Composing lines on cardamom—her talent still dazzles;
Sleeping deeply by the China rose—even her dreams are fragrant.
English titles, text, and notes are AI-assisted for reading only; for scholarship cite the Chinese and authoritative editions.
Annotation
In Chapter 17, Baoyu composed this couplet for the Alpinia Park (Baochai's future residence). 'Cardamom' symbolizes youth; 'China rose' is a fragrant flower matching the Alpinia Park's abundance of aromatic plants.
Keep exploring
Jump from this poem to the relationship graph, story timeline, or its chapter.
Found an error or have research suggestions? We welcome feedback →Go to research contact