Tiếng gà trưa

The iconic Vietnamese poem "Tiếng gà trưa" by Xuan Quynh is a poignant and evocative piece that captures the essence of rural life and the profound connection between generations. Through simple yet powerful imagery, the poem explores themes of nostalgia, love, and the enduring spirit of the Vietnamese people. The poem's enduring popularity lies in its ability to resonate with readers on a deeply personal level, evoking memories of childhood, family, and the simple joys of life.

<h2 style="font-weight: bold; margin: 12px 0;">The Call of Home</h2>

The poem opens with the speaker, a young soldier, stationed far from home, hearing the familiar sound of a rooster crowing at noon. This simple sound triggers a flood of memories, transporting the speaker back to his childhood home in the countryside. The rooster's call becomes a symbol of home, a reminder of the warmth and comfort of family and the simple pleasures of rural life. The speaker's vivid descriptions of the rooster's crow, "Tiếng gà trưa/ Ổi chín vàng hương bay khói bếp/ Lòng vui sướng" (The rooster's crow/ Ripe guava, yellow, its fragrance drifts with the kitchen smoke/ My heart is filled with joy), paint a picture of idyllic peace and contentment.

<h2 style="font-weight: bold; margin: 12px 0;">The Love of Family</h2>

The rooster's call also evokes memories of the speaker's grandmother, a central figure in his childhood. The poem portrays a deep and loving relationship between the speaker and his grandmother, highlighting her nurturing care and the profound impact she had on his life. The speaker remembers his grandmother's gentle hands, "Bà ủ ấm/ Nắng sớm ban mai/ Cháu chiến đấu / Ngày mai / Thắng / Bà / Vui / Cháu / Vui / Bà / Vui / Cháu / Vui" (Grandma warms me/ With the morning sun/ I fight/ Tomorrow/ Victory/ Grandma/ Happy/ I/ Happy/ Grandma/ Happy/ I/ Happy), and the unwavering support she provided him. The grandmother's love and sacrifice are woven into the fabric of the poem, serving as a source of strength and inspiration for the speaker.

<h2 style="font-weight: bold; margin: 12px 0;">The Spirit of Resilience</h2>

Beyond the personal memories, "Tiếng gà trưa" also speaks to the resilience and enduring spirit of the Vietnamese people. The poem was written during the Vietnam War, a time of great hardship and sacrifice. The speaker's journey from his peaceful childhood home to the battlefield underscores the stark realities of war and the sacrifices made by ordinary people. However, the poem's tone remains hopeful, suggesting that even in the face of adversity, the love of family and the spirit of resilience can prevail. The rooster's call, a symbol of life and renewal, serves as a reminder that hope and beauty can be found even in the darkest of times.

"Tiếng gà trưa" is a testament to the power of memory and the enduring bonds of family. The poem's simple yet profound imagery evokes a sense of nostalgia, love, and resilience, reminding us of the importance of cherishing our loved ones and finding strength in the face of adversity. The poem's enduring popularity speaks to its universal themes and its ability to resonate with readers across generations and cultures.