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1. 'My Spring' Essay by Vu Bang - Version 4
GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE AUTHOR AND THE WORK
1. Author
- Vu Bang (1913 – 1984) was born in Hanoi. He was a writer and journalist who began his literary career before the August Revolution of 1945. He specialized in short stories, essays, and memoirs. After 1954, he moved to Saigon, where he continued writing and working in journalism while also engaging in revolutionary activities. In 2007, Vu Bang was awarded the State Prize for Literature and Art.
2. The Work
- 'My Spring' is an excerpt from the essay 'January Dreaming of the New Moon's Sweet Cold' in Vu Bang's collection of essays and memoirs, 'Thương Nhớ Mười Hai' (Twelve Memories).
- The work was written in the context of a divided country, with the author living in the American-controlled Southern region, far from his home in the North. In this essay, the author expresses deep nostalgia for his homeland, his family, and his longing for the country's reunification and peace. These feelings are conveyed through vivid descriptions of the landscapes, streets, and daily life of Hanoi. The natural beauty and cultural uniqueness of the Northern region are lovingly captured in the text, as is the essence of the Vietnamese people.
READ - UNDERSTAND
Question 1 - Page 177 Textbook
Where does the essay describe the spring scenery and atmosphere? What was the author's situation and mood when writing this piece?
Answer:
The essay describes the spring atmosphere and scenery of Hanoi.
- The author's situation and mood:
+ The author wrote this essay while living in Saigon before 1975, under the control of the American-backed government, far from his homeland, Hanoi.
+ The author expresses intense longing for his Northern homeland while living in the South.
Question 2 - Page 177 Textbook
How can the essay be divided into sections? What is the main content of each section, and how do they connect?
Answer:
- Section 1 (From the beginning to 'yearning for spring'): The author's reflections on human emotions related to spring.
- Section 2 (From 'yearning' to 'opening the celebration'): The depiction of the general atmosphere and scenery of spring in Hanoi and the North.
- Section 3 (Remaining part): The spring atmosphere and scenery after the full moon of the first lunar month.
These three sections are connected by the flow of emotions: from general human feelings about spring to specific, personal impressions of the season. The essay concludes with deeper reflections on the first month of the lunar year. This emotional development is natural and logical.
Question 3 - Page 177 Textbook
Read the passage “I love the green river, the purple mountains” to “opening the celebration” and answer:
a. How does the author describe the spring scenery in Hanoi and the North? Which details stand out?
b. How does spring awaken life in nature and people? What emotions are stirred in the author as spring arrives?
c. What is your opinion about the tone and language used in this passage?
Answer:
a. The spring scenery in Hanoi:
- Nature’s beauty:
+ Colors: The green river and purple mountains evoke a dreamy, wistful feeling.
+ Details: The light rain, cool wind, clear roads, and sweet coldness all enhance the imagery.
+ Sounds: The calls of the swallows at night, the sound of drums, and the singing of a beautiful girl fill the air with poetic resonance.
- Spring with people:
+ Spring rituals: Incense offerings, candles on altars to Buddha, Saints, and ancestors.
+ Family atmosphere: Harmony and togetherness, symbolizing a peaceful reunion.
+ People’s emotions: Warmth, joy, and a sense of celebration.
⟹ These are the beautiful cultural traditions of Hanoi and the Vietnamese people.
b. Not only does the author describe the vitality of spring through the external environment, but also through the vibrant energy within people, depicted with sensual imagery and specific comparisons: "Sitting still became unbearable. Life’s sap surged through me like blood… pairs of lovers standing nearby" and "people’s hearts seemed younger, beating stronger during the cold winter days". Even the description of the cold is poetic: "...the sweet cold, no longer a biting chill".
c. The language in this passage is refined and elegant. The vivid and fresh comparisons, combined with creative thoughts and emotions, form a lively yet heartfelt tone, leaving a deep impression on the reader.
Question 4 - Page 177 Textbook
Read from “So beautiful” to the end and explore:
a. How does the author describe the atmosphere and natural scenery after the full moon of the first lunar month?
b. How does the author demonstrate sensitivity and delicacy in capturing nature through these descriptions?
Answer:
a. In the remaining passage, the author focuses on the unique characteristics of the sky, nature, and the atmosphere of spring after the fifteenth day of the first lunar month.
- Natural scenery:
+ Peach blossoms: Fading, but their stamens still vibrant.
+ Grass: Not lush but fragrant in a subtle, enchanting way.
+ Spring rain: Replacing the drizzling rain of early spring.
+ The sky: A soft, rosy light fills the horizon.
- Daily life atmosphere:
+ Meals: Simple, with fatty pork and pickled vegetables almost gone.
+ Household decorations: The ceremonial banners on the ancestor altar are lowered.
+ Fun activities: Gradually fading, making way for everyday routines.
⟹ Life has returned to a peaceful, ordinary rhythm, while the natural world, though slightly changed, remains captivating with its freshness.
b. By recreating these images and the atmosphere, the author’s deep love and longing bring forth a heightened sensitivity to the natural world. This gives the writer’s pen an extraordinary finesse.
Question 5 - Page 178 Textbook
Share your thoughts on the spring scenery as portrayed by the author’s delicate and skilled pen.
Answer:
Through his delicate, masterful pen, the author Vu Bang presents a vivid image of spring in Northern Vietnam, full of vibrant life and the rich fragrance of the season. The beauty of nature during this time envelops the sky and land in a harmonious blend, while the people celebrate family reunions in moments of profound significance. The essay captures the renewal of life as the old year closes, and the new one opens with warmth and joy.
PRACTICE
Question 2 - Page 178 Textbook
Collect and transcribe some of your favorite poems or verses about spring.
Answer:
You can collect and transcribe a few lines or poems about spring that you like. Below are some sample lines:
1.
A single violet blooms in the river’s flow,
Its purple petals gleam bright as the dawn,
The warbler’s song, a melody of joy,
Spring, oh spring, you bring life to the world.
(Spring Song – Thanh Hai)
2.
Oh, the bird’s song as it soars in spring,
Over the rice fields, so free it flies.
Spring is here, vast and joyful,
The ocean’s waves crash, white and loud.
(Spring Song 61 – To Huu)
3.
Spring is here, New Year’s greetings to all,
Wishing health and joy for each home,
We hope prosperity and good fortune bloom,
In this new year, may happiness be full!
(Children’s Spring Poem)
Question 3 - Page 178 Textbook
Write a paragraph expressing your feelings about a season in your hometown or current location.
Suggested answer:
Our country lies in a tropical monsoon zone, so we experience four distinct seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter. While each season has its charm, my favorite is autumn. Unlike the hot, lively summer, or the quiet, cold winter, autumn is the perfect blend of nature, the earth, and people. The autumn sky is clear and bright, with the fragrant smell of sweet-smelling flowers filling the air on quiet streets. The cool breeze that sweeps across the distant fields carries the fresh scent of young rice. The autumn moon, the Mid-Autumn Festival, brings much joy to children with lanterns, moon cakes, and fun games. Oh, how I love autumn! I cherish the autumn in my homeland, which leaves a lingering memory in my heart.
REMEMBER
'My Spring' is an essay about the natural beauty and atmosphere of spring in Hanoi and the North, captured through the lens of the author’s deep nostalgia for his homeland. This piece beautifully conveys the author’s love for his country, his people, and the simple, yet profound, joys of life through his sensitive, thoughtful, and artistic writing style.
2. Analysis of "My Spring" by Vu Bang - Version 4
I. Author and Work
1. Author (For reference, refer to the introduction of Vu Bang in the 7th-grade Literature textbook, Volume 1).
2. The Work
The text "My Spring" is written in the form of an essay, excerpted from the essay collection 'January Dreaming of the Sweet Cold New Moon' in Vu Bang's compilation of essays and memoirs titled 'Twelve Memories.' The essay reflects the emotions of a person living far from home, reminiscing about the lively and sensory-filled spring of the North.
II. Study Guide
Question 1:
* The essay describes the scenery and atmosphere of spring in Hanoi.
* The author’s context and mood when writing this piece: The author was living in Saigon before 1975, under the control of the American-backed government, far from his beloved Hanoi.
=> The mood of deep longing for the homeland, felt by a person living in the South, distant from the North.
Question 2:
* The essay can be divided into 3 sections:
Section 1: From the beginning to 'yearning for spring': Reflections on the general emotional connection people have with spring.
Section 2: From 'yearning' to 'opening the celebration': Descriptions of the atmosphere and scenery of spring in Hanoi and the Northern regions.
Section 3: The remaining part: The depiction of the spring atmosphere after the full moon of the first lunar month.
These three sections are linked by a natural emotional flow: from general feelings about spring to personal experiences, and finally deeper reflections on the first month of the lunar year.
=> The emotional development follows a logical and natural progression.
Question 3:
Read the passage from “I love the green river, the purple mountains” to “opening the celebration” and answer:
a) How does the author describe the spring scenery in Hanoi and the North? Which details stand out?
b) How does spring awaken life in nature and people? What emotions are stirred in the author as spring arrives?
c) What is your opinion about the tone and language used in this passage?
Answer:
a) The spring scenery in Hanoi:
- Nature’s beauty:
+ Colors: The green river and purple mountains evoke a dreamlike, nostalgic feeling.
+ Details: Light rain, cool winds, clear roads, and the sweet coldness all contribute to the sensory imagery.
+ Sounds: The calls of the swallows at night, the drumbeats, and the singing of a beautiful girl fill the air with poetic resonance.
- Spring with people:
+ Spring rituals: Incense offerings, candles on altars for Buddha, Saints, and ancestors.
+ Family atmosphere: Harmony and unity, symbolizing a joyful reunion.
+ People’s emotions: Warmth, joy, and celebration.
⟹ These details capture the beautiful cultural traditions of Hanoi and the Vietnamese people during spring.
b) The author conveys the vitality of spring not only through nature but also through the renewed energy within people, depicted through sensory images and vivid comparisons: "Sitting still became unbearable. The sap of life surged through me like blood rushing through the veins... pairs of lovers nearby" and "hearts seemed to become younger, beating stronger in the cold winter days". Even the cold is described poetically: "...the sweet cold, no longer a harsh chill".
c) The language in this passage is refined and graceful. The vivid comparisons, combined with creative thoughts and emotions, create a lively and heartfelt tone, leaving a deep impression on the reader.
Question 4:
Read from “So beautiful” to the end and explore:
a) How does the author describe the atmosphere and natural scenery after the full moon of the first lunar month?
b) How does the author demonstrate sensitivity and delicacy in capturing nature through these descriptions?
Answer:
a) In the remaining passage, the author focuses on the unique characteristics of the sky, nature, and the atmosphere of spring after the fifteenth day of the first lunar month.
- Natural scenery:
+ Peach blossoms: Fading, but their stamens are still vibrant.
+ Grass: Not as lush, but fragrant in an enchanting way.
+ Spring rain: Replacing the light drizzle of early spring.
+ The sky: A soft, rosy light fills the horizon.
- Daily life atmosphere:
+ Meals: Simple, with fatty pork and pickled vegetables nearly gone.
+ Household decorations: The ceremonial banners on the ancestor altar have been lowered.
+ Fun activities: Gradually fading, making way for everyday routines.
⟹ Life returns to a peaceful, regular rhythm, while nature, though subtly changed, remains captivating with its freshness.
b) By recreating these images and the atmosphere, the author’s deep love and longing enhance the sensitivity to the natural world, making his writing extraordinarily nuanced.
Question 5:
Share your thoughts on the spring scenery as portrayed by the author’s delicate and skilled pen.
Answer:
Through his delicate, masterful pen, the author Vu Bang presents a vivid image of spring in Northern Vietnam, full of vibrant life and the rich fragrance of the season. The beauty of nature during this time envelops the sky and land in a harmonious blend, while the people celebrate family reunions in moments of profound significance. The essay captures the renewal of life as the old year closes, and the new one opens with warmth and joy.
PRACTICE
Question 2:
Collect and transcribe some of your favorite poems or verses about spring.
Answer:
You can collect and transcribe a few lines or poems about spring that you like. Below are some sample lines:
1.
A single violet blooms in the river’s flow,
Its purple petals gleam bright as the dawn,
The warbler’s song, a melody of joy,
Spring, oh spring, you bring life to the world.
(Spring Song – Thanh Hai)
2.
Oh, the bird’s song as it soars in spring,
Over the rice fields, so free it flies.
Spring is here, vast and joyful,
The ocean’s waves crash, white and loud.
(Spring Song 61 – To Huu)
3.
Spring is here, New Year’s greetings to all,
Wishing health and joy for each home,
We hope prosperity and good fortune bloom,
In this new year, may happiness be full!
(Children’s Spring Poem)
Question 3:
Write a paragraph expressing your feelings about a season in your hometown or current location.
Suggested answer:
Our country lies in a tropical monsoon zone, so we experience four distinct seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter. While each season has its charm, my favorite is autumn. Unlike the hot, lively summer, or the quiet, cold winter, autumn is the perfect blend of nature, the earth, and people. The autumn sky is clear and bright, with the fragrant smell of sweet-smelling flowers filling the air on quiet streets. The cool breeze that sweeps across the distant fields carries the fresh scent of young rice. The autumn moon, the Mid-Autumn Festival, brings much joy to children with lanterns, moon cakes, and fun games. Oh, how I love autumn! I cherish the autumn in my homeland, which leaves a lingering memory in my heart.
REMEMBER
'My Spring' is an essay about the natural beauty and atmosphere of spring in Hanoi and the North, captured through the lens of the author’s deep nostalgia for his homeland. This piece beautifully conveys the author’s love for his country, his people, and the simple, yet profound, joys of life through his sensitive, thoughtful, and artistic writing style.
3. Analysis of "My Spring" by Vu Bang - Version 6
4. "My Spring" essay by Vu Bang, Version 1
I. A Brief Introduction to the Author Vu Bang
- Vu Bang (1913-1984), born in Hanoi
- He was a writer and journalist who began his career before the August Revolution of 1945, excelling in short stories, essays, and memoirs
- After 1954, he moved to Saigon where he both wrote and worked in journalism, while also engaging in revolutionary activities
- In 2007, Vu Bang was awarded the State Prize for Literature and Arts
II. A Brief Overview of the Work 'My Spring'
1. Background
- This work was written during a time when the country was divided, and the author lived in the area controlled by the US-backed regime, far from his northern homeland. The writer poured his deep nostalgia for his homeland, family, and the longing for peace and reunification into the pages of his work
- The essay is an excerpt from the literary collection 'The January Moon of Sweet Cold' in the series 'Cherishing the Twelve Months'
2. Structure (3 parts)
- Part 1 (from the beginning to 'loved by the soul'): Reflections on the emotional bond of humans with the spring
- Part 2 (from that point to 'celebrating with a feast'): The scenery and atmosphere of spring in Hanoi
- Part 3 (remaining): The scene and mood of spring after the full moon of January
3. Thematic Value
The natural scenery and the atmosphere of spring in Hanoi and Northern Vietnam are experienced and depicted through the author's yearning for his distant homeland. The essay realistically and specifically expresses the author's deep affection for his homeland, the country, the love for life, and the sensitive, artistic spirit of the writer
4. Artistic Value
- The content is presented in a captivating and passionate emotional flow
- The choice of words and sentences is flexible, expressive, and rich in imagery
- Many unique and poetic metaphors and analogies are used
III. Answering the Questions
Question 1 (page 177, 7th-grade literature textbook, volume 1)
The essay describes the spring scenery and atmosphere in Hanoi
+ Context and the author's mood:
+ The author wrote while living far from his homeland, in Saigon before 1975, under the control of the US-backed regime
+ A deep sense of longing for the Northern homeland
Question 2 (page 177, 7th-grade literature textbook, volume 1)
The essay can be divided into 3 sections:
+ Part 1 (from the beginning… 'enamored soul'): The emotional connection between humans and the spring season
+ Part 2 (from there… 'celebrating with a feast'): The delicate perceptions of the spring scenery and atmosphere in Hanoi, Northern Vietnam
+ Part 3 (the rest): The scenery and atmosphere of spring after the full moon of January
Emotional flow: it moves from the general emotional connection of humans with spring, to the personal feelings about it, and concludes with the reflection on the first month of the lunar year. The emotional progression is natural and logical
Question 3 (page 177, 7th-grade literature textbook, volume 1)
The spring scenery of Hanoi and the natural world:
+ Characteristic colors: the green river, the purple mountains filled with dreams
+ Shapes and contours: light rain, cool breeze, roads not muddy, the sweet cold
+ Sounds: the calls of swallows, the sound of drums from traditional operas, the singing of beautiful girls
+ Human images:
+ Spring rituals: lighting candles on the altar for the Buddha and ancestors
+ Families: reunion, respect for each other
+ People's hearts on New Year's Day: feeling warm, as if celebrating a grand festival
→ These are the beautiful aspects of human life and culture, and they reflect the charm of Hanoi's culture
b. The author highlights the vitality of humans during spring through vivid imagery, with specific metaphors: 'Sitting still is unbearable… the life force of humans rises like blood, with pairs of lovers standing side by side.'
+ A vivid perception of the cold: 'the sweet cold, no longer biting with the harsh cold'
c. The language in this passage is refined and carefully selected. The metaphors and comparisons are fresh and creative, matching the author's inventive style, while the tone is vibrant and affectionate, evoking strong impressions.
Question 4 (page 177, 7th-grade literature textbook, volume 1)
The remaining passage features detailed depictions of unique aspects of the natural world, the atmosphere of spring after the full moon of January
- Natural scenery:
+ The peach blossoms are a bit faded, but their pollen is still fresh
+ Grass: not as lush but gives off a subtle fragrance
+ Spring rain: replacing the drizzle
+ The sky: showing soft pinkish light
- Living spaces:
+ The meal: returning to the simplicity of daily life, with fatty pork and pickled vegetables gone
+ The bamboo curtain on the ancestor's altar has been taken down
+ New Year's activities: giving way to daily routines
→ Human activities gradually return to their usual rhythm, with some changes in the scenery, but the beauty remains captivating with a sense of renewal
The depiction of spring scenery and atmosphere reaffirms the author's persistent love and nostalgia, bringing to life his inner thoughts with a sensitive and delicate pen
Question 5 (page 178, 7th-grade literature textbook, volume 1)
The deep nostalgia of a Northerner far from home, the author vividly portrays the spring scene of Northern Vietnam with real, peaceful, and sweet impressions.
+ The delicate, heartfelt perceptions that only those who deeply love their homeland can experience
+ The spring in the North is a perfect harmony between nature, the land, and its people.
Practice
Exercise 2 (page 178, 7th-grade literature textbook, volume 1)
On spring days, the swallows fly back
The sunshine is now over sixty but still warm
The green grass stretches to the horizon
The pear tree branches bloom with a few white flowers
(Spring Day Scene – Nguyen Du)
Exercise 3 (page 178, 7th-grade literature textbook, volume 1)
Spring is always the most beautiful season of the year, and it is also the most awaited one after long, hard working days. The weather begins to change in spring. The sharp cold is no longer present, replaced by fine drizzle hanging on the branches and leaves. The sky is clearer, no longer dark and gloomy like winter. Birds that have flown south for the winter return, chirping merrily in the tall trees. People are busier, preparing for the upcoming new year while also wrapping up the past year. Children eagerly wait for their parents to take them shopping for new clothes… Spring is the season that embodies all the passion and joy of human beings coming together.
5. 'My Spring' by Vu Bang, Version 2
ABOUT THE AUTHOR AND THE WORK
1. The Author
Vu Bang (1913-1984) was a prominent writer and journalist in Hanoi before the August Revolution. After 1954, he moved to Saigon, where he continued his writing and journalism while also participating in revolutionary activities. Despite being far from Hanoi, Vu Bang often reflected on his beloved homeland, full of peaceful memories and vivid, unforgettable impressions. He wrote the evocative essay 'January Dreams of a New Moon' (published in the collection 'Nostalgic Memories of Twelve Months') to express his deep longing for the reunification of his country.
2. Genre:
'My Spring' is written in the form of an essay, inspired by the feelings of a person far from home, yearning for the vibrant spring of the North.
Main Content
The natural beauty and the atmosphere of spring in Hanoi and the northern regions are vividly recreated through Vu Bang's nostalgic and yearning emotions. It clearly expresses his love for the homeland, the country, and his sensitive, perceptive spirit.
Answer to Question 1 (page 177, Literature Textbook 7, Volume 1):
What location does the essay describe in terms of its natural scenery and atmosphere? What was the author's situation and emotional state when writing this piece?
Detailed answer:
The essay describes the spring scenery and atmosphere in Hanoi.
- Author's situation and emotional state:
+ The author wrote this piece while in Saigon before 1975 under the control of the American puppet government, far from his homeland and Hanoi.
+ The author’s emotions are filled with deep homesickness and longing for the North from the distant South.
Answer to Question 2 (page 177, Literature Textbook 7, Volume 1):
How can the essay be divided into sections? Summarize the main content of each section and explain the connection between them.
Detailed answer:
- Section 1 (From the beginning to 'love the spring'): The author's reflections on the universal feelings people have towards spring.
- Section 2 (From 'love the spring' to 'host a spring festival'): Descriptions of the general atmosphere of spring in Hanoi and the northern regions.
- Section 3 (Remaining part): Descriptions of the scenery and atmosphere of spring after the fifteenth of January.
The three sections are linked through the emotional flow: from universal feelings about spring to personal reflections, and finally, deeper emotional impressions of January. This emotional development is both natural and logical.
Answer to Question 3 (page 177, Literature Textbook 7, Volume 1):
Read the passage 'I love the green river, purple mountains' to 'host a spring festival' and answer the following:
a. How does the author describe the scenery of spring in Hanoi and the northern regions, and what specific details are mentioned?
b. How does spring awaken life in nature and people? What emotions arise strongly in the author’s heart when spring comes?
c. What are your thoughts on the tone and language of this passage?
Detailed answer:
a. The spring scenery in Hanoi:
- The beauty of the land and sky:
+ Colors: The green river, purple mountains that dream of wishes.
+ Outline: Light drizzle, cool breeze, clean roads, and the sweet chill of spring.
+ Sounds: The calls of swallows in the blue night, the sounds of drums, but most striking is the poetic voice of a beautiful girl singing.
- Spring in the lives of people:
+ Spring rituals: Incense, candles on the Buddhist altar, the altar of Saints, the altar of ancestors.
+ Family atmosphere: Quiet reunions filled with respect and warmth.
+ People's hearts in spring: Filled with an unusual warmth, happiness as if celebrating a festival.
⟹ These details reflect the beauty of human life, which is a traditional cultural feature of Hanoi and the Vietnamese people.
b. Not only does the author describe the vitality of spring in the environment, but he also conveys the vibrant energy of people in spring through vivid and evocative imagery: 'I cannot sit still. The life force in me rises like blood,... pairs of lovebirds stand side by side' and 'it feels as if people’s hearts grow younger, beating faster during the cold days of winter.'
c. The language of this passage is refined and elegant, with specific and novel comparisons. The thoughtful emotions and creative insights combine with a lively, sincere tone, leaving a strong impression and evoking a deep resonance.
Answer to Question 4 (page 177, Literature Textbook 7, Volume 1):
Read the passage from 'How beautiful!' to the end and analyze:
a. What is the atmosphere and scenery of nature like after the fifteenth of January, as described by the author?
b. How does the author demonstrate sensitivity and perception toward nature in the recreation of these landscapes and atmospheres?
Detailed answer:
a. In the remaining passage, the author focuses on the unique features of nature and the atmosphere of spring after the fifteenth of January.
- Natural scenery:
+ Peach blossoms: Faint, but their pollen remains.
+ Grass: Not as lush but carries a subtle fragrance.
+ Spring rain: Replaces the drizzling rain of winter.
+ The sky: Shows pinkish hues.
- Daily life atmosphere:
+ Meals: Return to simplicity, with the festive dishes gone.
+ The family altar: The ritual objects are put away.
+ Fun activities: Fade away to make room for daily life.
⟹ The atmosphere has returned to a quiet, regular rhythm, but the natural beauty, though slightly changed, remains captivating, still stirring emotions with its freshness.
b. Through these descriptions, it is clear that the author’s love and longing have awakened deep emotions, making the author’s writing style even more delicate and attuned to the beauty of nature.
Answer to Question 5 (page 178, Literature Textbook 7, Volume 1):
What is your impression of the spring scenery through the talented and sensitive pen of the author?
Detailed answer:
With a masterful and refined writing style, Vu Bang offers readers a vivid portrayal of nature, capturing the distinctive charm of spring in the North. It is a beautiful, vibrant spring, filled with the joy of family reunions, a time to close the old year and welcome the new year with warmth and meaning.
Practice
Answer to Question 2 (page 178, Literature Textbook 7, Volume 1):
Collect and write down some beautiful passages or poems about spring.
Answer:
You can collect and write down some passages or poems about spring that you like. Here are a few verses you might enjoy:
In the middle of the green river
A purple flower blooms
Oh, the little bird singing
Why does its song echo through the sky?
A tiny spring season
Silently offered to life
Even at twenty
Even with gray hair
(Little Spring – Thanh Hai)
Oh, the passionate song of the little bird!
In the spring rice fields, it flutters and soars
Spring, oh spring, come to us
The sea joyously waves white foam on the shore
(Spring Song 61 – To Huu)
Answer to Question 3 (page 178, Literature Textbook 7, Volume 1):
Write a passage expressing your feelings about a season of the year in your homeland or current place of residence.
Answer:
You can refer to the following passage: Our country lies in the tropical monsoon region, so we have four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Each season has its own charm, but I love autumn the most. It’s not as intense and hot as summer, nor as still and cold as winter. Autumn is a wonderful harmony of nature, the sky, and the hearts of people. The autumn sky is clear and bright, with the fragrant scent of milk flowers filling the quiet streets, so no one can ignore it. The autumn atmosphere is captivating with soft sunshine and gentle winds passing over distant fields, carrying the fresh scent of young rice. Autumn, with its Mid-Autumn Festival, brings joy to children with lanterns, star-shaped lights, green sticky rice cakes, and mooncakes... Oh, how I love the August autumn! How I love the autumn of my homeland! ... Everything feels like a deep emotion rising within me as autumn arrives.
6. 'My Spring' by Vu Bang - Version 3
I. Author
- Vu Bang (1913 - 1984) was born in Hanoi, with his roots in Luong Ngoc village, Binh Giang district, Hai Duong province.
- He was a writer and journalist who wrote before the August 1945 Revolution, specializing in essays, memoirs, and short stories.
- After 1954, Vu Bang moved to Saigon, where he worked as a journalist, writer, and engaged in revolutionary activities.
- He was awarded the State Prize for Literature and Art in 2007.
- Some of his notable works include:
Memoirs: Miếng ngon Hà Nội (1960), Miếng lạ miền Nam (1969), Thương nhớ mười hai (1972)...
Novels: Lọ văn (satirical works, 1931), Một mình trong đêm tối (novel, 1937), Truyện hai người (novel, 1940), Tội ác và hối hận (novel, 1940)...
Short story collections: Quých và Quác (children's stories, 1941), Ba truyện mổ bụng (short story collection, 1941)...
II. Work
1. Origin
- The essay “Mùa xuân của tôi” is an excerpt from the essay collection “Tháng giêng mơ về trăng non rét ngọt” in the collection “Thương nhớ mười hai” by Vu Bang.
- The title of the work was assigned by the textbook compiler.
2. Context of Creation
- The work was written during a time when the country was divided, and the author was living under the control of the US-backed government in Saigon, far from his homeland.
- The writer expressed deep longing for his homeland and family, with a strong desire to return to his hometown once the country had reunified and peace was restored.
3. Structure
The text is divided into three parts:
- Part 1: From the beginning to “the one who is infatuated with spring”. The human emotion towards spring.
- Part 2: From there to “butterflies flutter and celebrate the festival”. The general scenery and atmosphere of spring.
- Part 3: The remainder. The spring scenery after the fifteenth day of the lunar new year.
III. Reading and Understanding the Text
1. Human emotions towards spring
- Everyone naturally loves spring as an instinct.
- By using a series of images: “who can prevent mountains from loving water, butterflies from loving flowers, the moon from loving the wind; who can stop young men from loving young women, mothers from loving their children, or a maiden from missing her lover?” the text affirms that the infatuation with spring is an undeniable and natural feeling within everyone, just as natural as the laws of life.
2. The general scenery and atmosphere of spring
- Weather: there is a light drizzle, with a chilly breeze.
- Sound: the cries of the swallows in the blue night, the sound of drums from distant villages, the hauntingly beautiful love songs sung by the girls.
- Family setting: peaceful reunion, with respect for elders, incense burning, and candles lit on the altar...
- Atmosphere: the revitalization of nature and humanity (the sap in people’s bodies rises like blood flowing in branches…)
=> Spring represents the essence of life.
3. The spring scenery after the fifteenth day of the lunar new year
- The Tet holiday has ended but not entirely, the peach blossoms are fading, but their fragrance still lingers.
- The grass no longer looks as green as it did during late December or early January, but it now carries a faint, nostalgic scent.
- The weather has cleared, with spring rains replacing the drizzle, and the sky is no longer cloudy, taking on a clearer, more radiant hue.
- People return to their simple, everyday meals.
- The festivities of Tet come to a temporary halt, making way for the regular rhythm of life.
=> The scenery and people return to their normal routine.
IV. Conclusion
- Content: The nature and atmosphere of spring in Hanoi and Northern Vietnam are vividly captured in the author’s longing for his hometown.
- Artistry: The work uses unique metaphors and literary techniques.
V. Answering Questions
Question 1. Where is the spring scenery and atmosphere described in the text? What is the context and mood of the author while writing this work?
- Context and mood of the author: The work was written when the author was living in Saigon before 1975, under the control of the US-backed government, far from his hometown, Hanoi.
- The mood of deep yearning for his homeland and family is expressed.
Question 2. How can the essay be divided? Summarize the main idea of each section and their connection.
The essay consists of three parts:
- Part 1: From the beginning to “Hating each other and the whole family.” The initial impressions of Saigon.
- Part 2: From there to “Today, it has risen to over five million.” The perception of the lifestyle and character of the people of Saigon.
- Part 3: The remainder. The author’s feelings towards Saigon.
Question 3. Read the passage from “I love the green river, purple mountains” to “celebrate the festival” and answer:
a. How is the spring scenery in Hanoi and Northern Vietnam depicted, and through which details?
b. How does spring awaken life in nature and humans? What emotions arise strongly in the author’s heart when spring arrives?
c. What is your opinion on the tone and language of this passage?
Suggestion:
a. The spring scenery of Hanoi and Northern Vietnam is depicted through:
- The natural scenery, the land, and sky:
Colors: The green river, purple mountains, enchanting with dreamy beauty.
Outlines: The light drizzle, the chilly wind, the roads are not muddy, and the sweet, gentle cold has replaced the harsh winter chill.
Sounds: The swallows’ calls in the blue night, the distant sound of drums, and the most striking feature is the beautiful love song of the girl, dreamy like poetry.
- The spring atmosphere with people:
Spring rituals: Incense burning, candles lit on the altar of Buddha, the altar of Saints, the altar of ancestors.
Family atmosphere: Peaceful reunions with mutual respect.
The human heart during spring: Feeling unusually warm and joyful, as if celebrating a grand festival.
b. Spring awakens life in nature and people through vivid comparisons:
- “It makes people feel like they’re going crazy. Sitting still is unbearable. The sap in the body rises like blood in the veins of deer, like the new buds of trees, and people can’t remain still, they must reach out with tiny leaves waving at the pairs of lovers standing nearby.”
- “The heart seems to grow younger, beating faster in these cold winter days.”
- “Longing for love. Outside, everyone wants to love, and at home, the feeling of love persists.”
* The author’s emotions: love, longing, and excitement for the arrival of spring.
c. The language is refined, and the tone is natural and vibrant.
Question 4. Read the passage from “So beautiful” to the end and answer:
a. How is the post-fifteenth lunar new year atmosphere and nature depicted in the author’s description?
b. How does the author show sensitivity and appreciation for nature in this depiction?
Suggestion:
a. The natural scenery after the fifteenth day of the lunar new year:
- Tet is over but not completely. The peach blossoms are slightly faded, but their fragrance still lingers.
- The grass is no longer as green as it was at the end of winter, but it now carries a faint, sweet fragrance.
- The sky is clear after the drizzle, and spring rains replace the mist, making the sky appear clearer and more vibrant.
- People return to their usual, modest meals.
- The Tet celebrations pause, giving way to the normal routine of life.
b. Through this depiction, the author demonstrates a refined soul and a keen eye for nature’s details, capturing its essence.
Question 5. Share your thoughts on the depiction of spring’s beauty through the author’s skilled and sensitive pen.
- A vivid landscape of nature, with distinct and dynamic spring features, is brought to life by the author’s pen.
- Moreover, the author evokes the warmth and intimacy of family reunions in this season of joy.
II. Practice
Question 1. Collect and write down some beautiful verses or passages about spring.
“Hurry up! The afternoon hasn’t set, I want to embrace All the life that’s just beginning to bud; I want to rush with the clouds and the wind, I want to dance with the butterflies and love, I want to capture it all in one kiss: the rivers, the trees, the flowers, the scents, the bright light, the lush green of spring;
(Hurry, Xuân Diệu)
“Every year when the peach blossoms bloom, I see the old calligrapher set up his red ink and paper on the crowded streets…”
(The Calligrapher, Vũ Đình Liên)
“I don’t wait, I don’t long for, Bring back spring to add to my sorrow! - To me, everything seems meaningless, All that’s left is sorrow!”
(Spring, Chế Lan Viên)
Question 2. Write a paragraph describing your feelings about a particular season in your hometown or current place of residence.
Among the four seasons, I love spring the most. It is the time when the trees awaken from the cold of winter. It is also when people eagerly prepare for the New Year. The most beautiful moment is when the spring rain falls, especially when it comes at the juncture of the old and new year. The chilly winter night sky is without stars, and there are no clouds. In the sacred moment of nature and the people’s hearts, the soft rain falls gently on the ground, making everyone feel joyful. The rain is light enough not to soak anyone, yet it carries the warmth of spring. After the spring rain, the world transforms into a completely new place.
