Top 8 Best Essays Analyzing the Eastern A Spirit in Phạm Ngũ Lão's Poem 'Tỏ lòng' (Literature 10)

The history of Vietnam spans over four thousand years, with the process of nation-building closely tied to the defense of our land. Alongside the nation's history are the significant milestones of our ancestors' heroic feats in protecting the country. Whenever foreign invaders attacked, the whole nation rose up with a fierce resolve to fight back, exhibiting an indomitable and fierce spirit. This national spirit has been embedded in the glorious pages of history, giving birth to countless great victories. The Mongol invaders, who once threatened the world, were ultimately defeated by our people. Among the many glorious victories, the two monumental wars against the Mongol Empire stand out, epitomizing the Eastern A spirit. This heroic energy is clearly reflected in Phạm Ngũ Lão's poem 'Thuật hoài'.

When we think of the Lý and Trần dynasties, we recall the splendid and heroic victories that continue to illuminate history. Our ancestors triumphed twice over the Song dynasty and thwarted the Mongol Kublai Khan's invasion three times. The Eastern A spirit, a symbol of the Tran dynasty, represents this era's fierce national pride. According to Chinese character etymology, when you combine the characters for 'East' and the radical for 'A', it forms the character 'Trần', symbolizing the mighty Trần dynasty. This spirit, marked by the ambition to 'defeat the enemies', stands as a source of profound national pride. During times of war and invasions, when the nation was under threat, the people rose to take on the heavy responsibility of defending the land. A new wave of patriotic spirit emerged in them, driven by a deep hatred for the invaders and the heroic ideal to protect the homeland. This spirit, blending pride and rage, culminated in the roaring 'Eastern A' heroism, immortalized in Phạm Ngũ Lão’s four lines of poetry.

The national spirit we see is one of raw physical strength, exemplified by the soldiers and warriors of the time:

'Hoành sóc giang sơn kháp kỷ thu'

'Tam quân tì hổ khí thôn ngưu'

In these lines, we see the towering figure of a heroic warrior standing firm for the nation. The warrior appears within a vast and majestic landscape, symbolizing the grandeur of the entire homeland. The timeless image is depicted across endless seasons, where time feels boundless and without end. Despite the immense scope of space and time, the warrior stands tall, an image of strength. The poet has elevated the warrior to the level of myth, where he is no longer a mere mortal but an immortal force, a symbol of eternal power. The scene portrays not only physical strength but the indomitable will of the Tran soldiers, their energy akin to a storm, powerful enough to overpower a bull. These lines evoke the energy of the entire Tran dynasty's military strength and the profound 'Eastern A' spirit.

If the first two lines highlight the physical strength of the Tran warriors, the final two lines offer a deeper reflection on ideals and values:

'Nam nhi vị liễu công danh trái'

'Tu thính nhân gian thuyết Vũ Hầu'

These lines reflect the noble ideals of manhood, where one must contribute fully to the nation. This is an idea rooted in Confucian values, echoing the aspirations of figures like Nguyễn Công Trứ, who believed a man should leave a legacy for the land:

'Đã mang tiếng ở trong trời đất'

'Phải có danh gì với núi sông'

Just as Confucius’ disciples were taught to honor loyalty and filial piety, Phạm Ngũ Lão viewed his achievements as a lifelong debt to the country. His contributions to the defense of the nation during times of invasion and peace were unceasing, and his passing was mourned deeply by the Emperor. Yet, Phạm Ngũ Lão felt his service was insufficient compared to the exemplary deeds of figures like Vũ Hầu (Zhuge Liang), a model of virtue and dedication. This humility only serves to elevate his character, showing a desire to continually strive for excellence and honor. These two final lines carry profound philosophical reflections, showcasing a life of high ideals and deep, patriotic sentiment. The words are not just a reflection of personal values but a call to contribute to the greatness of the nation.

The four lines of poetry are compact but profoundly meaningful, encapsulating the essence of national pride, physical strength, and intellectual ideals. The Eastern A spirit flows through every word, embodying both the strength and the intellect of the Vietnamese people. This spirit, born from a deep love of country, transcended the Lý-Trần era and continues to echo in the history of our nation. By reading these lines, we are reminded of our glorious past, and we are inspired to preserve and honor this legacy. The spirit of the Trần dynasty has long since passed, but its echoes resonate through the pages of history, urging us to continue building upon this proud heritage. We, as the generations that follow, must continue to preserve our nation's history and be proud of our achievements. We must strive to cultivate our bodies, minds, and hearts to become useful citizens, contributing to the prosperity and development of our homeland. Only then can we truly honor the glorious traditions of our ancestors and embody the Eastern A spirit that Phạm Ngũ Lão so dearly cherished. His image is a symbol of the ideal man, a role model for us to follow.

Phạm Ngũ Lão's 'Thuật hoài' is like a sacred flame, a fire that burns with the intensity of the Eastern A spirit. The poet's heart, like that of every patriotic scholar, aligns with the collective power of the nation. This unity between the individual and the nation creates an unbreakable force capable of vanquishing invaders and bringing peace to the land. This is the longing of Phạm Ngũ Lão – a heart full of love and bravery, a true hero of his time.

Phạm Ngũ Lão was born in the culturally rich land of Hưng Yên, where the love for knowledge and patriotism was nurtured. From a young age, he was known for his upright character, and as he grew, he dedicated himself to serving the Trần dynasty, striving to protect the borders of the nation. A distinguished scholar and a skilled military strategist, Phạm Ngũ Lão's heart was always burdened with the thought that he had not done enough for his country. This sentiment is clearly conveyed in his poem, 'Tỏ lòng' (Expressing Feelings):

'Hoành sóc giang sơn cáp kỷ thu'

'Tam quân tỳ hổ khí thôn Ngưu.'

'Nam nhi vị liễu công danh trái,'

'Tu thính nhân gian thuyết Vũ hầu'

'Tỏ lòng,' or 'Thuật hoài,' by Phạm Ngũ Lão, revives and highlights the glorious era of the Eastern A spirit. This spirit comes to life in the valor and strength of the Trần dynasty's military:

'Hoành sóc giang san cáp kỷ thu'

'Tam quân tỳ hổ khí thôn Ngưu'

('The spear swings across the land for several autumns,

Our army’s strength devours even a giant bull.')

Before the reader's eyes, the army is seen 'hoành sóc' (swinging spears), training relentlessly. The spear, expertly wielded, becomes an art form, embodying the strength and majesty of the 'Sát Thát' army, who stand as firm as 'the heavens above and the earth below.' The use of 'hoành' (horizontal) combined with 'giang san' (the homeland) and 'kỷ thu' (several autumns) makes the army seem divine, their strength eternal and their reach beyond time and space.

No enemy can stand against the fierce power of this army, as strong as a tiger capable of devouring a massive bull. Phạm Ngũ Lão subtly compares the forces of the Trần army with the enemy’s. Our forces may not be the largest, but our strength and military tactics are unmatched. The bull is symbolic of the enemy—large but lacking in agility and wit. Phạm Ngũ Lão declares that no matter how many soldiers or advanced the enemy’s weapons are, they will never defeat the might of the Trần army.

The next two lines express the poet’s personal feelings:

'Nam nhi vị liễu công danh trái,'

'Tu thính nhân gian thuyết Vũ hầu'

('The achievements of a man are his debt to the kingdom,

And he feels shame when hearing of Vũ Hầu’s feats.')

The phrase 'nam nhi' brings to mind the common aspiration of a man:

'A man should live with honor,

Ensuring his life aligns with the highest ideals.'

If folk poetry uses the idea of a man’s duty to criticize the lazy and unaccomplished, Phạm Ngũ Lão uses the same notion to express his personal shame. Though he had achieved much and earned a place in history, Phạm Ngũ Lão could never be content with his contributions. He mentions Vũ Hầu, or Zhuge Liang, a brilliant statesman and strategist who helped establish the Shu Han state in ancient China. Phạm Ngũ Lão feels inferior, believing he has not served the Trần dynasty as effectively as Vũ Hầu did for the Shu kingdom. This humility only underscores his great talent and dedication.

'Tỏ lòng' by Phạm Ngũ Lão is written in the seven-character quatrain form, embodying both the grandeur of epic poetry and a deep sense of introspection. The poem not only showcases artistic creativity with its expressive language and dynamic tone but also holds historical value, recording the powerful Eastern A spirit of a mighty era in Vietnam’s history. Through this poem, we can better appreciate Phạm Ngũ Lão’s literary style, his exceptional abilities, and his noble character.

The Trần dynasty (1126-1400) stands as a shining milestone in Vietnam's 4000-year history of nation-building and defense. With three victorious wars against the Mongol invaders, the Trần dynasty immortalized its military successes at Chương Dương, Hàm Tử, and Bạch Đằng in the history of Đại Việt.

The heroic, bold spirit of the Trần people and their generals has been immortalized by historians as the "Eastern A Spirit". The literature of the Trần dynasty echoes with the voices of national heroes, driven by fervent patriotism. Works like Trần Quốc Toản's 'Hịch tướng sĩ', Phạm Ngũ Lão's 'Tỏ lòng', and Trương Hán Siêu's 'Bạch Đằng giang phú' are masterpieces that overflow with love for the country and national pride.

Phạm Ngũ Lão (1255-1320) was a celebrated general of the Trần dynasty, victorious in every battle he fought. Only two of his literary works remain: 'Tỏ lòng' and 'Vãn Thượng tướng Quốc công Hưng Đạo Đại vương.'

'Tỏ lòng' expresses the pride and military ambition of the hero during a time when the nation is under threat. It is a self-portrait of the great general, Phạm Ngũ Lão.

'Hoành sóc giang san kháp kỉ thu'

'Tam quân tỳ hổ khí thôn ngưu'

'Nam nhi vị liễu công danh trái'

'Tu thính nhân gian thuyết Vũ Hầu.'

The posture of holding a spear horizontally (hoành sóc) symbolizes a fearless and mighty warrior ready for battle. The line 'Hoành sóc giang san kháp kỉ thu' evokes a magnificent and grand image, combining both the spatial domain (giang san) and the vast expanse of time (kháp kỉ thu). It portrays a soldier stepping into battle with heroic confidence, like the legendary warriors of the past. The nationalistic fervor is encapsulated in this ancient, solemn verse: holding the spear horizontally, marching through several autumns to protect the cherished land.

The 'Sát Thát' army, with its overwhelming numbers (three armies), advanced with extraordinary strength, as fierce as tigers ('tỳ hổ'), determined to crush all invading enemies. The force of this army surged forward, unstoppable by any opposition. 'Khí thôn Ngưu' represents a boundless, unstoppable energy, one that could devour even the starry Bull in the sky. It may also be interpreted as the immense strength of the three armies, capable of swallowing a buffalo. This creative exaggeration constructs an image of cosmic grandeur: 'Tam quân tỳ hổ khí thôn Ngưu.' The metaphor 'Tam quân tỳ hổ...' in Phạm Ngũ Lão's poetry is unique, not only portraying the overwhelming might of the 'Sát Thát' army but also inspiring countless works in national literature:

'Thousands of ships and boats,

Flags fluttering in the wind,

The three armies, fierce as tigers, with shining spears and swords...'

(Bạch Đằng giang phú)

The warrior of the 'bình Nguyên' era carries with him an intense desire: the ambition to win military glory and repay his king and country. In an age of heroes, only heroes could aspire to such greatness! 'Defeat the powerful enemies, repay the royal grace' (Trần Quốc Toản) – 'My head will not fall, Your Majesty, do not worry' (Trần Thủ Độ). 'Even if my body lies in the open field and my flesh is wrapped in the skin of a horse, I will be content' (Trần Quốc Tuấn). This ambition reflects the vibrant hearts of the generals, as the aristocracy of the Trần dynasty carried the great burden of history. They dreamed of and took pride in their heroic deeds, comparing themselves to the legendary strategist Zhuge Liang of the Three Kingdoms period. The final lines of the poem invoke a reference to Zhuge Liang (Vũ Hầu), speaking to the duty of a man during chaotic, war-torn times:

'A man’s honor is still owed to the nation,

And he feels shame when hearing the story of Vũ Hầu.'

The 'Công danh' referenced by Phạm Ngũ Lão is the honor earned through blood, strategy, and valor. It is not the shallow 'honor' of individual heroism, but one forged by sacrifice and courage. This debt of honor weighs heavily on the man, but he is willing to repay it with his own blood and bravery. Not only do the warriors feel 'shamed by hearing about Vũ Hầu,' but they also study military texts, practice archery and horseback riding, and prepare for battle. Their ultimate goal is to ensure that Đại Việt endures for eternity: 'May the mountains and rivers stand strong for generations' (Trần Nhân Tông).

'Tỏ lòng' is written in the seven-character quatrain form, delivering a powerful, forceful tone. The language is compact, the imagery grand and magnificent, and the voice resounds with heroic pride and solemnity. It will forever remain an anthem of the Trần dynasty’s generals, glowing with the 'Eastern A Spirit.'

Phạm Ngũ Lão was a man of exceptional talent, deeply patriotic, with remarkable courage. He was not only a gifted general but also a man with a poetic soul. His most famous work, the poem 'Tỏ lòng', reflects the thoughts and emotions of this brilliant strategist while vividly portraying the fervent and heroic spirit of the Trần dynasty era.

'Hoành sóc giang sơn kháp kỉ thu'

'Tam quân tì hổ khí thôn ngưu'

The first two lines depict the image of a brave warrior from the Trần dynasty, holding his spear high in a proud and fierce stance. This posture is active and dominant, contrary to the common misinterpretation as a mere 'sword dance'. The term 'cầm ngang ngọn giáo' emphasizes strength and readiness, symbolizing a hero’s unwavering resolve. The vast setting described by 'giang sơn' (the country) makes the hero seem small against the vastness of the universe, but paradoxically, it highlights the hero’s grand role in commanding the land, embodying both the spirit and the will to defend the nation's borders. The duration of the 'mấy thu' (several autumns) further underlines the enduring determination of the warrior, showing his tireless commitment to protecting his homeland. These lines not only depict the grandeur of the soldier but also convey his deep patriotic passion.

The second line powerfully illustrates the strength of the Trần army, using vivid metaphors like 'tam quân' (the three armies), 'tì hổ' (tiger-like strength), and 'khí thôn ngưu' (a force capable of devouring a bull) to express the might of the military. 'Tam quân' refers to the three main divisions of the army: the vanguard, the central force, and the rear guard. The image of 'tì hổ' compares the army's strength to that of fierce tigers, while 'khí thôn ngưu' can be interpreted as the energy that can overpower both the bull and the stars in the sky. These metaphors bring to life the incredible might of the Trần soldiers, emphasizing their power and readiness to fight. These lines vividly capture the unstoppable force and fierce determination of the Trần dynasty’s military.

The final two lines, however, take a more introspective tone, filled with reflection and humility:

'Nam nhi vị liễu công danh trái'

'Tu thính nhân gian thuyết Vũ Hầu.'

In these lines, Phạm Ngũ Lão reflects on the responsibilities and expectations placed on a man. The phrase 'nam nhi vị liễu công danh trái' speaks to the traditional expectation for a man to prove his worth through achievements. The notion of 'nam nhi' (a man) reflects the high standards of honor and duty assigned to men in traditional society. Phạm Ngũ Lão expresses his awareness of his own shortcomings, feeling he has yet to fulfill his duty and leave a mark of greatness on his nation. The feeling of shame when thinking of Zhuge Liang (Vũ Hầu) shows his humble acknowledgment of his own limitations and his yearning to live up to the legacy of great men. This humility combined with ambition reveals the inner conflict of the character, aspiring for greater deeds and striving for national glory.

This poem is written in the seven-character quatrain form, a style known for its conciseness and depth. The carefully chosen metaphors and comparisons evoke deep emotional responses and reveal the inner thoughts of the poet. The poem embodies the heroic spirit of the Trần era while also celebrating the integrity and aspirations of its people.

Ultimately, the poem reveals the noble character of Phạm Ngũ Lão and the extraordinary strength of the Trần military. Through these verses, we gain insight into the moral fiber and unyielding ambition of a great general, driven by love for his country and the desire to leave a lasting legacy.

Phạm Ngũ Lão (1255-1320) was a legendary general during the Trần Dynasty, undefeated in countless battles and known for his excellence in both military strategy and literary skill. He played a pivotal role in assisting Đại Vương Hưng Đạo, securing numerous victories and defending the nation’s sovereignty from invaders. His legacy is not solely as a military hero but also as a poet. His poem 'Tỏ lòng' (Expressing Feelings) is a testament to his patriotic ideals and the heroic spirit of the Trần warriors.

Written in a seven-syllable quatrain, this brief yet powerful poem encapsulates Phạm Ngũ Lão’s profound love for his homeland, his unwavering loyalty to the king, and his heroic values. Despite its short length, the poem conveys the thoughts of a man of great integrity and courage, a hero who sees himself as part of something much larger, someone who upholds the ideals of a true warrior. His writing also mirrors the nationalistic spirit and the values of the loyal generals who fought to protect their country.

The first two lines of the poem portray the Trần soldiers' courage and unity in the face of adversity:

“Hoành sóc giang san kháp kỉ thu”

“Tam quân tì hổ khí thôn ngưu”

(With a spear raised high, the land endures through many autumns

The three armies, fierce as tigers, swallow their enemies whole)

In these lines, the image of warriors holding their spears high symbolizes their courage and readiness to defend their land at any cost. The phrase 'hoành sóc' (holding the spear horizontally) reflects their steadfastness and strength, which is much more than a simple 'dancing with a spear' as some translations suggest. The Trần soldiers, though fewer in number, were driven by an unshakable will to fight for their homeland, a resolve that made them formidable against the Mongol invaders, despite the difference in military strength.

The image of the spear, coupled with the vastness of the land and the passing of time, evokes the enduring legacy of the Trần warriors and their commitment to the nation. Their strength lay not in sheer numbers, but in their unwavering spirit, making them an unstoppable force. Through the imagery of the spear, Phạm Ngũ Lão’s poem also reflects the larger history of his people, their struggles, and their victories in the face of overwhelming odds.

The second half of the poem delves into Phạm Ngũ Lão’s personal reflections on manhood and duty:

“Nam nhi vị liễu công danh trái”

“Tu thính nhân gian thuyết Vũ Hầu”

(A man’s destiny is to serve his country, and his name must endure

He feels shame when hearing the tales of Vũ Hầu)

Phạm Ngũ Lão’s words reflect a deep sense of duty, believing that a true man must leave behind a legacy for the country. This idea was not unique to him but shared by many noble men of the time, including figures like Nguyễn Công Trứ. Even as a loyal general who risked his life in battle, Phạm Ngũ Lão felt that he had yet to fulfill his duty. He regarded his achievements as incomplete, and thus, he humbly felt ashamed when hearing stories of the great Vũ Hầu (Gia Cát Lượng), a figure renowned for his wisdom and service.

Phạm Ngũ Lão compares himself to Vũ Hầu not out of a sense of self-doubt, but as a demonstration of his humility and his desire to learn from those who served their masters with greater distinction. While both he and Vũ Hầu supported leaders greater than themselves, Phạm Ngũ Lão felt that, despite his service, he had not yet made the same level of contribution to his king, Đại Vương Hưng Đạo, and thus felt a deep sense of personal debt.

This comparison is not an expression of inadequacy but a reflection of Phạm Ngũ Lão’s commitment to constantly improving and fulfilling his duty. He shows the depth of his loyalty and dedication to Hưng Đạo Đại Vương, humbly acknowledging that there is always more to be done. His personal background, humble as it may have been, did not limit his intellect or strength, which were admired by those who recognized his worth.

In the end, Phạm Ngũ Lão’s poem reveals a character both heroic and humble. He was a general who, though proud of his service, recognized that there was always more to be done for his country. Through his poetry, he not only expressed his personal values but also highlighted the unyielding spirit of the Trần warriors. Phạm Ngũ Lão’s legacy is one of honor, duty, and a deep love for his nation, qualities that continue to inspire to this day.

Did you know that every piece of writing is overshadowed by the era in which it was created? Literature and the reality of life are always intertwined in a deep connection. This can be particularly felt in Pham Ngu Lao’s poem “Thuật Hoài,” believed to have been written in 1284, a time when the second Mongol invasion was imminent. Through this work, we can sense the lingering spirit of the heroic Eastern A Dynasty, emanating from every line of the poem.

First, we need to understand what 'Eastern A' means. It refers to the character 'Trần' in Chinese, which is composed of the 'A' radical and the character for 'East.' The heroic spirit of Eastern A embodies the bold fighting spirit of the Trần dynasty, and the Vietnamese people from the 10th to the 15th centuries, driven by the strength of self-reliance, self-strengthening, and the will to fight and win against any invader. The Eastern A spirit can be seen as the monumental spiritual product of that glorious era. The poem “Thuật Hoài” beautifully captures this spirit with its grandeur, nobility, and the warrior’s desire to achieve greatness.

To begin with, we can feel the heroic Eastern A spirit radiating from the poet’s celebration of the strength and beauty of the people of the Trần dynasty. This era was truly one that would be made great by the heroism of its people. In the mind of the general, we can see a majestic image of the warrior spirit during a time of war. This powerful image is captured in the posture of the figure, standing tall within the vast and majestic space of history.

“Hoành sóc giang sơn kháp kỉ thu”

With just this first line, we can feel the poem’s focus on the warrior’s beauty, standing firm with his spear across the land, enduring for many autumns. In the translation of the poem, the word “hoành sóc” has been rendered as “múa giáo,” implying movement or performance, which somewhat loses the firmness of the original term. In its true sense, “hoành sóc” refers to holding the spear horizontally, embodying a static yet bold and upright posture, a stance ready for battle. This is a position of active readiness to face any challenges that war may bring. The phrase “hoành sóc” presents a strong and unyielding image of the soldier, prepared to fight for the nation’s defense.

From this, we can also perceive how this posture, placed within the vast land of “giang sơn,” and enduring through the long stretch of time “kháp kỉ thu,” paints a picture of the warrior’s enduring spirit. The imagery of space and time highlights the soldier’s steadfastness, resilience, and his unwavering loyalty to the country. Through the powerful rhythm and epic style of his writing, Pham Ngu Lao recreates the heroic beauty of the Trần dynasty’s warriors.

The heroic spirit of this era, defined by the determination to fight and win, is vividly expressed in the next line:

“Tam quân tì hổ khí thôn ngưu”

In this line, we move from the individual heroism of the first line to the collective might of the army. “Tam quân” refers to the vanguard, main force, and rear guard, symbolizing the entire Trần army. Pham Ngu Lao cleverly uses a metaphor, comparing the Trần soldiers’ strength to that of tigers, known for their ferocity. The phrase “tam quân tì hổ” conveys the extraordinary power and fierce energy of the entire army. The second half of the line speaks to the overwhelming spirit of the army as they march to battle. The expression “khí thôn ngưu” can be interpreted in two ways. One interpretation suggests the army’s power is so immense that it could swallow even a buffalo, a metaphor for the youthful, heroic spirit of the Trần soldiers. Another interpretation links “ngưu” to a star, meaning the army’s energy could overpower even the celestial stars. Both interpretations highlight the monumental power and heroic energy of the Trần army, capable of confronting and defeating a ruthless invader like the Mongols. This strength is the result of their unity and the indomitable spirit of the Eastern A dynasty.

The Eastern A spirit is not only displayed in the fervor of battle but also in the subtle and profound thoughts of the warriors. It is expressed through their aspiration to earn honor for their country during times of war. Their pursuit of glory symbolizes the great ambition and noble heart of the warrior:

“Nam nhi vị liễu công danh trái

Tu thính nhân gian thuyết Vũ Hầu”

The notion of striving for glory is rooted in the warrior’s positive and determined mindset. This spirit serves as motivation for the warriors to fight and achieve victory. The poem also reveals the heart of the hero through the feeling of shame when comparing himself to the great Vũ Hầu. The Eastern A spirit is thus not only reflected in the love for the country and the hatred for invaders but also in the inner reflections of the talented general.

Through the Eastern A spirit, we see the rise of an era with glorious achievements that will be remembered throughout history. The Eastern A spirit is not just present in the words of a poet but in the collective consciousness of an entire era, inspiring future generations to live up to the legacy of their ancestors.

In conclusion, Pham Ngu Lao’s poem “Thuật Hoài” embodies the Eastern A spirit through its grand and sweeping style. The use of imagery, rhythmic strength, and epic quality in his writing beautifully captures the heroic vision of the Trần dynasty, a vision that still resonates with us today.

Throughout the history of our nation, the Trần dynasty stands as one of the most flourishing periods. The achievements made by the Trần people in various fields such as culture, politics, military, economy, and religion are undeniable. When speaking of the Trần dynasty, one cannot help but think of the heroic spirit of Eastern A. This spirit is not only recognized in historical accounts but also echoed through the poem “Tỏ lòng” by the talented general Phạm Ngũ Lão. In this poem, the poet also wishes to express his own sense of 'shame'.

So, what exactly is the Eastern A spirit? While many are familiar with the term 'Eastern A', few truly understand its meaning. The term has two interpretations. The first refers to the character ‘Đông’ and ‘A’ that together represent the Trần dynasty itself. However, there’s a deeper meaning behind it. As we know, the Trần era was one of unity, with people from the king to the commoners, from the military to the citizens, all standing together. The Eastern A spirit represents the resolute will of the Trần dynasty, showing a collective strength that defied foreign invaders, leading them to victory over the Mongol forces three times.

The poem “Thuật hoài” vividly embodies this Eastern A spirit. The first two lines clearly illustrate this point:

“Hoành sóc giang sơn kháp kỉ thu

Tam quân tì hổ khí thôn Ngưu”

“With the spear across the land for many autumns

Three armies’ strength powerful enough to swallow a buffalo”

“Hoành sóc giang sơn” refers to holding the spear horizontally to protect the land. The Trần dynasty had to face the most formidable and dangerous enemy of the time—the Mongol invaders, notorious for their brutal tactics and vast cavalry that trampled over any land they entered. Despite the Mongols’ overwhelming might, the people of the Trần dynasty stood fearless, united in defending their homeland. The spear, a symbol of the noble warriors of the Trần period, embodied the width and strength of the nation. The mission of the Trần people was to safeguard their land, and they never faltered when facing these perilous invaders.

This line expresses the unwavering determination to protect the country from foreign threats, with the Trần warriors fully aware of their duty to the nation. The army, unified in spirit, was as fierce as tigers, their might surpassing even the stars. Their power was so overwhelming that they could metaphorically swallow a whole buffalo. These lines showcase the heroic spirit and indomitable will of the Trần army, clearly reflecting the essence of the Eastern A spirit.

If the first two lines portray the heroic energy of the Trần era, the last two lines reveal the poet’s personal feeling of 'shame':

“Nam nhi vị liễu công danh trái

Tu thính nhân gian thuyết Vũ Hầu”

“A man must fulfill his duty to the country

And feel humbled upon hearing of Vũ Hầu’s achievements”

In the past, it was believed that every man must leave a legacy—one that contributes to the nation and is remembered by history. A true man of honor must have achievements worthy of his land, contributing to the country’s prosperity. Though Phạm Ngũ Lão was a renowned general who fought valiantly against the Mongols, he remained humble about his own accomplishments. He felt 'shamed' when he heard of the feats of Vũ Hầu, another servant of the state who had achieved greater deeds. Despite Phạm Ngũ Lão’s own monumental contributions, he felt that he had not yet done enough to earn his rightful place in history.

This shows us the Eastern A spirit of the Trần era and the humility of a devoted general, one who gave everything for the king and the nation. The Eastern A spirit is the driving force behind the three great victories over the Mongol invaders. It also reveals the noble heart of Phạm Ngũ Lão, who, despite his many victories, always felt that he had yet to fully fulfill his duties to the country and the king.

In conclusion, the Eastern A spirit is a core element that helped the Trần dynasty achieve their remarkable victories. Through this poem, we witness the great spirit of a soldier, who, despite his fame and accomplishments, always sought to do more for his country.

Phạm Ngũ Lão was a legendary general of the Trần dynasty. Though he came from a commoner's background, his great ambition and talents quickly earned him a position as the trusted deputy to Hưng Đạo Vương Trần Quốc Tuấn. During the Mongol-Yuan invasions, Phạm Ngũ Lão, along with other notable figures of the time, achieved great victories and played a key role in building the legendary 'Hào khí Đông A' spirit of the era.

Although his literary works are few, his poem 'Thuật hoài' (Expressing Feelings) remains widely admired, as it articulates the intense aspirations of young men in feudal society: a true man must fulfill the debt of fame and service to his country, which means fully realizing the ideals of loyalty and patriotism.

Hoành sóc giang sơn kháp kỉ thu

Tam quân tì hổ khí thôn ngưu

Nam nhi vị liễu công danh trái

Tu thính nhân gian thuyết Vũ hầu

Vietnamese translation of the poem:

Múa giáo non sông trải mấy thu

Ba quân khí mạnh nuốt trôi trâu

Công danh nam tử còn vương nợ

Luống thẹn tai nghe chuyện Vũ hầu.

This poem was written during a unique and historical moment for the country. The Trần dynasty (1226–1400) was renowned for its glorious military victories, including driving back the Mongol invaders multiple times and maintaining the nation's sovereignty, while also embodying the indomitable spirit of the Vietnamese people.

Born and raised in this era, Phạm Ngũ Lão deeply internalized the love for his country, a sense of national pride, and, most importantly, the Confucian ideal of loyalty and patriotism. He fully recognized his civic duty in shaping the destiny of his country: 'The rise or fall of the nation is the responsibility of every man.'

The poem 'Thuật hoài' is written in Classical Chinese, following the strict structure of the Tang dynasty’s quatrain form, and it features profound, condensed meanings with vivid, grand imagery and a heroic, exhilarating tone. The first two lines depict the bold, strong, and vibrant young men—warriors ready to sacrifice for the nation, reflecting the soaring spirit of 'Hào khí Đông A' during the Trần dynasty.

Hoành sóc giang sơn kháp kỉ thu

(Meaning: Holding a spear horizontally to protect the country for many years;

Translation: Wielding the spear, defending the land through the years.)

In comparison to the original Classical Chinese, the translation does not fully capture the grandeur and commanding presence of the soldier in action, defending the homeland. The phrase 'Hoành sóc' refers to holding the spear horizontally, always in a posture of attack, ready to overwhelm the enemy. This posture symbolizes righteousness and strength, representing the unyielding Vietnamese spirit that no enemy could ever conquer. The phrase 'giang sơn kháp kỉ thu' refers to the long duration of this steadfastness, evoking the lasting struggle to protect the nation. This is a central image, symbolizing the indomitable Vietnamese nation, one that will never bow to invaders.

The second line: 'Tam quân tì hổ khí thôn Ngưu.'

(Meaning: The morale of the three armies is as powerful as tigers, overshadowing even the stars in the sky. Translation: The three armies' mighty spirit eclipses the stars of the sky.), emphasizes the unstoppable strength and willpower of the people. 'Tam quân tì hổ' is an artistic metaphor that highlights the invincible power of the army, while 'khí thôn Ngưu' exaggerates the sense of strength, creating a cosmic-level poetic image.

These two short lines convey a stunning image of the courageous soldiers of the Trần dynasty, fighting with unwavering determination, leaving a lasting impression of heroism.

As a member of this heroic army, Phạm Ngũ Lão rose from a skilled warrior to a renowned general at a young age. Throughout his life, he was driven by an intense desire for fame and recognition, especially during a time of chaos. The positive aspect of this ambition was his strong desire to serve the king and country through battle. Like other intellectuals of the time, Phạm Ngũ Lão revered the ideals of loyalty and patriotism and believed: 'A man must earn his name with the mountains and rivers' (Chí làm trai - Nguyễn Công Trứ). Therefore, he felt a deep sense of shame if he had not yet fulfilled his obligations and earned his fame.

'Nam nhi vị liễu công danh trái'

'Tu thính nhân gian thuyết Vũ hầu'

(The man still owes the debt of fame

And feels ashamed to hear the story of Vũ Hầu.)

Vũ Hầu refers to Zhuge Liang, a brilliant strategist during the Three Kingdoms period of China. Due to his wisdom, Zhuge Liang achieved great victories and was highly trusted by his lord, Liu Bei.

By comparing himself to these historical figures, Phạm Ngũ Lão demonstrated a sense of pride and self-respect, pushing himself to excel and match the achievements of others. He was a close aide to Hưng Đạo Đại Vương Trần Quốc Tuấn, constantly by his side in battle, leading by example, and using all his skills and intellect to devise brilliant strategies that drove the invaders out. Phạm Ngũ Lão saw the fight against the enemy as an ongoing duty until every threat was eradicated, and only then would his personal debt to his country be paid.

The last two lines of the poem shift in tone from the earlier heroic spirit to a more introspective and poignant mood. The grand, heroic emotion turns into a deep, reflective sentiment as the speaker contemplates his own sense of duty.

Phạm Ngũ Lão was a brilliant military commander, but he also possessed the sensitive heart of a poet. 'Thuật hoài' is a lyrical poem that expresses the great ambitions and ideals of the youth of the time. The poem has a profound educational impact, offering insights into a positive worldview and lifestyle that can inspire young people of all generations. In this way, 'Thuật hoài' immortalized the young, talented general Phạm Ngũ Lão, who excelled both in literature and in warfare.