[Artistic Corner] Autumn


  Autumn is quietly approaching, and the leaves carry a faint scent of golden hues. Autumn brings us tranquility and spiritual elevation; it also gifts us wisdom and reflection.

  The wind, at last, no longer wanders; it settles in place for good, pausing now and then to drift aimlessly. Countless blades of grass and trees sway with the breeze, eagerly welcoming its arrival. Yet the rippling lake frowns ever so slightly, secretly musing that, given time, its own beautiful surface will once again become a cradle for fallen leaves. In motion and stillness, rising and falling, punctuated by sudden, restless whistles—what the autumn wind brings is an emotion all its own, one that belongs to the season.

  The rain, now and then shaken loose by an restless wind—thread‑thin, needle‑fine, or softly oval—drifts in endless strands. Though it seems gentle, it carries a subtle chill, lending the surroundings an air of cool serenity. Three autumn rains after the start of the season are enough to send one’s hemp‑cloth garments up on high; as for this delicate, soft drizzle, one mustn’t take it lightly. And when, every so often, bursts of heavy drops come crashing down like popcorn, they’ll surely let you taste autumn’s bold, unbridled spirit. On days when it does not rain, the sky captures countless gazes: an unusual blue, an extraordinary height—stretching the horizon while opening the heart and mind. Somewhere, a mountain song winds its way across the vast expanse, startling the leaves into golden hues, blushing the jujubes and apples, and adding to autumn’s mature, ripe essence.

  Night arrives with such haste, arousing the discontent of many elders—before this game has even ended! Yet it is also the cherished expectation of countless lovers, who nestle close, whispering tender secrets to one another… The crickets, oblivious to the mood, go on playing their tune, while the fireflies suddenly notice that the stars have grown both higher and brighter; unaccustomed to the change, they nearly knock over their own lanterns. This is the time when emotional exchange and expression are at their most intense: singers, dancers, lovers, and writers alike all use the means they master best to celebrate nature’s spirit and beauty.

  The heart, immersed in the comforting warmth of around 20 degrees Celsius, feels refreshed and cleansed of all restlessness, as if stepping into another world: no longer need to worry about swarms of mosquitoes, nor fear the relentless heat. The young play and leap with carefree abandon; the elderly, freed from the constant flutter of bamboo fans, seem suddenly much younger. The joy of leisurely strolls lifts the spirit, and the autumnal charm deepens accordingly. An environment free from scorching heat and bitter cold is, after all, the most soothing haven for the soul—otherwise, why would people choose the Mid-Autumn Festival to savor the precious moments of family reunion?

  Wind, rain, sky, night, and the heart—these are the five sonic elements of autumn’s symphony. Sometimes tender and graceful, sometimes bold and unrestrained, at times romantic, at times plain, they take turns in a grand orchestration, illuminating autumn’s enchanting beauty and its irresistible charm.

  The beauty of autumn is mature; it is neither as shy as spring, nor as unabashed as summer, nor as reserved as winter.

  The beauty of autumn is rational; it is neither as enchanting as spring, nor as fiery as summer, nor as reserved as winter.

  In such a beautiful autumn, wandering through nature and savoring the soul‑stirring joy of harmony between heaven and humanity is not merely about cherishing a cherished memory; it is also about boarding nature’s train, breathing in the golden essence of the season, and feeling the vibrant vitality of youth.