I. Interpretation
-Willow is a deciduous tree growing in humid environment, belonging to Salicaceae. It is characterized by many slender branches and weeping willow leaves.
Willow is often regarded as a symbol of flexibility, elegance and loneliness in literary works, paintings and garden design, and its image often appears in poems, stories and legends.
Second, the reference of "willow" in literary works.
-In the ancient literature of China, willows are often used to depict the scenery in spring, express the sadness of parting, and express homesickness. For example, there is a description of "seeing another village in the dark" in the song of bald heads, which vividly expresses the beauty and hope of spring.
Willow also plays an important role in English literature. The famous dramatist Shakespeare wrote in his work Hamlet: "Lend me your roaring willow tree decorated with holy snow." The willows here symbolize melancholy and death.
Thirdly, the background and symbolic significance of willow culture.
-In the traditional culture of China, willows are endowed with rich symbolic meanings. It symbolizes the continuation of life and the arrival of hope. The sight of catkins flying is often used to describe the feelings of parting and lovesickness. In western culture, willows are usually regarded as a symbol of softness, loneliness and sadness. It is associated with love, death and poetry and occupies an important position in literature and art.
Classification, Use and Legend of Willow
Classification and distribution of willow.
Willow belongs to Salicaceae, and there are many kinds. Common ones are Liu Jin, Bai Liu and weeping willow. Different kinds of willows have slightly different shapes and ecological habits. Willow is widely distributed all over the world, especially in temperate and cold regions. They are highly adaptable and can grow and reproduce in a humid environment.
2, the use of willow
Willow is light and soft, and is often used to make furniture, baskets and other handicrafts. The roots, branches and leaves of willow have medicinal value and are used to treat some diseases, such as fever, cough and arthritis. Young leaves of willow can be used as animal feed, and willow pollen is also an important honey source.
3. Culture and legends related to willow.
In the traditional culture of China, the willow is endowed with the symbolic meaning of "longevity". People often rest, get together and watch catkins under willows, pinning their yearning and blessings for a better life.
In Greek mythology, willow is closely related to Venus, the goddess of love. It is said that Venus once bathed under a willow tree.