two dew' — 'grinding' — 'pounding' — 'sifting' — 'sorting.' Through this perception, the land becomes an atmosphere that surrounds and nurtures every individual’s life. In every small gesture, there is the presence of the land. The land is drawn near, intimately connected, part of the very fabric of life.

A crucial part of the beauty of the land’s image in this poem lies in the language, which is infused with the essence and fragrance of folk culture. Language is never just language; behind it lies a worldview. The language is deeply rooted in folk culture, reflecting the understanding of the land as belonging to the people. In other words, the idea that the land belongs to the people is not only an internal reflection but is also realized through the form and language of the poem itself.

The tone of the poem is contemplative, rich in thought. It feels both like an expression of inner reflection and a conversation with oneself. This tone causes the image of the land to appear both solemn and respectful, yet familiar and affectionate.

Poet Nguyễn Khoa Điềm is one of the most prominent poets of the younger generation who fought in the anti-American resistance war. His poetry captivates readers with its deep emotions and rich reflection. The poem "Đất Nước" (The Country) is a typical excerpt showcasing his unique artistic style. "Đất Nước" is the first part of Chapter V in the epic poem "Mặt đường khát vọng" (The Path of Desire), written in 1971 during the intense period of the anti-American war.

“When we grew up, the country was already here”

……

The country has existed since that time”

The first nine lines of this excerpt explain and reflect on the concept of the country from a historical and cultural perspective. The country has existed since ancient times, depicted simply, in daily life. The country appears in the mother’s folktale—something that has been around for ages, associated with the betel leaf that the grandmother chews, and intertwined with the traditional values of Vietnamese society. The country is connected with the village’s bamboo groves—linked to the tradition of patriotism. It is embodied in the daily act of a mother tying her hair—representing the customs of Vietnamese women in the past, and with the familiar flavors of ginger and salt—everyday spices that also reflect a way of life based on mutual love and fidelity. The country is symbolized in familiar objects: the beams and pillars of a house. The country is tied to the hardworking tradition: a grain of rice, which endures the sun and wind.

Thus, in Nguyễn Khoa Điềm’s early reflections, the country’s long history is not explained through the succession of dynasties or major historical milestones, but is viewed through the depth of culture and folklore. This marks a new approach in the poet’s exploration of the country’s roots.

The artistic uniqueness is evident in the poem’s brief lines, yet they evoke countless familiar cultural and folkloric elements. This excerpt offers Nguyễn Khoa Điềm’s own definition of the country: not in an abstract, metaphysical sense, but in a way that is familiar and close to each person—"The country of the people." The language is rich in cultural nuances, creating an artistic space that is both intimate and profound.

“The country is where you go to school”

………………………………………….

The country is complete and vast”

The country is something very close to every person’s life (where you go to school, where you bathe). It exists even in the private spaces of love: The country is also the space for the everyday lives of the people across generations, “Those who have passed away, those who are now here. Loving each other and giving birth. Carrying the legacy of those before us…”

The country is felt across the span of time, from the past to the present and the future. It is a sacred, heroic country in the past (linked to the legend of Lạc Long Quân and Âu Cơ, the story of the Hùng Kings founding the nation). It is a simple, familiar country in the present (“In you and me today, there is a part of the country”). And a bright and hopeful country in the future (“When our children grow up, they will take the country far away. To days full of dreams”).

From this perception and explanation of the country, the poet reflects on the responsibility of every individual: The country is embodied and transformed in the lives of every person. Therefore, everyone must contribute, taking responsibility for the lasting strength of their homeland. We must understand that the life of each person is not solely theirs but belongs to the country as well.

“Wives who remember their husbands contribute to the country with the Vọng Phu mountain”

The loving couple contributes to the Trống Mái rock”

…………………………………………………………….

Oh, the country, after four thousand years, wherever we go, we see

The lives that have turned into our mountains and rivers…”

The poet gazes upon his country through its landmarks stretching from North to South. Each place mentioned is tied to a myth, legend, or truth about the people in history. In other words, the legends, myths, and historical truths about the people have shaped the identity of these landmarks, making them famous historical and cultural sites. For instance, the wives who remembered their husbands—the Vọng Phu mountain, the loving couple—the Trống Mái rock, the poor scholar—the Bút mountain, the Nghiên mountain, Ông Đốc, Ông Trang, Bà Đen, Bà Điểm…

Through the poet’s eyes, each landmark is not only a brushstroke on the “map” of the country, but also a reflection of the beauty of the people’s souls throughout thousands of years of history: loyalty; love; patriotism; respect for ancestors; the spirit of learning; the determination to overcome hardships; the willingness to sacrifice for the community and the nation…

When reflecting on the “four thousand years of the country,” Nguyễn Khoa Điềm emphasizes the “countless” simple and serene individuals. “No one remembers their face or name. But they have made the country.” These are the people who have preserved and passed on to future generations the material and spiritual cultural values of the country: the rice, the fire, the voice, the language, and the cultural identity of different regions… They are the ones who “Fight invaders when they come. Fight internal enemies when they rise” to safeguard the sovereignty and build the foundation of the nation for future generations to inherit and develop.

By affirming “The country belongs to the people,” the poet returns to the rich, beautiful origins of culture and folklore, exemplified in folk songs. Folk songs are the spiritual face, the place where the emotions of the people are preserved through generations. Nguyễn Khoa Điềm selected three key elements from the treasure trove of folk poetry that symbolize the Vietnamese soul and the national identity of the country: passionate love, valuing relationships, and perseverance in the struggle for victory.

Through the creative use of lyrical-political poetry, the excerpt from "Đất Nước" encapsulates the thoughts, reflections, and experiences of the poet and a whole generation of artists, forming a declaration of the ideology: “The country belongs to the people.”

“They lived and died

Simply and serenely

…………………………….

Went to take revenge without fearing the long journey”

The imagery tied to the sequence of verbs: grains of rice, fire, voice, village names, dikes, embankments… continues to express the poet’s unique and profound exploration of the country’s land and the deep layers of its cultural traditions. It creates a unified representation of the country throughout Chapter V. At the same time, it confirms that the people are the great force who build, preserve, and carry on the rich traditions of mutual love, hard work, and resilience—these are the noble spiritual values of the country.

In the struggle to protect the country, it is the people who write the epic history. The people, “when faced with invaders, resist them; when faced with internal enemies, they rise and defeat them,” proudly affirming the mighty power of the people against both external and internal threats. It is the people who have forged the unyielding, indomitable tradition.

To transmit the thought of “The Country Belongs to the People,” the writer has drawn from an abundant and incredibly fitting source: the cultural and folk literary traditions.

The poem intertwines folk songs, proverbs, folktales, and a myriad of customs and practices in a creative manner. Sometimes the poet quotes a folk saying verbatim: “Loving you since you were in the cradle,” while in most cases, the poet uses the idea or image from folk poetry: “Knowing how to value the effort of planting bamboo, waiting for the day it becomes a stick,” or “Taking revenge without fearing the long journey.”

In conclusion, Nguyễn Khoa Điềm’s "Đất Nước" is a poetic expression of the poet’s deep understanding of the origin of the country, of the intellect, spirit, and will of the people. From there, the poet asserts: The people are the ones—the subject—who create the country.

With a gentle, sincere, and respectful tone, rich in political thought, simple language, and a creative use of cultural and folk literary elements, the poet deeply engraves upon us profound and new insights about the people’s country. From this, the poem fosters a greater love for the homeland and pride in the Vietnamese people, especially for the younger generation in today’s era.

The two words 'The Land' hold such sacred significance in the hearts of the people. The theme of the land seems to have become an endlessly deep and meaningful subject, explored by countless writers and poets, each finding a different shape to define the beauty of the land. Nguyễn Khoa Điềm, in his Chapter V of the epic poem 'Mặt đường khát vọng,' explores and defines 'The Land' through his own lens. The poet praises the multifaceted beauty of the country while emphasizing the responsibility toward the nation's destiny during challenging historical times.

It is clear that the image of 'The Land' in Nguyễn Khoa Điềm’s perception is closely tied to the people, woven into their everyday lives and ordinary actions. His love for the land is not distant or abstract; it is stirred by familiar objects and daily experiences, even by traditions that have existed since ancient times. 'The Land' appears in the fairy tales mothers used to tell us in childhood. To Nguyễn Khoa Điềm, 'The Land' is present in the betel nut his grandmother eats, in the bamboo groves that have protected the villagers from invaders, and in the customs and practices that have sustained the nation for generations. His recognition of the land extends to symbols like the hair bun and the folk songs that express the hardships of life. This deep understanding leads him to the technique of word decomposition, where the compound word 'Đất Nước' is split into two parts to fully define the components that form the whole.

Land and Water:

Land is where you go to school

Water is where you bathe

Land is where the phoenix returns to the silver mountain

Water is where the fish swim in the vast ocean

Land is where the birds settle

Water is where the dragon resides

Through his thoughts, Nguyễn Khoa Điềm connects the land to Vietnam's legendary ancestors, Lạc Long Quân and Âu Cơ, reinforcing the idea of unity and shared origins of the Vietnamese people. The country, enduring through time and space, is reflected in common, seemingly ordinary things we encounter daily. However, these ordinary things are imbued with deep historical significance and cultural values that have been passed down through generations. This connection between the mundane and the grand is the poet's achievement. The excerpt expresses the nation's love, pride, and devotion to the homeland, creating a lasting imprint of the people's role in building and protecting the land.

In times of war, like during the fight against the Americans, the strength and determination of the Vietnamese people shone through. Their unity and courage in the face of a powerful and aggressive enemy became the essence of the nation's victory. This is the idea of 'The Land' belonging to the people, a thought that permeated the entire revolutionary literature and inspired countless valuable works. Nguyễn Khoa Điềm often references Vietnam's four-thousand-year history, not focusing on kings or famous heroes, but on the countless unnamed people who built the nation:

Through the years, generation by generation

Boys and girls, of our age

Laboring diligently

When invaders came, the men fought

The women stayed behind to raise the children

The Vietnamese people are hardworking and determined, and when the nation is in danger, they rise to defend it, fighting for independence and sovereignty. The poet emphasizes that it is these ordinary, unnamed people who create 'The Land.' Throughout history, it is the people who have preserved and transmitted both material and spiritual values, creating a lasting nation. The poet reminds us of their contributions in the following lines:

They passed down to us the seeds we plant

They passed the fire from one house to another

They passed their voices to their children to speak

They carried the names of villages as they moved

Countless ordinary people have transformed into the enduring symbol of the nation. Nguyễn Khoa Điềm captures this transformation through the faces of the land's geography. Many literary works mention Vietnam's landmarks and legends, but Nguyễn Khoa Điềm uniquely ties these places to the ordinary, selfless sacrifices of the people. The poet presents a beautiful image of the nation through its people's sacrifices:

And everywhere across the fields, hills, and plains

They bear the shape, hopes, and lifestyles of their ancestors

Oh, after four thousand years, we see the lives that have shaped our mountains and rivers...

Nguyễn Khoa Điềm emphasizes the collective identity of the Vietnamese people, portraying 'The Land' as their shared inheritance, and reminding us that it is inextricably linked to the people's legacy. The nation endures because of its people, who are its heart and soul. The poet’s message is clear: Vietnam's greatness comes from its people, whose lives, struggles, and contributions form the very fabric of the land.

In his poetry, Nguyễn Khoa Điềm encourages us to see the land through the eyes of the people, whose love, responsibility, and sacrifice shape the nation’s future. The 'Land' becomes a reflection of the nation's spirit and strength, passed from one generation to the next. It is through their stories, sacrifices, and the ordinary actions of everyday life that the greatness of the nation is built.

In you and me today

There is a part of The Land

When we hold hands

The Land is within us, united and warm

When we join hands with everyone

The Land is whole, vast, and eternal

Through this verse, Nguyễn Khoa Điềm expresses that each of us carries the legacy of the land, both materially and spiritually. This shared responsibility is what binds us to our nation, urging us to contribute to its survival and growth. His words speak directly to the heart, conveying the profound connection between the people and the land they cherish.

Nguyễn Khoa Điềm’s 'The Land' portrays not only the beauty of the land but also the deep, eternal bond between the land and its people. This enduring connection is the essence of Vietnam, constantly growing and thriving through its people's love and dedication.

The nation is always a sacred call, eternal and universal, deeply resonating with the hearts of millions. The concept of the nation enters our lives through the sweet lullabies sung by our mothers, the gentle folk songs, and the heartfelt, proud poems of countless poets. One can encounter an image of a nation marked by pain, yet resilient and defiant in the poetry of Nguyễn Đình Thi, and a gentler, more thoughtful portrayal in the poems of Hoàng Cầm. However, in Nguyễn Khoa Điềm’s work, we find a comprehensive, multifaceted view of a nation that belongs to the people. His thoughts encapsulate all perspectives and emotions toward the nation. Through verses that blend emotion and intellect, lyricism and political discourse, the poet seeks to awaken a sense of national consciousness, unity, and the deep connection between the younger generation and the nation during the years of the resistance against American invasion.

The spirit of patriotism and bravery has always flowed in the blood of the Vietnamese people, ready to fight and sacrifice to protect the independence and freedom of the homeland. During the arduous years of the anti-American resistance, countless poems and writings emerged to inspire the fighting spirit of our soldiers and civilians on the front lines. One such piece that stirs patriotism is the epic poem *Mặt đường khát vọng* by Nguyễn Khoa Điềm, particularly the excerpt *Đất nước*. Nguyễn Khoa Điềm is known for his distinctive style of lyrical political poetry. His works captivate readers with a blend of passionate emotions and profound reflections from an intellectual young man who is deeply aware of his role and responsibility in the fight for his country and its people. *Mặt đường khát vọng* is a representative work of his poetic style. The excerpt *Đất nước*, taken from Chapter V of the epic, offers a fresh perspective on the concept of the nation. In the opening lines of the poem, the poet explains the origin of the nation: "When we grew up, the Nation had already existed" "....……………………………….." "The Nation has been there since then..." The poet directly affirms that the Nation has existed for a long time, ever since people were born on this land, it has always been home. The nation’s creation is not an abstract concept, but a reality rooted in the deep history of the Hung Kings who built and defended the country, their legacy preserved in history. The Nation, therefore, is not just an idea but something deeply rooted in daily life, beginning with lullabies from mothers, ancient stories shared by elders, and traditions that shape our culture and remain with us throughout life. In addition to the nation’s patriotic traditions, Nguyễn Khoa Điềm also highlights the simple yet beautiful customs and virtues of the Vietnamese people: "Mother's hair is tied up at the back of her head" "Parents love each other with 'spicy ginger and salty salt'" For generations, the image of Vietnamese women has been associated with long, neatly tied hair, a symbol of femininity, simplicity, and purity. The poet uses the metaphor of 'spicy ginger and salty salt' to express enduring love and fidelity, akin to the idea that 'the older the ginger, the spicier it gets, the longer the salt, the saltier it becomes'. Such metaphors capture the deep bonds of affection and loyalty that grow stronger with time. Along with traditions and love for one another, Nguyễn Khoa Điềm also evokes the hardworking spirit of the Vietnamese people. From ancient times, people have known how to chop wood and build houses, solid structures that protect against wind, rain, and wild animals. These homes became places of warmth where families gather, share joys and sorrows, and ultimately form villages and the nation. The poet creatively uses the idiom 'One sun, two dew' to symbolize the hard work involved in farming, from planting, harvesting, grinding, to sieving rice. The sweat and effort invested in each grain of rice reflect the Vietnamese farmers’ perseverance and resilience. Through all these elements, the poet asserts: "The Nation has been here since then..." But the specific time remains unknown. What matters is that the Nation is built from shared traditions, customs, and unique cultural values. It is our nation, the nation of the Vietnamese people. Moving forward, the poet offers a unique definition of the Nation: "The land is where you go to school" "....………………………….." "Bow your head to remember the National Ancestors’ Day" The nation is not only perceived in terms of geography and history but also through intimate, everyday experiences. "Land" is tied to the image and activities of a son, while "Water" is linked to the beauty of a daughter. Yet together, 'Land and Water' form a love as deep and enduring as the nation's unity. The ancient saying "The good land lets the birds nest" suggests that the land is where life thrives. The vast history and rich natural resources of the nation have created a place where people live, work, and create the myth of Lạc Long Quân and Âu Cơ, the legendary parents of the Vietnamese people. From these reflections on the nation, the poet urges the people, regardless of time and circumstances, to remember their roots, to honor their ancestors, and to commemorate the National Ancestors' Day. He emphasizes the connection between the nation’s vast geography, long history, rich culture, and the daily lives of its people. After offering these reflections on the nation, the poet calls for a collective responsibility towards the land: "In you and me today" "……………………………" "We make the nation eternal" The nation is intertwined with the lives of its people. It is a nation bound by love and unity, resilient in the face of any threat. The poet expresses confidence in the future generations, believing that they will carry the nation forward and develop it into a powerful force in the global community. "My love" - a phrase that conveys deep affection and reflects the poet's realization that the nation is as much a part of the individual as it is of the collective. He emphasizes that the responsibility of every citizen is to connect with, protect, and nurture the nation for it to thrive forever. The poem demonstrates the poet's sense of responsibility, expressing that every individual is not just a product of their personal efforts but also a part of the greater whole, which is the nation. We inherit its cultural and spiritual heritage, and we are responsible for preserving and nurturing it. "Those wives who remember their husbands also contribute to the nation’s Vọng Phu mountains" "….………………………………………" "These lives have turned into our mountains and rivers..." Nguyễn Khoa Điềm skillfully integrates folklore into the poem, enhancing its distinctive quality. The Vọng Phu mountain legend speaks of the unwavering devotion of a wife waiting for her husband, while the legend of the Trống Mái mountain reflects marital loyalty. These stories, along with other historical figures and legends, form the foundation of national pride. The poet also honors the history of the nation, celebrating the bravery of national heroes like the young Thánh Gióng, who fought to defend the country. The sacred land of the Hung Kings’ Temple serves as a powerful symbol of the nation's origins, representing the enduring unity of the people. Vietnam’s historical and cultural richness is evident in the struggles and triumphs of its people, who have always faced challenges with resilience, from the famous heroes to the unsung heroes of everyday life. The poet calls attention to the quiet yet enduring strength of these ordinary people, who are as much a part of the nation as the monuments and legends that fill its history. The poet emphasizes that the nation’s creation is the result of the collective efforts of its people, through both the renowned and the ordinary, those who have contributed to Vietnam’s lasting legacy. The poet’s heartfelt reflections encourage us all to recognize the contributions of those who came before us, to honor them, and to ensure that the nation continues to grow and thrive in the future.

The concept of the nation has been a timeless theme in Vietnamese literature. We have encountered the nation submerged in sorrow and loss through the poetry of Hoang Cam; a nation undergoing transformation daily in the verses of Nguyen Dinh Thi. Yet, perhaps the most complete and profound portrayal of the nation comes through the poem 'The Nation' by Nguyen Khoa Diem. The shape of the nation, from its birth to the turbulent waves of war, is vividly reimagined through the delicate and expansive spirit of Nguyen Khoa Diem's poetry. The poet views the nation from various angles, traversing the highs and lows of history. The term 'nation' is both sacred and simple, yet it carries an immense depth of emotion as felt by the poet. The poem begins with gentle, subtle lines that bring the reader back to the early days of the nation’s birth: 'When we grew up, the nation had already existed' 'The nation was present in the 'once upon a time, mother would often tell...' 'It began with the betel nut that grandmother now chews' 'It grew as our people learned to grow bamboo and fight invaders.' The nation is portrayed in these verses as something simple and familiar, not an abstract concept but a reality that exists in the everyday lives of each person. The poet uses 'when' to mark the birth of the concept of 'the nation.' From the moment we are born, the nation has already existed. Following these lines, the poet proceeds to explain the origins of the nation that everyone longs to understand. The tone is gentle and sweet, leading the reader into the distant past. The phrase 'once upon a time' signifies something ancient, without a specific timeline, but clearly existing for a long time. The nation was formed when the people first learned to fight invaders, and it is these people who created the nation. The nation is also linked to the humble life of the Vietnamese farmers. The poet does not stop here, but further explains that the nation is the product of labor in building and developing: 'From the beams and pillars came names' 'From the rice that endured the scorching sun and grinding, came the flour' 'The nation has existed since then.' Even everyday tools, such as the 'beams and pillars,' are connected to the historical birth of the nation. So simple, so real, yet it serves as a profound explanation. The image of the nation in the first nine lines of the poem is both fresh and endearing, presented with a sense of warmth and closeness. Nguyen Khoa Diem leads the reader through another emotional layer of the nation, reflecting a love story—timid yet passionate and sincere: 'Land is where you go to school' 'Water is where you bathe' 'Nation is where we meet' 'Nation is where you drop your scarf, secretly longing' The nation is not only seen in cultural practices but also in the intimate and heartfelt love between two people. The poet breaks down 'nation' into 'land' and 'water,' offering a delicate and poetic interpretation. Even when split, 'nation' remains a complete and meaningful concept. The nation unfolds across the vast expanse of history and culture, with individuals still striving to reconnect with their homeland. It is formed from ancient tales, from legendary stories that continue to be passed down. The images of the 'phoenix,' 'Mount Ba Den, Ba Diem,' and 'Lac Long Quan Au Co' stand as proof of the nation's proud and resilient journey. Remembering the roots and past struggles is the tradition of remembering those who came before us. Nguyen Khoa Diem also emphasizes the nation's continuity through tradition: 'Those who have passed' 'Those who are here now' 'Loving and bearing children' 'Carrying the legacy of those who went before' 'Advising future generations' The nation’s development is affirmed through its culture and history. Those who fell for the nation, and future generations, must work hard to preserve and uphold this proud tradition. Nguyen Khoa Diem provides a multi-dimensional perspective on the nation, touching on daily life, history, space, and time, leading the reader to a deeper understanding of the nation we live in and contribute to. Above all, the poet affirms: 'In you and me today' 'There is a part of the nation.' Indeed, the nation has become a part of each person, a reminder of our responsibility to contribute to building and safeguarding its strength. The poet also captures a profound and lasting concept of the nation: 'And wherever on the fields, hills, and plains' 'We carry a shape, a dream, a way of life inherited from our ancestors' 'Oh, the nation after four thousand years, wherever we go we see' 'Lives that have turned into mountains and rivers of our land.' This profound worldview leaves no doubt about the nation’s undeniable existence as a tangible reality. The nation also symbolizes deep respect and gratitude for those who sacrificed for peace and freedom today: 'They lived and died' 'Simply and calmly' 'No one remembers their faces or names' 'But they made the nation.' This further deepens the poet’s explanation of the 'nation'—those who may have died, but whose spirits remain alive in the lives of those who carry on. Ultimately, Nguyen Khoa Diem provides a definitive and profound definition of the nation: 'This nation belongs to the people' 'A nation of the people, a nation of folk songs and legends.' Indeed, the people are the true owners of the nation. Therefore, this nation belongs to them. The poet’s thoughts are both progressive and grounded, profound and accessible. In conclusion, Nguyen Khoa Diem, through persuasive reasoning and examples, firmly establishes the nation's immense role in the lives of all people. Closing the book, the images of the nation remain alive in the hearts of the readers.

Since the success of the August Revolution, our nation has endured two prolonged wars of resistance against French colonialism and American imperialism to preserve our independence, freedom, and national unity. Throughout these thirty years, the destiny of our country was a central, pressing issue that influenced every aspect of national life and the heart of every Vietnamese person. Therefore, it is only natural that patriotic feelings became a dominant theme in modern Vietnamese poetry, continuing a deep-rooted tradition in our literature. The expression of love for the country in our poetry is both unified and diverse, reflecting the specific circumstances and moods of individual poets. 'Long Poem of the Thirsty Road', written during the heroic years when our entire nation, including the youth and students in the Southern cities under temporary occupation, gathered their strength and intellect to defeat American imperialism, holds significant meaning. In this context, Nguyễn Khoa Điềm, in Chapter V of his epic 'The Thirsty Road,' defines and praises the beauty of the country, expressing a sense of responsibility toward the nation's fate during the great challenges of history. The concept of 'country' in Nguyễn Khoa Điềm's perception is closely connected to vivid, concrete characters and images drawn from our daily life. The great love for the country is not abstract but is inspired by ordinary things, by customs and cultural practices that have existed for centuries. The country is present in the fairy tales that mothers tell us in childhood, in the betel nut our grandmother eats, in the bamboo groves that have served as strongholds for our people in battle. The country is also reflected in the tradition of hair buns, in the folk saying 'spicy ginger, salty salt,' in the wooden beams, and in rice grown under the scorching sun and the cool winds. This awareness of the country, rooted in simple things around us, led Nguyễn Khoa Điềm to use the artistic method of 'breaking down words.' The term 'country' is split in two, enabling the poet to specifically define its meaning: 'Land is where you go to school, Water is where you bathe, Land is where the phoenix flies to the silver mountain, Water is where the fish swims in the sea, Land is where the birds return, Water is where the dragons dwell.' These reflections take Nguyễn Khoa Điềm back to the past, to the myth of Lạc Long Quân and Âu Cơ, affirming the origin of the unified Vietnamese people. The country endures through time and space, and these images and objects, though ordinary, are anything but trivial. They carry the depth of history, culture, and the rich traditions of our nation. By evoking historical and cultural traditions, along with the vast geography of the country from simple daily life, Nguyễn Khoa Điềm achieved a unique success in this excerpt. The country is the life and breath of every one of us. It spans across time, from the legends of the Hùng Kings to the cultural principle of remembering the ancestors during their annual death anniversary. The unique historical-cultural tradition of our country is created by generations of the people. Therefore, Nguyễn Khoa Điềm's love for the country in this passage is intertwined with his love for the people, and the great pride in the people's role. The concept of 'The Country of the People' became the central idea throughout this excerpt, with the poet's perception of the country being drawn from such close, familiar elements. Perhaps never before in Vietnamese history, especially during the national resistance against the Americans, has the immense, invincible power of the people been expressed so fully. Facing a wealthier and more brutal enemy, the nation's resistance required the collective strength of all its people. Thus, 'The Country of the People' became a dominant theme of the era, shaping much of revolutionary literature and producing many valuable works. In this context, Nguyễn Khoa Điềm's excerpt from 'The Country' in 'The Thirsty Road' offers a unique perception. When talking about the four thousand years of history, the poet does not recount the dynasties or famous heroes, but rather expresses pride in the countless unknown, ordinary people: 'Every year, there are people, generation after generation, The girls and boys of our age, Diligently working, When there is war, the boys go to the front, The girls return to nurture the children.' For the people, hard work and fighting for the country are simple and peaceful because they are guided by the survival of the nation. When the country is at peace, they quietly toil in poverty. When the country faces foreign invaders, they rise up with weapons, willing to sacrifice their lives for independence and sovereignty. These nameless people have created the country. Over long periods of history, the people are the key force in preserving and transmitting both material and spiritual values, ensuring the lasting existence of the country: 'They kept and passed on the rice seeds we plant, They passed on the fire from house to house, from the coal through the old women, They passed on their language to their children, They carried the village names on each migration.' These silent, anonymous people have transformed into the enduring strength of the country. Nguyễn Khoa Điềm perceives their transformation in the geography of the land itself. While many literary works have mentioned the beautiful landmarks and mountains of Vietnam, he links them to the fate and qualities of the simple people, highlighting the noble sacrifices made by the common people, as seen in his work. 'And in all the fields and hills, There is no shape, no wish, no way of life like our ancestors, Oh, the country after four thousand years, wherever we go we see, The lives that have become our mountains and rivers.' By clarifying the idea of 'The Country of the People' from many perspectives, the passage offers a sense of belief in the enduring nature of the nation. The country belongs to the people, and the people are vast, great, and immortal. Therefore, the country will live on forever with its people. In contemplating the People's country, the country of folk songs and myths from the perspective of the youth in the age of national resistance against American imperialism, Nguyễn Khoa Điềm emphasizes the responsibility toward the country's destiny. Is this not the very purpose of 'The Country' when it was written during the intense, heroic years of war, when history called on every person to embody the image of the homeland? This sense of responsibility is naturally integrated into the process of exploring the deeper meaning of the country. Initially, the country appears as something external, something around us. But over time, the country becomes a part of us, a part of everyone: 'In you and me today, There is a part of the Country, When we hold hands, The Country in us is harmonious and full of warmth, When we hold hands with everyone, The Country is complete, vast.' Every person today inherits the precious material and spiritual heritage of the country, of the people, and of the generations before us. Therefore, we must dedicate our lives to the survival of the country. The poet expresses this responsibility with great emotion, making it a heartfelt commandment: 'Oh my love, the Country is the blood and bones of ours, We must connect and share, We must embody the image of our homeland, To create the Country forever.' Thus, in continuing the patriotic poetic tradition in our nation's literature, 'The Country' in the epic 'The Thirsty Road' by Nguyễn Khoa Điềm brings forth a unique perception and presentation. The success of this excerpt contributes to showcasing the intellectual depth and exploration of a poet matured by the era of national resistance against American imperialism, working heroically for the country.

The chapter 'The Land' from the epic poem 'The Road of Aspiration' reflects Nguyễn Khoa Điềm's views on the crucial role and the tremendous sacrifices of the people in the long-standing struggle for the nation's creation and defense. Like other prominent young poets of the anti-American war era, Nguyễn Khoa Điềm expressed his thoughts on the people through his personal experiences. The guiding thought 'The land of the people, the land of folklore and mythology' dominates both the content and form of Chapter V of this epic poem.

This main idea is expressed in a lyrical-political poetic form. The poet's argument is simple and persuasive: it is not anyone else, but the anonymous people who have created and preserved the country, and who have built the nation's thousands of years of culture and history. The poet does not express this argument abstractly, but through vivid images and with an enthusiastic and sincere tone. Through the verses blending emotion with thought, lyricism with politics, Nguyễn Khoa Điềm seeks to awaken the national consciousness, the sense of attachment to the people and the country among the youth during the anti-American years.

Using the form of a heartfelt conversation with a beloved, Chapter V appears loose and free, yet each part is firmly rooted in the central thought: the people's land. This idea is vividly expressed on several levels: through time (the endless passage of time) and the depth of cultural traditions, customs, and the national spirit. These aspects are tightly connected and unified in one 'reference system'. The land of the people is the soul of the entire poem.

The entire Chapter V of 'The Road of Aspiration' is surrounded by the atmosphere of folk culture. Nguyễn Khoa Điềm has skillfully and extensively used elements of folk culture, from proverbs and folk songs to myths, legends, customs, and daily life of the people. These materials create an artistic world that is both familiar and profound, evoking the sacred soul of the country. This is not just an artistic technique, nor a mere creative appropriation of folk culture. The thought 'The land of the people' permeates every aspect of the poem – from ideas to emotions, from images to artistic details.

The beginning of the poem can be seen as a definition of the land. This definition is expressed in a unique poetic way through vivid and concrete images.

First and foremost, the land is not an abstract concept, but something deeply familiar and intimate, found in the daily life of every individual: The land is seen in the stories told by mothers, in the 'betel leaf' eaten by elders, in the beams and pillars of homes, and in the rice and meals we consume daily. The land is not something distant, but is inherent in the very blood and flesh of you and me:

In you and me today
There is a part of the Land

Nguyễn Khoa Điềm highlights the deep connection between personal destinies and the collective fate of the nation and its people. This reflects the spirit of the era when the issue of nationality was seen as a universal concern. Responsibility toward the land is essentially responsibility for oneself:

Oh my love, the Land is our blood and bones,
We must be connected and share,
We must transform into the shape of our homeland,
To make the Land last forever.

The land is also shaped by the historical, cultural, and traditional legacies of the people, passed down over millennia. The poet explores the significance of the Land in relation to space, time, history, and the present. The depth of history, traditions, customs, and culture is evoked through the myth of Lạc Long Quân and Âu Cơ, through the legend of the Hung Kings and their death anniversary, through familiar proverbs and folk songs. Here, the land is felt as the unity of traditions, culture, and customs that are sacred yet deeply connected to the daily lives of the people. These enduring spiritual values of the land are interwoven with the past, present, and future, nurtured by generations:

Those who have passed away,
Those who are living now,
Love each other and have children,
Carry the legacy of those who came before,
Remind future generations,
Every year, wherever they are,
They still remember - the death anniversary of the ancestors.

With these ideas about the land, the poet then emphasizes the notion that the Land is created by the people. This leads to a fresh and profound view of the geography and landmarks across the country. Landmarks such as Vọng Phu Mountain, Trống Mái Rock, and Bút Nghiên Mountain are no longer just natural scenes, but are felt through the experiences and destinies of the people. These landmarks are viewed as contributions of the people, embodiments of nameless, ageless individuals: 'The couples contributed to the Land with Vọng Phu Mountain, the loving couple created Trống Mái Rock.' 'The poor student contributed to the Land with Bút Nghiên Mountain.' Even 'The frogs and chickens of the homeland also contributed to Ha Long, making it a scenic destination.' Here, the landscapes of the land are portrayed as an integral part of the soul and flesh of the people. It is the people who have created this land, named it, and left their marks on every mountain, river, and piece of land. From these images and landmarks, the poet draws a profound conclusion:

And wherever you go in the fields and hills,
You will see the shape, the desire, the way of life of our ancestors,
Oh, after four thousand years, wherever we go,
We see the lives that have transformed into our mountains and rivers.

The idea that the Land belongs to the people shapes the poet's perception of the history of the country. The poet does not praise the dynasties, nor the heroes recorded in history books, but focuses on the ordinary, nameless people. The Land is primarily for the people, for these simple, anonymous individuals:

Simple and calm,
No one remembers their faces or names,
But they have made the Land.

They worked and fought against foreign invaders, preserved, and passed down to future generations the cultural and spiritual values of the country. The values of the Land – rice, fire, language, villages, mythology, proverbs – are part of the daily life. The emotions and thoughts of the poem build up, reaching a climax to bring out the core idea of the poem, which is both unexpected, simple, and profound:

This Land is the Land of the People, the Land of the People,
The Land of folklore and mythology.

Reading the chapter 'The Land', one can see the influence of the poet's cultural education and the style of a certain poet. Nevertheless, it remains the most representative and refined chapter of the epic 'The Road of Aspiration'. The poem resonates with readers because the poet, from sincere emotions and personal experiences, expresses the collective thoughts of his generation about the Land.