Top 12 Explanatory Essays on Author Trương Hán Siêu and the Poem "Phú sông Bạch Đằng" (Grade 10) - Mytour.vn

The history of a nation is not only defined by victories against foreign invaders but also by its rich cultural heritage, captured through literature and poetry. Among the many poetic works that embody the heroic spirit of a bygone era, Trương Hán Siêu’s "Bạch Đằng giang phú" stands out. Written long ago, it remains a powerful ode to the Trần dynasty and continues to resonate today as a symbol of national pride.

Trương Hán Siêu, a native of Ninh Bình and a disciple of the great general Trần Quốc Tuấn, played a pivotal role in the resistance against the Mongol invaders. Known for his wisdom and integrity, he was revered by the Trần kings and was often called "Teacher". His patriotism and deep reflection on the nation's history are evident in his works. The "Bạch Đằng giang phú" allows readers to immerse themselves in the proud and heroic past of the nation, while also reflecting the personal experiences of the poet.

The poem is considered one of the finest works of classical Chinese poetry in Vietnam and is believed to have been written in the later years of the Trần dynasty. It follows a traditional structure and is divided into three parts. In the opening section, the poet introduces the character of the "guest", a free-spirited traveler who enjoys exploring the natural beauty of Vietnam:

"The guest sails across the vast ocean,

Admiring the moon on the waves.

At dawn, he visits Nguyên and Tương,

In the evening, he reaches Vũ Huyệt.

From Cửu Giang to Ngũ Hồ, from the Three Ngô to the Hundred Viet."

These famous landmarks, revered for their historical and cultural significance, symbolize the guest’s artistic soul, his love for exploration, and his desire to deepen his knowledge. Despite his travels, the guest’s longing for wisdom remains strong:

"His ambition to learn from the great historian Tử Trường,

And seek a carefree life of self-discovery."

As the guest reaches the Bạch Đằng River, he is captivated by the majestic yet somber landscape:

"The endless waves stretch for miles,

Golden sunsets paint the sky,

The water reflects the beauty of autumn,

The reed beds along the shore stand tall, and the quiet banks remain untouched,

The riverbed is dotted with broken spears and scattered bones."

The river appears both majestic and mournful, evoking a range of emotions in the guest. This contrast between joy and sadness, pride and nostalgia, reflects the historical significance of the river:

"How the heroes of the past are now gone,

But their legacy lives on."

The elderly men who recount the victory of Bạch Đằng speak of the glorious battles fought on its waters:

"This is the battlefield where the two sacred kings captured Ô Mã,

And where the legendary Ngô king defeated Hoằng Thao."

The poet highlights the failure of the enemy forces and the triumph of the Vietnamese, underscoring the pride and calm of the elders as they reflect on their victories. The flowing river serves as a metaphor for the eternal victories of the nation:

"The river continues to flow,

But the enemy’s shame will never wash away."

The elders conclude with a reflection on the reasons for the victory, emphasizing the importance of human talent and determination:

"It was the wisdom of heaven and the strength of our people that secured this victory."

The final section is a powerful chorus of praise from both the elders and the guest. The elders express their unwavering faith in the eternal truth of Vietnam’s greatness, while the guest honors the leadership of the Trần kings and the heroism of the Vietnamese people. Together, they celebrate the lasting legacy of the Bạch Đằng River, a symbol of national pride and victory.

I am incredibly proud of my homeland and its deep-rooted tradition of defending the nation. Our country, shaped by the fierce spirit of patriotism, has achieved victories that echo the strength of our people. The triumphant battle on the Bạch Đằng River, led by Ngô Quyền, proved that Vietnam is not weak but incredibly resilient. This glorious victory was immortalized in poetry, particularly in the poem 'Phú sông Bạch Đằng' by Trương Hán Siêu.

Trương Hán Siêu's birth year is unclear, but he passed away in 1354. A native of Phúc Am village in Ninh Bình, he served as a scholar under the Trần Dynasty, participating in multiple battles against the Mongol invaders. His bravery and intellect earned him the respect of the Trần kings, who often called him 'teacher'. Though not highly educated in the traditional sense, his deep knowledge of Confucianism and his rejection of the prevailing Buddhist influences earned him admiration.

'Phú sông Bạch Đằng' is a lyrical prose poem written in the classical style, blending poetry and prose to create a narrative that paints both historical and emotional landscapes. The form itself is reflective, providing a bridge between the past and present. This particular poem was composed after the Battle of Bạch Đằng, during the decline of the Trần Dynasty. It reflects Trương Hán Siêu’s own sense of shame at the current state of the country, longing for the heroic spirit of the past.

The poem is divided into four parts: an introduction, an explanation, a commentary, and a conclusion. The introduction introduces the guest's admiration for the beauty of Bạch Đằng River. The explanation recounts the battle as shared by the elderly locals. The commentary discusses the reasons behind the victory, emphasizing the importance of leadership, strategic advantage, and, most importantly, the strength of the people. The conclusion brings together a song celebrating the eternal legacy of human virtue.

The guest in the poem, representing the author’s own perspective, embarks on a journey to explore the beauty of nature, symbolized by a metaphorical boat journey. The descriptions of famous places, both from Vietnam and China, create a rich tapestry of both geographical and historical significance. From the soaring, vibrant imagery of Bạch Đằng’s majestic river to the solemn, desolate imagery of its riverbanks, the contrast highlights the scars of war and the passage of time.

The battle of Bạch Đằng is recounted with vibrant, heroic imagery of the Vietnamese forces, including the phrase “six military divisions roaring,” symbolizing the fierce might of the Trần soldiers. In contrast, the enemy forces are depicted arrogantly, expecting an easy victory, but their overconfidence is shattered by the strategic genius of the Vietnamese army.

The elderly locals reflect on the favorable timing, the strategic geography, and the role of individual leaders, such as Trần Quốc Tuấn, in ensuring victory. Their wisdom underscores the importance of talent, virtue, and the determination to fight for the nation’s future. The final songs, sung by both the elders and the guest, reaffirm the eternal victory of truth and righteousness.

'Phú sông Bạch Đằng' is not only a poetic narrative of a historic event but also a profound reflection on human nature and national pride. As we read this work, we are reminded of the sacrifices made by our ancestors and are inspired to contribute to the ongoing development of our nation.

Each period of history leaves behind literary works with significant historical value for the nation. When reflecting on the glorious victories of the Tran Dynasty, people not only remember the poem 'Nam quốc sơn hà' but also another famous literary work. That is the poem 'Phú Sông Bạch Đằng' by Trương Hán Siêu. This poem is not only an excellent piece of literature but also a work that expresses national pride, conveying profound philosophical thoughts worthy of reflection.

The inspiration behind 'Phú Sông Bạch Đằng' is one of heroism and tragedy. Trương Hán Siêu wrote this work while he was a high-ranking official in the Tran Dynasty, which was in decline and at risk of collapse. During a stroll, he was reminded of the past glorious history of the nation. Therefore, 'Phú Sông Bạch Đằng' carries both historical and contemporary inspiration, with deep philosophical lessons woven throughout.

In terms of form, 'Phú Sông Bạch Đằng' is written in classical Chinese characters and follows the Phú genre, using the dialogue structure of 'host-guest' to convey its content. The poem is uniquely structured as a narrative. According to the traditional structure of Phú poetry, the poem can be divided into three parts: the introduction (from the beginning to 'the traces of the past still remain'), which introduces the character and the reason for the composition; the second part (from 'Along the river, the elders...') which describes the dialogue between the 'guest' and the local elders; and the concluding part, which is the praise by the 'guest'.

The 'guest' in the poem could be the author himself or an anonymous lyrical character. The poem follows the journey of the 'guest' traveling by boat along the river, passing through many beautiful scenes. Upon reaching the Bạch Đằng River, the 'guest' hears the local elders recount the heroic battles of the past. As the elders speak and sing, the 'guest' joins in the singing and expresses his feelings, thoughts, and reflections on the Bạch Đằng River and its heroic, tragic history.

In the first part of the poem, the author portrays the 'guest' leisurely rowing on the vast waters:

'The guest sails,

Setting the sail and letting the wind carry him,

Drifting on the sea, lost in the moonlight.'

In these lines, we see the image of the traveler who loves adventure and is also strong and free-spirited. He is absorbed in retracing the steps of history to rediscover the nation's glorious past. His mood is one of deep reflection, filled with thoughts such as 'standing still for a long while', 'lamenting the absent heroes', and 'regretting the fading traces of the past'... Under Trương Hán Siêu's pen, the 'guest' becomes a vivid character. The 'guest' may be seen as the author's own voice—a person with the spirit of a warrior, a sensitive poet's soul, and a scholar deeply attached to the country and its history.

As the journey continues, the 'guest' meets the elders. These elders represent a collective image, supporting the 'guest' in his journey and serving as witnesses to history. Their presence creates a natural dialogue atmosphere, allowing the 'guest' to relive the legendary naval battles that once took place here. The heroic feats are vividly depicted through a series of detailed images:

'This is the battlefield of the great battle where Ô Mã was captured.'

'The mound here was once the ground where the Ngô Lord Phú Hoàng Thao fought.'

The atmosphere of battle comes alive in each verse:

'Thousands of ships

With flags waving in the breeze,

Ferocious six armies,

Spears and swords shining bright...'

These striking images and references to historical events emphasize the crushing defeat of the enemy forces (at places like Xích Bích, Hợp Phì, Bồ Kiên...). The victory on the Bạch Đằng River is recounted in the form of a heroic narrative. The sound of battle drums and the clash of swords blend into a sense of national pride and strength, which gradually fades into reflection. The naval battles on the Bạch Đằng River also affirm the historical stature of the Vietnamese people, who were on par with the Chinese. When discussing the reasons for victory, the 'guest' and the elders conclude:

'Indeed, the heavens and earth gave us this strategic place,

And it was thanks to our talented people who safeguarded peace.'

They believe that the nation's victory was not only due to the terrain but also the extraordinary talents of the people. One such great talent was General Hưng Đạo Vương Trần Quốc Tuấn. The Bạch Đằng River, with its vast waves, proudly stands as a witness to the victories and wisdom of these outstanding generals.

'The Bạch Đằng River, long and wide,

With powerful waves rolling toward the East Sea.'

'The unjust perish,

But the heroes live on.'

Readers can discern the profound philosophy embedded in these lines. It is a declaration that the unjust will inevitably be destroyed, while the heroes will be remembered forever.

'The two wise kings,

This river cleansed the battlefield time and time again.'

'The enemy is defeated, and peace reigns,

Thanks to the wisdom of these great men.'

The two kings referred to in the poem are King Trần Thánh Tông and King Trần Nhân Tông, who led the successful resistance against the Mongol invasions. Trương Hán Siêu praises their wisdom and virtue, highlighting how they prioritized the nation's welfare over their own. Thanks to such talents, the country was at peace, and Đại Việt thrived.

The elders' song intertwines with the 'guest's' song. The elders' lyrics affirm the eternal existence of the historical river and the glorious victories that took place there. They also emphasize the eternal truth: the unjust will fall, while heroes will leave their names in history. The 'guest's' song continues this pride while expressing a firm belief in the role of individuals in maintaining peace—a progressive and humane view.

With its grand inspiration and reverence for the nation's glorious past, 'Phú Sông Bạch Đằng' by Trương Hán Siêu embodies love for the country, national pride, and a tribute to the heroic traditions and moral values of the Vietnamese people. The work also carries a noble humanist philosophy, elevating the role of individuals in history. This philosophy is truly innovative and worthy of respect.

Not only is 'Phú Sông Bạch Đằng' a poem with profound content, but it is also considered the pinnacle of the Phú genre in medieval Vietnamese literature. Trương Hán Siêu skillfully uses a simple yet captivating structure, with a tight composition and carefully chosen, concise, and flowing details. Especially remarkable is the seamless integration of narrative and lyrical elements to vividly depict the Bạch Đằng River, rich with lyricism. The poem’s use of historical allusions and literary references enhances its imagery and highlights the epic quality of the work. Additionally, the author successfully blends short and long lines of verse to create a heroic rhythm. Trương Hán Siêu turned 'Bạch Đằng giang phú' into an immortal anthem of the nation.

Although many years have passed, the immense value of 'Phú Sông Bạch Đằng' continues to resonate in the hearts of the Vietnamese people, forever linked with the name Trương Hán Siêu and the national pride that has been passed down from generation to generation.

Trương Hán Siêu was a significant figure and a cultural hero in Vietnamese history. His literary legacy is best exemplified by the epic 'Bạch Đằng Giang Phú' (The Poem of the Bạch Đằng River) - a timeless work of national pride. Born in Phúc Am village, Yên Ninh district (now Phúc Thành, Ninh Bình), he was a distinguished scholar and a trusted advisor to the famous general Trần Hưng Đạo. Known for his strength of character and profound knowledge, he passed away in 1354. In his youth, Trương Hán Siêu served as a strategist in two key battles against the Mongol Yuan invaders. According to records, he made significant contributions to these wars, and literary works mention his dedication to defending his homeland against foreign threats.

In his political career, Trương Hán Siêu was honored for his contributions to the country's defense. In 1308, King Trần Anh Tông appointed him as a scholar of the royal academy, and later, during the reign of King Trần Dụ Tông, he took on many important official roles. In 1353, while leading an army in Hóa Châu (modern-day Huế), he fell seriously ill and, despite his efforts, passed away before returning to the capital. The king deeply mourned his death, posthumously promoting him to the position of 'Thái Bảo' and later to 'Thái Phó' in 1363. He was honored at the national temple in Văn Miếu, alongside other revered scholars of the past.

Trương Hán Siêu was a man of deep learning, profound patriotism, and immense respect for the ruling dynasty. In his youth, he was critical of Buddhism, but later in life, he became a devout follower of the religion, with his works reflecting Buddhist influences. His literary corpus includes 17 poems, such as 'Cúc Hoa Bách Vịnh' (Chrysanthemum Verses), 'Hoá Châu Tác' (Poems of Hóa Châu), and 'Dục Thuý Sơn' (Mount Dục Thuý). He also wrote essays, including 'Khai Nghiêm Tự Bi Ký' (The Memorial of the Khai Nghiêm Pagoda) and 'Dục Thuý Sơn Linh Tế Tháp Ký' (The Memorial of the Dục Thuý Mountain Stupa). In collaboration with Nguyễn Trung Ngạn, he helped compile the 'Hoàng Triều Đại Điển' and 'Hình Thư', which laid the foundation for the feudal legal system of Vietnam.

Among his writings, 'Bạch Đằng Giang Phú' stands out as one of the greatest poems in Chinese classical literature. The poem vividly conveys a fierce nationalistic spirit, celebrating the historical victory over foreign invaders and the indomitable will of the Vietnamese people. Written in the classical Chinese style, it showcases the eloquence and emotional depth that characterize Trương Hán Siêu’s literary genius. The poem’s portrayal of historical events and the courage of the Vietnamese people is a timeless testament to the country's national pride. Its most famous lines read:

'The enemies have vanished, peace reigns,

For it was the strength of the land, and the virtue of its people.'

'Bạch Đằng Giang Phú' remains one of the finest pieces of Chinese-influenced poetry in Vietnam’s history. Its power lies not just in its beautiful prose, but in its ability to connect the Vietnamese spirit with the broader themes of survival, resistance, and national identity. The poem reflects Trương Hán Siêu's deep sense of patriotism and his contemplation of the fate of the Trần dynasty, the people, and the future of Đại Việt. Its impact continues to resonate as one of the most celebrated works in Vietnamese literary tradition, blending artistic beauty with profound historical insight.

The poem’s artistic style is simple yet dynamic, with flexible language and vivid imagery that evoke both grandeur and introspection. Through his work, Trương Hán Siêu demonstrated his mastery of literary form, his deep love for his country, and his belief in the importance of upholding moral and historical values. 'Bạch Đằng Giang Phú' stands as a monumental achievement in Vietnamese literature, embodying both the artistic spirit of its time and the enduring legacy of Trương Hán Siêu’s scholarship.

Our country, with its long history of civilization, has endured many heroic victories in the fight against invading forces. These victories are etched in the annals of our history, such as the glorious triumph of Ngô Quyền on the Bạch Đằng River, which affirmed that despite our country's small size, we are resilient and unyielding. This victory has been immortalized in literature, including the poem "Phú sông Bạch Đằng" by Trương Hán Siêu.

According to historical records, Trương Hán Siêu's birth year is uncertain, but he passed away in 1354. He was born in Phúc Am Village, Yên Ninh District, Ninh Bình Province. Serving under four successive kings of the Trần dynasty, he played a significant role in resisting the Mongol invasions and earned numerous accolades for his military exploits. He was appointed as the Hàn lâm scholar by King Trần Anh Tông. The four Trần kings greatly respected him, often referring to him reverentially as 'the teacher.' A renowned scholar, Trương Hán Siêu was also a statesman and cultural figure whose influence shaped the country and earned him recognition in history. Though he did not achieve high academic honors, he was revered as a learned intellectual who upheld Confucian ideals and rejected the prevalent Buddhist practices of his time, promoting a strong sense of national consciousness that earned him the admiration and respect of his peers.

The poem "Phú sông Bạch Đằng" was written by Trương Hán Siêu in the classical "phú" form, which is a literary genre originating from China. This form is free from rigid rules and is characterized by a focus on lyrical elements. The "phú" genre is often used to describe nature, customs, or to tell stories, incorporating symbolic figures and high philosophical meanings. Trương Hán Siêu's poem follows these characteristics and remains approachable and straightforward.

This poem emerged after the Bạch Đằng victory, during a time when the Trần dynasty was in decline. As a high-ranking official, the author carried the heavy burden of national responsibility, leading to his personal sense of shame, particularly in regard to the nation's history. The structure of the poem consists of four sections: an introduction, an explanation, a commentary, and a conclusion.

The opening section reflects the grandeur and emotions of the narrator as they witness the scenic beauty of the Bạch Đằng River. The explanation section recounts the victory through the oral stories of the elderly villagers. The commentary section presents the elders' reflections on the factors that contributed to the decisive victory. The conclusion reaffirms the importance of human virtue. The narrator, a symbolic figure of the author, participates in the scene by experiencing the vast ocean, raising sails, and drifting in the wind, embodying the poetic spirit. The battle at Bạch Đằng is vividly portrayed through the elders' accounts of the heroic soldiers of the Trần dynasty, whose fierce spirit and patriotism were unmatched. The enemy forces are depicted as overconfident and arrogant, but the elders reflect on the favorable conditions, both natural and human, which determined the outcome. Trương Hán Siêu invokes the image of General Trần Quốc Tuấn to highlight the strength, skill, and moral integrity that were key to victory. The elders' songs echo the timeless endurance of the Bạch Đằng River and the lasting legacy of the heroes, asserting that those who act unjustly will perish, while true heroes live on forever.

After reading the poem, one cannot help but feel a deep emotional connection to the people and the homeland. Trương Hán Siêu stands as a literary giant, and "Phú sông Bạch Đằng" is a timeless masterpiece of heroic poetry.

Trương Hán Siêu was not only a learned and talented writer but also a passionate patriot, a trait clearly evident in his masterpiece 'Phú sông Bạch Đằng,' which remains a treasure of Vietnamese literature.

Throughout the history of Vietnamese literature, many great authors have left behind timeless works. Figures like Nguyễn Trãi with 'Bình Ngô đại cáo' and Nguyễn Du with 'Truyện Kiều' are remembered for their monumental contributions. Trương Hán Siêu, however, left a literary gem that stands as a symbol of strength and national pride: the epic poem 'Phú sông Bạch Đằng.'

Born in Phúc Am Village, Yên Ninh District (now part of Ninh Bình), Trương Hán Siêu was a renowned scholar and warrior. He served as an official under Trần Hưng Đạo and contributed greatly to Vietnam's defense against Mongol invasions. His political career flourished under King Trần Dụ Tông, who trusted him with important duties, eventually appointing him as the Hàn Lâm Học Sĩ. He passed away in 1353, leaving behind a legacy that was deeply mourned by the people. After his death, the royal court posthumously promoted him to the title of Thái Phó, and he was honored at the National Temple alongside the greatest scholars. Though initially a critic of Buddhism, Trương Hán Siêu later became a devout follower, producing works profoundly influenced by the religion. His literary output includes poems like 'Cúc hoa bách vịnh' and 'Dục Thúy sơn,' as well as prose works such as 'Dục Thúy sơn linh tế tháp ký' and 'Khai Nghiêm tự bi ký,' all written in classical Chinese.

'Phú sông Bạch Đằng' stands out as one of his most important works, showcasing his mastery of the Chinese poetic form. The poem exudes a deep sense of patriotism, with its tone filled with hatred for the enemy and pride in the indomitable spirit of the Vietnamese people. Not only is it one of his greatest literary achievements, but it also symbolizes the zenith of literature during the Lý-Trần period. It is considered an epic, with profound themes and unparalleled literary artistry.

Reading the poem, one cannot help but feel the author's profound love for his country and his pride in its history of resistance. The piece evokes the values of heroism and righteousness, concepts also highlighted in Nguyễn Trãi's 'Bình Ngô đại cáo.' The humanistic values embedded in the poem elevate the role of individuals who made history, as emphasized by the concluding lines, which echo the victory at Bạch Đằng:

'Victory endures for all eternity,

For the land is sacred, and the people virtuous.'

The poem is structured into four distinct parts, each seamlessly connected. The opening section conveys the guest’s awe upon witnessing the beauty of the Bạch Đằng River. The main body recounts the glorious battle through the words of the elders, reflecting on the causes of the great victory. The final part reaffirms the virtues and moral strength of the Vietnamese people through a poetic chant.

The work follows the traditional 'phú' form, using a conversational structure between the guest and the host. The guest, with a soul attuned to nature and history, sails on the Bạch Đằng River not only to admire the scenery but also to reflect upon the site of a legendary victory.

The guest's quest to understand the nation’s history leads him to meet local elders—witnesses to the past. These elders, though fictional, provide a narrative device for the author to express his thoughts and emotions more effectively.

Artistically, 'Phú sông Bạch Đằng' exemplifies the highest standards of literature, with Trương Hán Siêu deftly employing the free-form structure of 'phú,' unconstrained by rigid rules. The poem seamlessly blends narrative and lyricism, creating a cohesive and powerful work. Its elegant structure and masterful use of parallelism elevate its literary significance. The poetic imagery is vivid and dynamic, shifting between grandeur and introspective reflection, which captures the reader’s emotions and invites them into the author’s pride in his country, the strength of its people, and a hopeful belief in its future.

Trương Hán Siêu’s profound patriotism, immense learning, and literary genius are all evident in 'Phú sông Bạch Đằng,' solidifying his place as one of the greatest literary figures in Vietnamese history.

When discussing the Trần Dynasty, we cannot overlook the prominent figure of Trương Hán Siêu, whose profound influence on the people of Vietnam is undeniable. A man of vast knowledge and learning, he served under four Trần emperors: Anh Tông, Minh Tông, Hiến Tông, and Dụ Tông. He also participated in the two wars against the Yuan invasion, contributing significantly to the dynasty and earning the respect of the emperors of his time as a great scholar.

Trương Hán Siêu was also the author of several famous works, which remain timeless pieces of literature. Notable among these are the 'Bạch Đằng Giang Phú', 'Linh tế thập kỷ', and 'Quang Nghiêm Tự bi văn'. In 1308, he was appointed as an official in the Trần court, and in subsequent reigns, he held various important positions, including in 1339 as a high-ranking official in the government of Trần Hiến Tông. He continued his service until 1342, when he became a leading official under Emperor Trần Dụ Tông. He passed away in November 1353, before reaching the capital due to illness.

After his death, the emperor posthumously awarded him high titles, including 'Thái Bảo' and 'Thái Phó'. In 1972, he was honored with a place in the Văn Miếu (Temple of Literature) in Hanoi. Throughout his life, Trương Hán Siêu held many important positions and made remarkable contributions to his country. Even after his death, the emperor and the court mourned him deeply, honoring him with prestigious titles. His enshrinement at the Văn Miếu after his death is a testament to the reverence with which the rulers viewed him. Trương Hán Siêu's role in Vietnamese history is akin to that of an ancient sage.

His works often reflect his love for his homeland, its history, and its people. A prime example of this is his work 'Bạch Đằng Giang Phú' (The Ode to the Bạch Đằng River), which vividly encapsulates his nostalgic reflections on the glorious past of the nation.

Following the victory over the Mongol Yuan forces, life returned to normal, and fifty years later, Trương Hán Siêu wrote the 'Phú sông Bạch Đằng', a piece filled with longing for the golden era of the nation. The Bạch Đằng River witnessed pivotal historical events, including the victories of Ngô Quyền in 938 and Trần Hưng Đạo in 1288. The poem, written in the 'Phú' genre—an ancient Chinese literary form—describes historical events in a blend of prose and verse. The work stands as one of the greatest examples of this genre in Vietnamese literature, with its use of vivid imagery, lyrical expression, and an epic narrative that highlights the historical significance of the Bạch Đằng River, showcasing the bravery and victories of the Vietnamese people.

The excerpt from the poem is divided into four parts. The first part expresses the emotions of a traveler gazing upon the Bạch Đằng River:

“There are some who say: The boat glides through the moonlit sky,

Clouds form the sails, storm winds rise,

The morning mist over Tương River,

And the evening breeze near Vũ’s Cave.”

The poet reflects on the past as he observes the river, blending memories of Vietnam's past with a sense of wanderlust, showing his deep love for the country.

The second part recounts the historical military victories associated with the Bạch Đằng River, through the voices of local elders:

“The elders by the river asked my intention,

Perhaps with a staff, others in boats following,

They greeted me with tales: This is the battlefield where the Trùng Hưng victories began,”

Through their words, the poet captures the glory and the defeat of the invaders, reflecting the deep pride of the Vietnamese people in their triumphs.

The third part provides a commentary on the historical context of these victories:

“From the ancient universe, the lands were formed,

Thanks to the wisdom and leadership of our ancestors,

Who secured the nation's peace, defeating our enemies,

Like the legendary battle of Bạch Đằng, where the invaders were crushed.”

Finally, the fourth part of the poem praises the heroic figures who fought to protect the nation:

“The Bạch Đằng River still flows,

Its waves like the tide of history,

Heroes’ names engraved for eternity,

While the invaders' disgrace is forgotten in the current of time.”

In the poem, Trương Hán Siêu emphasizes the importance of great leaders and the collective effort of the people in defending the nation. He uses the Bạch Đằng River as a symbol of the enduring strength and resolve of the Vietnamese people, immortalizing their victories in the face of foreign invaders.

The 'Phú sông Bạch Đằng' is not just a literary masterpiece of the Trần Dynasty; it is a lasting treasure of Vietnamese culture. It reflects Trương Hán Siêu’s talent, the depth of his patriotism, and his role in shaping the nation's literary and historical legacy. It reminds us of the enduring values of bravery, wisdom, and love for the country, encouraging us to continue building and developing Vietnam for future generations.

Trương Hán Siêu was a renowned writer from the Tran Dynasty. His real name was Thăng Phủ, and he held prominent positions throughout four kings' reigns, including Hàn Lâm Học Sĩ and Thượng Thư. A distinguished politician, he was highly regarded by the king and, after his death, was posthumously awarded the titles of Thái Bảo and Thái Phó. Trương Hán Siêu became a celebrated scholar of medieval Vietnamese literature, and his poem 'Phú sông Bạch Đằng' stands as a significant work, inseparably linked with his name.

Known for his upright character and patriotism, Trương Hán Siêu played a key role in both the Mongol and Yuan resistance wars. He was a man of profound and vast knowledge, leaving behind several famous poems such as 'Cúc hoa bách vịnh', 'Hoá Châu tác', and 'Dục Thuý sơn'. He also wrote the inscription for the Linh Tế Tower. He is regarded as one of the great intellectuals of his time. His works convey deep affection for his homeland, pride in the nation's historical achievements, and love for nature. His poetry is marked by delicate language, profound emotions, and vivid, persuasive imagery.

'Phú sông Bạch Đằng' is considered one of his masterpieces, a pinnacle of Vietnamese literature. This poem, written in a combination of verse and prose in Classical Chinese, reflects his love for the country and pride in the nation's heroic traditions. It serves as a testament to the victories of Bạch Đằng River.

'There are guests:

They set sail, gliding through the waves,

Chasing the moon over the vast sea.

They gently strike the boat, coming to Nguyên Tương in the morning,

And visit Vũ huyệt in the evening.

Cửu Giang, Ngũ Hồ, Tam Ngô, Bách Việt.

Wherever they go,

People know them well.

Vân Mộng Lake, full of mystery,

Still, the ambition to travel beyond is ever strong.

They drop their oars midstream,

Seeking freedom like Tử Trường.

Passing Đại Than, crossing Đông Triều,

They arrive at Bạch Đằng River,

Sailing through a solitary afternoon.

The waves stretch endlessly,

The heron’s feathers swaying in unison.

The sky and water merge in the same hue,

The landscape evokes the feeling of autumn.

The riverbank is lined with reeds,

The remote dock is eerily quiet.

The river holds the memory of broken spears,

The hills are strewn with bones.

Moved by the sorrowful scene,

They remain silent for a long while.'

The guest arrives with a soul free from constraints, captivated by nature’s beauty, yet also adding to their wisdom. The journey through various historical sites stirs a complex mix of joy, sorrow, pride, and nostalgia within them.

The elders say:

'This is the battlefield where the two saints triumphed over Ô Mã,

Also the place where the Ngô lord once defeated Hoằng Thao.'

At that moment:

Boats and ships abound,

Their flags fluttering in the breeze.

The six armies stand firm,

With their sharp spears gleaming.

The battle’s outcome is yet unclear,

As the defenses on both sides brace themselves.

The sun and moon grow dim,

The heavens and earth seem to be shifting.

There: Tất Liệt’s might, Lưu Cung’s deception.

It seemed one could strike the whip once,

And wipe out the southern territories.

Yet: Heaven has its way,

And the invaders are left in disarray.

The Battle of Red Cliffs, Tào Tháo’s forces scattered,

The Battle of Hợp Phì, Bồ Kiên’s army wiped out.

Even now, the river flows endlessly,

But the shame of the invaders can never be washed away.'

The elders warmly welcome the guest, sharing their tales of glorious battles with pride and enthusiasm. Their reverence and hospitality help convey the rich history of the heroic victories on Bạch Đằng River.

The guest continues to sing:

'Brilliant are the two saintly kings,

They cleansed this river of enemy forces.

The invaders were defeated, bringing eternal peace,

All thanks to the land’s strength and the leaders' virtue.'

The author praises the wisdom of the Trần kings, celebrating their heroic deeds and reinforcing the crucial role of great leaders in shaping history.

Using the free-flowing phú form, blending narrative and lyrical elements, the author’s work overflows with vivid imagery and emotional depth. The seamless structure and refined literary techniques show the author’s mastery of thought and expression. The poem further illustrates a deep sense of pride in the nation and a belief in its future destiny.

Trương Hán Siêu (?-1354), also known by his pen name Thăng Phủ, was born in Phúc An village, Yên Ninh district (now part of Ninh Bình city). He was a distinguished scholar of the Trần dynasty and a devoted follower of General Trần Hưng Đạo. In 1351, he was promoted to an official position in the royal court. After his death, he was posthumously granted the titles Thái Bảo and Thái Phó and honored at the Văn Miếu (Temple of Literature) in Hanoi. Trương Hán Siêu was admired for his strong character, generosity, romantic spirit, and love for travel, which led him to discover the beauty of Phú sông Bạch Đằng.

Phú sông Bạch Đằng is an estuary between Quảng Ninh and Hải Phòng, historically significant for its role in battles that shaped Vietnam's history, notably the 938 victory of Ngô Quyền over the Southern Han, and the 1288 victory of Trần Quốc Tuấn over the Mongol forces. The poem, written in classical Chinese, has been successfully translated by Bùi Văn Nguyên. Phú is an ancient form of prose poetry used to describe nature, customs, or characters. This poem follows the traditional structure, divided into four parts. The first part introduces the traveler, or 'guest,' who is exploring the Bạch Đằng river and contemplating life’s grandeur. Trương Hán Siêu, the guest, is portrayed as a man of knowledge, valor, and a free spirit, who relishes nature and seeks adventure.

Notable imagery, such as the vast waters and the elegant crane, conveys the majestic beauty of the river and the guest’s appreciation for it. In the second part, the guest meets the elders of the area, who welcome him warmly and share their tales of past battles. The third part emphasizes the immortal legacy of great heroes and their victories. The final section features the guest’s reflections on the historical significance of the battles and their lasting impact, underlining the theme that only the greatest individuals can fully appreciate the significance of such legendary places.

Phú sông Bạch Đằng is a masterpiece of Vietnamese literature, celebrating the nation's pride, tradition, and the noble ideals of its people, while also emphasizing the high regard for individuals who contributed to its rich cultural and historical heritage.