The Lotus and the Water Lily in Chinese Tradition

Lotus ponds are great habitats for many birds, including those of the Scolopacidae family. （photo by Kuo Chih-yung） The lotus （at right） is so full of life that painters have found it irresistible. Bada Shanren of the Qing dynasty painted many a "lotus and bird" scene, with the lotus captured in black ink and the bird gazing up into the sky. Though simple, such paintings are very rich.

The Asian lotus comes in only red and white varieties, but the culture o f admiring the lotus has existed for at least a millennium. Meanwhile, water lilies （pictured below）, which come in more colors, have recently become a favorite in Taiwan's flower markets.

Amidst lotus leaves, under the shade of the willow. boats drift aimlessly, following the water's whims. A languid sunset boat trip, returning to the city with a load of lotus cupules, must have been delightful. Is this not what we mean today by "quality of life"? The photo shows Scroll Painting of People, by Yang Jin of the Qing dynasty.

A lotus has just poked out its head, and already a dragonfly has staked out a claim. A lotus pond carries on our heritage, as the scene that so inspired the poets of old continues to serve as a cool refuge for modern people.