Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: opera
Song Meaning of “The True and False Pan Jinlian (Si Wu Hua Dong)” by Mei Lanfang
This haunting song was composed by the legendary Chinese artist Mei Lanfang in response to the classic Chinese story of Pan Jinlian, an iconic example of female emancipation and revolution in Chinese history.The ruminations of the lyrics and the romantic harmonies paint a vivid portrait of Jilin’s struggle to escape the confines of societal constraints, while also honoring her courage and resilience in her pursuit of freedom and true love.
The song speaks to the hardships that Pan Jilin was forced to endure in order to find her way to true happiness, cut off from the restraints of traditional expectations, societal norms, and her family’s disapproval. Despite all the obstacles that she faced, the song paints her as a brave and determined woman, willing to endure the trials of her journey and ultimately succeed.
The somber melodies, paired with the uplifting words, express the difficult yet determined struggle of Pan Jilin finding harmony with her own freedom and autonomy and in her pursuit of true love. The lyrics serve as an ode to the strength of female emancipation and revolution, while also recognizing the courage and resilience of the woman who faced incredible adversity in her own life. Mei Lanfang’s mournful ballad celebrates the struggle of Pan Jilin and pays tribute to her determination, strength, and courage to stand against convention in search of self-empowerment and true love.