Why did he use this as a prologue?
Why did Zhang Ye use this sentence as a prologue?
Firstly, Zhang Ye wanted it to resonate with the works in the compilation. The poetry he liked and the poems he used from his world were all more open and free. Be it being indifferent, or cursing, or moving, or taking death lightly, or a life full of vibrancy, this poem that came from “Stray Birds” was perfectly apt. It was as if it summarized all his works at once. Secondly, this poem also reflected Zhang Ye’s character and ideals. It could also be said to describe his wishes.
Let life be beautiful like summer flowers and death like autumn leaves.
This sentence might seem slightly artistic, but in simple words, and using the words great men used to commemorate Comrade Liu Hulan, this poem could also be said to be—A great life! A glorious death! Actually, Zhang Ye also wanted this sentence of the greats as a prologue, but it was too blunt, nor was he that great and glorious to praise himself. Hence, his world’s famous poem from “Stray Birds” came out!