Though the palace walls rise high, they are no match for a heart with wings of its own. How can one claim to m…
Though the palace walls rise high, they are no match for a heart with wings of its own. How can one claim to measure the world, yet leave the palace's Inner Court uncharted?
Even from beyond the walls, the music never seemed to stop. Slipping inside for a furtive look, I found that this place, where the Son of Heaven holds his banquets, was not quite as grand as I had imagined.
The great hall of the Inner Court has everything it ought to, and its layout is compact and orderly, yet it can hardly be called spacious, nor is there any sign of gilding or jade inlay. It is said that His Majesty esteems frugality as the key to governance. Having seen it with my own eyes, I can well believe it.
A rare sight these past few days has been the performers and musicians invited in from outside the palace to rehearse, filling the whole place with cheer.
This was originally where the Imperial family lived, but it now serves as a venue for Rear Palace's banquets and ceremonial observances.
In preparation for His Majesty's birthday, new pieces are being rehearsed to pray for peace across the nation.
From the 17th day of the first month onward, His Majesty will go to the Grand Imperial Temple to have a Daoist altar set up for his birthday where the assembled officials would offer incense and prayers for blessings. Beyond that, banquet and court celebrations, along with music and dance, will be required as well.
I have heard that the government intends to restore the Tang institutions of the Court of Music and the Office of Drums and Fifes. Taking advantage of these birthday rehearsals, they're summoning musicians from beyond the palace to revise the scores, clear away the decadence, and set in order the proper sounds of a well-governed age.
This place is full of comings and goings, noisy and bustling, just to my liking. While I still have not been spotted, I should take a better look at the many curiosities of the palace!