Spring Snow [Tang Poems]

— Han Yu

On vernal day no flowers were in bloom, alas!

In second moon I’m glad to see the budding grass.

But white snow dislikes the late coming vernal breeze,

It plays the parting flowers flying through the trees.

Note

Han Yu (768–824 CE) was one of the most influential literary figures of the Tang Dynasty, renowned not only as a poet but also as a prose master, philosopher, and staunch advocate of Confucianism. He led the Classical Prose Movement, which sought to replace ornate, flowery writing with clear, purposeful language rooted in ancient styles. Though best known for his essays, Han Yu also wrote poetry that combined intellectual depth with vivid imagery and subtle wit.

One of his most charming poems is “Spring Snow” (Chun Xue). In this short, playful piece, Han personifies snow as an impatient visitor who can’t wait for spring to fully arrive. Seeing early signs of the season – like budding grass and faint green willows – the snow “grows jealous” and flutters down like flying flowers to join the celebration. This whimsical twist transforms a late winter inconvenience into a poetic moment of seasonal transition, blending observation with imagination.
Unlike grand or solemn Tang poems, “Spring Snow” delights in lightness and surprise, revealing Han Yu’s versatility and his ability to find wonder in everyday natural phenomena.

春雪
— 韩愈

新年都未有芳华，

二月初惊见草芽。

白雪却嫌春色晚，

故穿庭树作飞花。