What does Ho Xuan Huong want to convey through the poem "Mời trầu"? What are the required outcomes regarding the speaking and listening​ content in the 8th-grade Literature curriculum in Vietnam?

Things that Ho Xuan Huong wants to convey through the poem "Mời trầu"

The poem "Mời trầu" by Ho Xuan Huong is a concise work yet carries profound meanings, not only showcasing her poetic talent but also clearly revealing the thoughts and personality of a strong, confident, and decisive woman. Through the poem, Ho Xuan Huong invites not just a piece of betel quid in the literal sense but also conveys deep messages about love, relationships, and the value of individuals in feudal society.

A small betel fruit, a pungent quid

This fresh from Xuan Huong’s hand just now

If we are destined, it will color again

Do not be green like leaves, silver like lime

Firstly, the images of the betel fruit and quid in the poem are not only common items in daily life but also symbols of love, attachment, and harmony between people. In folk culture, betel and areca are often seen as a connection of emotions, especially in marriage rituals. However, through Ho Xuan Huong’s use, the small betel fruit and pungent quid no longer appear perfect but become symbols of simplicity and ordinariness, without disguising imperfections. The act of making the quid shows Ho Xuan Huong’s initiative, affirming a strong personality, unafraid to express oneself, and not needing extravagance to prove one’s value.

The line "If we are destined, it will color again" clearly expresses Ho Xuan Huong's desire for sincere and lasting love. She believes that if the emotions between two people are truly destined, then the relationship will grow and deepen. The line also shows a decisive attitude, not pandering or clinging to fragile affections. Ho Xuan Huong not only expresses sincerity but also affirms an independent and self-reliant stance in love. This is quite bold and different from the traditional view of women’s passive role in feudal society.

In contrast to the image of “color again” is the phrase “do not be green like leaves, silver like lime.” These two images contain stark contrasts, symbolizing easily changeable and unstable relationships. "Green like leaves" evokes freshness but also emphasizes the transient, fleeting nature, while "silver like lime" critiques changing, deceptive emotions. Through this, Ho Xuan Huong not only expresses her aspiration for enduring love but also indirectly criticizes pretentious relationships and insincere people in society.

Besides the profound content, the poem also demonstrates Ho Xuan Huong's unique language artistry. She uses language that is close to the folk, yet each word is carefully selected, with multiple layers of meaning. The concise and succinct verse creates a multi-dimensional space where readers can feel both lightness and sharpness, humor and contemplation about love and humanity.

From a social perspective, the poem also asserts the right to freedom and equality in love for women. In a feudal society filled with prejudices and mores, where love was often constrained by strict rules, Ho Xuan Huong boldly expressed her personal views, emphasizing that love must be based on sincerity and true bonding, not compulsion or superficiality. The action of offering betel quid here is not merely an invitation for interaction but also a declaration of the freedom to choose love and one’s way of life.

In summary, the poem "Mời trầu" by Ho Xuan Huong is a work rich in meaning, both gentle and profound, both familiar and full of personality. Through the poem, Ho Xuan Huong expresses the aspiration for sincere, lasting love, while affirming her independent personality and confidence. This is a strong protest voice of a talented woman against the strict constraints of feudal society, leaving valuable lessons about love and life for future generations.