World Famous Architecture Appreciation Issue 15 | Great Wall of China

Related Poetry “The sky is high and the clouds are thin, gazing at the southward flying geese. If you haven’t […]

Related Poetry

“The sky is high and the clouds are thin, gazing at the southward flying geese. If you haven’t reached the Great Wall, you’re not a true hero; count the journey of twenty thousand miles. On the high peaks of Liupan Mountain, the red flag flutters in the western wind. Today, with a long tether in hand, when shall I bind the azure dragon?” This verse, depicting the Great Wall, expresses the revolutionary spirit of the Red Army soldiers who boldly advance despite challenges.

— Mao Zedong, “Qingping Le: Liupan Mountain”

“Though the walls have witnessed the struggles of history, though the strongholds were captured and returned, countless passes have seen many joys and sorrows; you remain a cold building, squatting on the wild peaks, coldly observing the world’s grievances.” The poet uses lyrical language to reflect on the Great Wall and ponder the weight of history.