Musical Symbols and Their Symbolic Meanings in Song Dynasty Literary Works

Abstract

Musical symbols in Song Dynasty literature form a unique literary and artistic phenomenon with their diverse textual representations and profound symbolic meanings. These musical symbols not only integrate into poetry, prose, and drama as aesthetic imagery but also reflect the Song literati’s deep understanding of nature, culture, and the relationships between the individual and society, through their rich emotional expression and cultural transmission functions. This study analyzes the textual forms, functional types, and genre differences in the representation of musical symbols, revealing their symbolic meanings in emotional expression, cultural identity, and philosophical significance. It further explores the unique contributions of musical symbols to artistic innovation and aesthetic value, showcasing the cross-media fusion of literature and music in the Song Dynasty.