Exploring Gasa Literature and Scenic Beauty in Damyang
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- blog.naver.com
Gasa literature is a literary genre that began in the late Goryeo period and flourished during the Joseon dynasty. It expresses the beauty of nature, life experiences, thoughts, and emotions in accordance with a certain rhythm, making it a representative form of traditional literature in Korea.
On a rainy morning filled with charm, I get into the car to head to Damyang. I am excited about what today’s itinerary will bring, eager to escape the repetitive cycle of daily life.
Raindrops gather on the car window as we pass through the rest area and arrive at the Damyang Gasa Literature Museum. The guide’s engaging and structured introduction to gasa literature brings to mind verses from Jeong Cheol's 'Seongsanbyeolgok,' 'Samiiingok,' and 'Sokmiingok.' I also recall the famous sunrise scene from 'Gwandongbyeolgok.'
The final verse of 'Sokmiingok' resonates with today’s rainy weather, so I would like to share it:
“Lady, the moon is just something to look at from afar; do not become the moon. Rather, become the pouring rain that soaks your lover's clothes and touches their skin directly.”
In an era where literary expression was dominated by temporality, gasa literature stands out as a pinnacle of artistry, perfectly capturing the poignant sentiments of the common people in pure Korean.
Sochwawon (瀟灑園) is a garden from the Joseon dynasty located in Jikok-ri, Gasa Literature-myeon, Damyang-gun, Jeollanam-do, South Korea. Scholar Yang San-bo (梁山甫, 1503–1557) established this villa garden after returning to his hometown following the political turmoil of the Myeongyo Incident, creating a space that showcases natural beauty and design, making it one of the most renowned gardens of the Joseon era.
Can you feel the beauty of Sochwawon? The thoughts of loyalty and filial piety are embodied in every tree and flower. It is astonishing to see a natural garden preserved over the years.
Though I thought I had visited many famous places in Korea, I realize there are still many I have yet to explore. Sochwawon is a place I definitely want to return to.
After enjoying a delicious lunch and greeting the koi we met there, we headed to Juknokwon. I learned meaningful stories about the properties of bamboo. It is said that on rainy days like today, negative ions are released at a rate 7,000 times higher, so I take a deep breath of the fresh air.
In the past, bamboo groves were vital resources for education and housing, but they have disappeared due to mass production of plastic. The mayor of Damyang restored abandoned bamboo groves to create the current Juknokwon, despite facing significant opposition at the time. Today, it has been revived as a national tourist attraction.
Walking through the bamboo forest path, I take a moment to reflect. There is a footbath available, and soaking my feet brings me peace.
Today was a day filled with gratitude.
Namaste~~^^
Source :https://blog.naver.com/geochanggun/224469166488
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