Further Interpretations of Cao Cao's Poem "Duangexing"

Duangexing,Duijiudangge by Cao Cao,an imitation of Yuefu,is the most powerful poem in Jianan literature,not only in terms of the realm of ideology it reaches,but also in terms of its artistic achievements.The poem should have been created on a moon-lit night after attacking and occupying Xiangyang,when a feast was laid by the side of the Han River in the Ninth Month of the Thirteenth Year of Jianan.Cao Cao's poem,produced under the inspiration of the wine and songs presented for the occasion with reference to Shijing,was a caution to the poet himself and a counsel for other worthy gentlemen as well.In the poem the quotations from Zijin and Luming expressed Cao Cao's sincerity in his entertainment of his guests,his expectations of their instructions in his efforts to bring peace to the country,and his statement that he was determined to support the Royal House of Han,with absolutely no intention of usurping its throne,thus demonstrating fully Cao Cao's personality,learning,aspirations and ideal.The poem is characterized by its muscularity,depth,elegance and power.