“Wang Ning Mei”, or “Hope Betrayed”, is a famous Chinese literary work from the timeless masterpiece “A Dream of Red Mansions”, also known as “The Story of the Stone”. It is one of the 4 great classical novels of Chinese literature. It was written by Cao Xueqin during the mid-18th century in the Qing Dynasty. This literary masterpiece is considered one of the greatest achievements in Chinese literature and is renowned for its complexity, rich characterizations, and exploration of societal and moral issues.
The song “Wang Ning Mei” is a poignant musical composition that captures the essence of the complex relationships and emotional turmoil depicted in “A Dream of Red Mansions.” The title itself alludes to a sense of yearning, heartache, and the futility of certain emotions.
As a musical accompaniment to the literary work, “Wang Ning Mei” serves to evoke the melancholy and poetic atmosphere of the novel. The piece is often played on traditional Chinese instruments, such as the guzheng or pipa, adding a layer of cultural richness to its interpretation.
The emotive melodies and nuanced notes of “Wang Ning Mei” are designed to resonate with the themes of love, tragedy, and the transient nature of life that permeate “A Dream of Red Mansions.” It is a musical reflection of the intricate relationships and emotional landscapes painted by Cao Xueqin in his masterpiece.
Translated lyrics:
One was a flower from paradise, One a pure jade without spot or stain.
If each of the other one was not intended, then why in this life did they meet again?
And yet if fate had meant them for each other, why was their earthly meeting all in vain?
In vain were all his anxious fears: all, insubstantial, doomed to pass.
As moonlight mirrored in the water, or flowers reflected in a glass.
How many tears from those poor eyes could flow?
Which every season rained upon her woe?
Performers: Yixin Jiao
