Poem: Farewell to Cambridge

Introduction
"Farewell to Cambridge" is a popular poem composed by the admired Chinese poet Xu Zhimo in 1928, reflecting his deep emotional attachment to Cambridge University throughout his research study period between 1921 and 1922. Born in Haining, China, in 1897, Xu later took a trip to the United States and Europe for education, eventually pursuing his enthusiasm for literature at King's College, Cambridge. The poem embodies the sense of yearning, freedom, love, and fond memories experienced by Xu during his remain in England and his ultimate departure.

Structure and Language
Provided as a lyric poem, "Farewell to Cambridge" is composed of 5 quatrains, each with an AABB rhyming plan. The poet's choice of words is reasonably easy and lacking intricate metaphors, enabling the reader to truly understand the emotions and beliefs conveyed. The poem's tone is both elegiac and romantic, depicting the tangible and intangible elements of the storied university and its surrounding natural landscape.

Styles and Imagery
Among the dominant themes of "Farewell to Cambridge" is the picturesque representation of Cambridge and its environment. The poem opens with a picture of the quiet river Cam, adorned with willow trees and fresh plant. The poet paints a pastoral view, representing a landscape filled with peace and appeal. This setting acts as a background to the poet's psychological story, making it an important element of his fond goodbye.

Another major style is the notion of departure and the discomfort related to leaving a valued place. The recurring phrase "goodbye" represents the poet's reluctance to say goodbye to Cambridge, as it has actually been an essential part of his development and self-discovery. Throughout the poem, he consistently laments the fact that he need to leave this sanctuary that has filled his heart with happiness and understanding.

Love and yearning are likewise central themes in "Farewell to Cambridge". The poem clarifies the poet's deep emotional connection to both the university and a specific female called "Xiaomei". In the 2nd verse, he explains the woman and the love he left at the university, symbolized by the "small bridge" and the "tender emotions" related to it. The poet's sensations of nostalgia and yearning are emphasized by the significance of the "golden willow" he touches while breathing the love-infused air.

A vital element of "Farewell to Cambridge" is the poet's expedition of his spiritual awakening and personal development. Xu's time in Cambridge allowed him to expand his intellectual horizons and contemplate considerable aspects of Eastern and Western viewpoint. He experienced a sense of enlightenment, allowing him to cherish the human spirit and natural world in an extensive method. By comparing his journey to a "journey of the soul", the poet acknowledges the significance of individual advancement and the emotional impact that particular places and experiences have on an individual's life.

Significance and Legacy
"Farewell to Cambridge" stands as one of the most influential and popular Chinese poems of the 20th century, resonating with many readers not only in China but around the world. The poem functions as a testament to the power of nostalgia, love, and the sense of belonging that can emerge from a particular place and time. As a result, it is often utilized as a teaching tool to exhibit the visual appeals and feelings typical in modern-day Chinese poetry.

In conclusion, "Farewell to Cambridge" is an expressive piece that catches the extreme feelings experienced by Xu Zhimo as he bids adios to the university that brought him enjoy, understanding, and self-awareness. The poem's vibrant imagery and lyrical charm have actually ensured its place as a timeless work, leaving an enduring mark on the field of Chinese literature.