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Tiān Guān Cì Fú Hanakotoba Analysis Part 2

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-> 4) Lotus/Water Lily

Despite having a few distinguishing characteristics, lotuses (Nelumbo nucifera) and water lilies (Nymphaea) are frequently mistaken for one another. As a result of this, their symbolic meanings frequently overlap to the point where they have the same connotations across certain cultures. Thus, for the duration of this post, I shall use both names interchangeably. In China, lotuses are known as lián huā (��花) or hé huā (荷花) while water lilies are known as shuìlián (睡莲) and héhuā (荷花). They are renowned as the gentleman's flower since they grow upwards pure and unstained from the mud. As a result of how it grows, this flower is associated with endurance, elegance, resilience, triumph over adversity and ultimate purity of mind and heart in China. The lotus is considered a sacred flower, embodying the essence of divine beauty and grace. It is also a symbol of moral integrity, emphasising the importance of maintaining inner purity and virtuous behaviour in the face of worldly temptations. In China, part of the lotus flower’s Chinese name “l蓮” (lián) is homophonous with the words “聯” (lián) meaning “to bind/connect as in marriage”; “戀” (liàn) meaning to love; and “廉” (lián) meaning modesty. This has resulted in the lotus flower symbolizing love, marriage and unions in Chinese culture. The lotus is thus a common motif in poetry, from the Tang and Song dynasties to contemporary works, and it is used to express love, convey feelings, and reflect on the state of humanity. A single stalk bearing two lotus flowers symbolises the yearning for harmony and a shared heart. This was derived from the fact that the “荷” (hé) in the lotus flower’s other Chinese name also means “union” and is homophonous with the word “和” (hé) meaning uninterrupted or one after another. In addition to this, a lotus bloom complete with a leaf and bud represents a complete union. Water lilies are often used in bridal bouquets because they are considered a lucky charm and symbol of 100 years of love in China. The word “l蓮” (lián) also sounds similar to “連續” (liánxù) which means continuous. This conveys the idea of constant growth and spiritual progress thus making the lotus a symbol of the continuous pursuit of knowledge, wisdom, and enlightenment. Lotus flowers symbolize purity, wisdom, peace, perfection, humility, enlightenment and rebirth in various Asian cultures because of their strong connection to Buddhism. The lotus is commonly used as a metaphor for the path to enlightenment in Buddhist literature. In the same way, as lotuses arise from the murky depths of ponds and lakes, pure and uncontaminated by the pollutants of their surroundings, so too are humans capable of rising above the obstacles and temptations of the outside world to achieve enlightenment and spiritual purity. The lotus is compared to the pure soul in South Asian Ismaili literature. There is a poem that highlights the beauty of the lotus, noting how its delicate white petals remain pure and attractive despite their murky surroundings. Similarly, a pure soul is both part of and not of this world, much like the lotus's surroundings. The lotus has deep symbolic meaning in Taoism, such as representing peace, balance, and the interaction of the natural and human worlds. It is a strong metaphor for the "interconnectedness of all things and the inherent harmony within the universe". The serene beauty of the lotus flower and its adaptability to many environments are representative of the Taoist concept of living in harmony with the natural order of things, flowing with life's rhythms, and maintaining balance in the face of change. In Taoist philosophy, the lotus is also connected to transcendence and immortality. Its enduring cycle of life, death, and rebirth is symbolised by its capacity to regenerate and blossom year after year in spite of the changing seasons. The lotus is a representation of transcendence and spiritual development that guides individuals towards a state of inner immortality and connection with the divine.

In Japan, lotuses are called ren (蓮) or hasu (はす) while water lilies are called suiren (睡蓮). In hanakotoba, lotuses symbolise eloquence, detached love, sacredness and a pure heart. They are also associated with rebirth, purity, transformation, renewal, spiritual enlightenment and resurrection as well as beauty, grace and perfection. In hanakotoba, water lilies symbolise a pure heart, faith and trust. In Western floriography, water lilies symbolize purity of the heart, virtue, innocence, achieving great things, beauty rising from humble beginnings and bringing together separate things. Pink waterlilies in particular are often associated with feelings of admiration. Since its scientific name was derived from the Greek nymph, water lilies while a symbol of beauty also has a dangerous side in addition to being a symbol of unity and balance. Lotuses can also symbolize estranged love as well as eloquence in floriography.

Despite a certain someone’s trials and attempts to corrupt Xie Lian in order to mould him into a perfect successor, the latter remained firm in his beliefs—"I just won’t change! Even if it’s painful I won’t change, Eve if I die, I won’t change, I will never change!” (MXTX, p. 1937). This ties in with the lotus flower’s symbolism of “rising above obstacles and temptations of the world to reach enlightenment and spiritual purity”, “triumph over adversity” and “maintaining balance in face of change” as well as “ultimate purity of mind and heart”. The lotus flower’s symbolic meanings of humility, virtue, resilience and constant growth complement Xie Lian’s character after his third ascension while its meanings of perfection, divine beauty, grace, and purity complement his character before and during his first ascension. The lotus flower’s symbolic meanings of perfection, virtue, divine beauty, grace, and purity complement his character before and during his first ascension while its meanings of humility, wisdom, resilience and constant growth complement Xie Lian’s character after his third ascension. The lotus is a highly revered flower in both Taoism and Buddhism, and both have served as inspiration for the basis of Tiān Guān Cì Fú’s complex setting and lore. The lotus flower’s symbol meanings of “transcendence and immortality”, “divine beauty and grace”, “unity and balance”, “the cycle of life, death and rebirth” as well as “rising above obstacles and temptations of the world to reach enlightenment and spiritual purity” are all recurring motifs in Tiān Guān Cì Fú. Additionally, the lotus’ symbolism of longstanding love and feelings of admiration tie into Hua Cheng and Xie Lian’s relationship. A single stem bearing two lotus flowers denotes a desire for harmony and a shared heart. To share someone’s heart is to completely understand, accept and support them. Xie Lian professes his desire to understand Hua Cheng—"I want to understand your everything" (MXTX, p. 943)—while Hua Cheng states at the end of the book, "I understand your everything. Your courage, your despair, your kindness, your pain, your resentment, your hate, your intelligence, your foolishness” (MXTX, p. 1953). Xie Lian is completely enamoured by Hua Cheng and wants to be someone he can confide in and rely on. While Hua Cheng not only adores Xie Lian but fully understands him and accepts every part of him. As a heavenly official and a supreme ghost king respectively, Xie Lian and Hua Cheng's union brings together the heavenly and ghost realms—which embodies the lotus' symbolism of unity, balance and bringing together separate things. Throughout various cultures, the water lilies and lotuses repeatedly symbolize gracefully overcoming adversity as well as embodying the essence of divine beauty and grace; because they grow pure and unstained by the mud in which they grow. This sentiment is reminiscent of one of the most famous quotes in Tiān Guān Cì Fú which was said by both Xie Lian and Hua Cheng—“The one standing in infinite glory is you; the one fallen from grace is also you. What matters is ‘you’ and not the state of you” (MXTX, p. 943 & 1438 & 1930).

-> 5) Autumn Ginkgo & Maple Trees

In the scene wherein Xie Lian meets “San Lang” for the first time, there are Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) and Maple trees (Acer) present in the background. Their vibrantly coloured leaves cascade onto the pair as they converse, creating a picturesquely autumnal setting. A ginkgo tree is also present in the scene where Xie Lian speaks to other heavenly officials via the communication array while maple trees are featured in many pieces of official artwork for the donghua.

5.1) Ginkgo

Ginkgo trees are known as yínxìng (銀杏 ) in China and are the country’s national tree. In Chinese culture, ginkgo trees are highly symbolic of longevity, endurance, resiliency, and hope. The ginkgo's symbolic meaning is said to be derived from the tree’s ability to survive under the harshest conditions as well as its long lifespan. When displayed as a single tree, it stands for strength and solitude. In Japan, ginkgo trees are called ginkyo (銀杏) and symbolise magnificence, longevity, requiem, strength, hope and peace in hanakotoba. In Western floriography, ginkgo trees symbolise solemnity, longevity and requiem. The beauty and symbolism of the ginkgo tree are valued by many European cultures, who associate it with power, resilience, human progress, enlightenment, and memory enhancement. The ginkgo tree also represents renewal as shows off a magnificent colour display each autumn as it sheds its leaves to sprout new ones. Even if he denies it—"Don’t think someone overly perfect... If it’s just watching a shadow from afar and never having to interact, then whatever. But once acquainted and grown close, you will find that this person was not what you had imagined; maybe the complete opposite. When that happens, you will be completely disappointed” (MXTX, p. 445)—Xie Lian embodies the qualities of hope, peace, strength, and resiliency. Hua Cheng, on the other hand, sees Xie Lian as the embodiment of hope—"You never know. I don't care if anyone else is disappointed. But to some, the very existence of a certain person in this world is in itself, hope” (MXTX, p. 445). Which encapsulates the symbolic meanings of the Ginkgo tree: strength, hope, resilience, peace, and perseverance.

5.2) Maple

“Looking up they were traversing through a maple grove, a sea of flaming red in a field of green. The rustic charm of the mountainous countryside, with fresh grass that refreshed the mind, was extremely intoxicating. But, Xie Lian could not help but give a slight start. A long time ago, in his youth, when he cultivated at the Royal Holy Pavilion, the entire mountain of maple was like this: shimmering like gold, intense like fire. The unforgettable sight before him now inevitably took him on a trip down memory lane” (MXTX, p. 117). Maple trees are known as fēngshù (楓樹) in China and primarily represent the passage of time and seasonal change. Furthermore, maple trees have traditionally been associated with abundance and positive energy in Chinese Feng Shui. These trees are thought to denote growth and prosperity. This is partly because red is considered an auspicious colour in China and is thought to bring good luck and happiness. Maple leaves and bark are also frequently used as materials in Taoist spells for drawing out courage, wealth and luck as well as for healing and attracting love. The maple tree is also a symbol of enduring love since it is frequently associated with loyalty and durability. Hence, maple leaves are connected to marriage and love in China. In Japan, maple trees are known as kaede (楓) and symbolize precious memories, restraint and beautiful change in hanakotoba. In addition to this, they also symbolize endurance, strength, resilience, transformation and change. The reason why maple trees are associated with change and transformation is because their leaves change colour with the seasons, morphing from green to yellow, orange, and red. This vibrant range of colors also represents the passing of the seasons, the changing nature of life as well as the beauty and fragility of life. In Japanese culture, the maple tree's five-lobed leaf is a representation of wealth and good fortune. Throughout various Asian cultures, maple trees are associated with persistence and stability, expression and passion, power and regality, endurance and strength as well as determination and resilience. In Western floriography, maple trees are associated with peace, serenity, reservedness, unity, humility, strength, endurance, balance, wisdom, and promise as well as seasonal change and new beginnings. The maple tree has also been utilised as a symbol of passion and desire in literature and art. Its vivid, crimson autumnal leaves represent the intensity of love, while its sturdy roots represent the deep bond between two individuals. While the tree's ability to endure adverse weather represents the tenacity and endurance required in romantic partnerships. Maple trees have been used as an enduring symbol of the transformational power of love in several literary and artistic works. Although roses and doves are more commonly linked with love, maple trees perfectly encapsulate the intense emotion and raw intensity of love. Red maple trees are one of Tiān Guān Cì Fú’s signature motifs because of their use during the scene where Xie Lian meets San Lang—“The cart was driving through the forest of flaming red maples, where maple leaves danced their way to the ground. A leaf playfully landed on the shoulder of the youth, and he blew it off softly, then looked up at Xie Lian, speaking with a shadow of a smile” (MXTX, p. 119). As a result, the use of maple trees in this scene greatly contributes to the romantic atmosphere. Hua Cheng's tremendous devotion to Xie Lian is foreshadowed by the maple tree's connotation of passionate, enduring love and devotion. Considering red is Hua Cheng's signature colour, having Xie Lian surrounded by a veritable sea of red sets the intimate cosy ambience needed for this scene.

-> 6) Red Spider Lily

The red spider lily (Lycoris radiata) is known as mànzhūshāhuá (曼珠沙華) or the bǐ'ànhuā (彼岸花) in China and is a symbol of autumn. The flower is also regarded as a symbol of both death and rebirth. Red spider lilies are described as flowers that grow in hell in the Lotus Sutra. As a result of this, certain Buddhist traditions in China and Japan believe that these flowers aid spirits in crossing from the afterlife into reincarnation. The red spider lily also represents beauty because of its vivid, vibrant red blossoms, which give a sense of elegance. In Chinese culture, the red spider lily has a long history and is commonly associated with death and funerals. It is considered bad luck in some parts of China to keep this plant in your home since it is thought to attract ghosts. The flower's sad symbolism for loss and parting is based on an ancient Chinese legend about two elves, Saka and Manju, who were the guardians of leaves and flowers, respectively. They could never meet, however, because the red spider lily never sprouts flowers and leaves at the same time. They both yearned to meet one another, and they violated the gods in order to do so. The gods punished them harshly for this and separated them for eternity. The flower is still associated with loss, both of loved ones and of memories. In Japan, these flowers are known as higanbana (彼岸花) which means autumn equinox flower. They represent sad memories, resignation, independence, lost memory, abandonment, passion and those who are never to meet again in Japanese hanakotoba. The red spider lily is also associated with death, goodbyes, rebirth and the far shore (land of the dead). The red spider lily's symbolic meaning of farewells and rebirth is embodied in classic Japanese artworks depicting mythological situations, where they are referred to as the "flowers of heaven.“ In Japan, there is a strong correlation between the Buddhist and Shinto religions and red spider lilies. These striking flowers are thought to represent rebirth and the transience of life. They are also believed to guide the deceased's spirits transition to the afterlife. They are frequently observed blossoming next to cemeteries or other holy locations. They are also thought to have protective properties that shield against negative energy and evil spirits. Red spider lilies are also thought to symbolise the boundary between life and death in Japanese culture. This is because its flowers bloom during autumnal equinox when Japanese Buddhists believe that deceased people's spirits return to the near shore (the world of the living). Some legends claim that when an individual crosses paths with someone they will never see again, red spider lilies blossom alongside their path. These legends are partly responsible for the flower's affinity with final goodbyes, in addition to its association with death and the hereafter. Despite their frequent association with death and parting, red spider lilies are also admired for their beauty and resilience. They can survive in a range of challenging environments, including rocky and riverside locations, and their vivid red hue helps them stand out against the surrounding scenery. As a result of this, these flowers can also be seen as a symbol of strength and perseverance in the face of adversity.

Red Spider Lilies greatly complement Hua Cheng as only only are they his signature colour but are also associated with death, rebirth, longing, parting, loss and passion which are all traits associated with him. Hua Cheng has effectively died three times and has come back three times which ties into the flower’s association with the transience of life, death and rebirth. Red spider lilies are also seen as a symbol of passion, strength and perseverance in the face of adversity which fits Hua Cheng’s character. In some official artwork such as the one shown above, red spider lilies are associated with Ghost City. This is fitting considering the red spider lilies symbolise the boundary between life and death whereas Ghost City is said to be “the most prosperous place within the ghost realm, situated right at the crossroads of the mortal and ghost realms” (MXTX, p. 287).

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╰┈➤ Part 1 ✿

╰┈➤ Anime Hanakotoba Posts Directory

[Forgive me if I missed anything; I attempted to include everything featured in the donghua, novel and official artwork. There was a lot I wanted to say, but I could not articulate it all as eloquently as I wanted to… I wanted to go all out for this while also keeping it as brief as possible… So, forgive me if this is just tons of gibberish. I always find that I can say and write a lot about the things I like but always find myself inadequate when speaking and writing about the things I truly love. Hopefully, I did this masterpiece justice.

If you liked this post, check out my other hanakotoba analysis posts... Also, if I've gotten any of the kanji, romaji, hanzi or pinyin incorrect, feel free to correct me]

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