Maple trees and plane trees have deep symbolic meanings in traditional Chinese culture. The difference between the two lies not only in their form and growing environment, but also in the cultural connotation that people give them.
First, let's look at the maple tree. In many places, maple trees are considered "auspicious trees". In autumn, when the maple leaves turn bright red, it is believed to symbolize prosperity and good luck. In some villages, newlyweds choose to have their wedding under a maple tree in the hope of good luck and happiness in their marriage. In addition, during the Mid-Autumn Festival, maple leaves are often used as a backdrop for moon viewing, symbolizing family reunion and family harmony.
In contrast, the cultural meaning of the plane tree is much richer. First of all, the plane tree is regarded as a symbol of "loyalty" because of its tall and upright posture. In ancient Chinese poetry, sycamore trees are often used as a metaphor for the unyielding qualities of loyalty, such as the story of "planting a phoenix to attract a phoenix", which conveys the nobility and purity of the sycamore tree. Furthermore, due to the unique shape of the leaves of the sycamore tree, it is also regarded as a symbol of "wisdom". In some places, parents will let their children study under the plane tree, hoping to absorb wisdom and improve their academic performance.
In addition to the above symbolism, there are many other legends and sayings about maple and plane trees. For example, the phrase "you can't do it alone" is used to describe how a person cannot succeed without the help of a companion or help. Here, the word "canoe" alludes to the maple tree. And "phoenix sycamore" is a common idiom, a metaphor for virtuous and talented people to find their own home.
In general, both maple and plane trees have a unique status and significance in Chinese folk culture. They are not only two kinds of trees in nature, but also the sustenance of good wishes and ideals in people's hearts. Whether it is the prosperity and good fortune of the maple leaf, or the nobility and wisdom of the sycamore, it is people's beautiful expectation of life.
In addition to this, the two are also different in their actual use. For example, maple wood has a moderate hardness and is often used to make furniture or building timber; The wood of the sycamore tree is relatively soft, which is more suitable for making musical instruments, such as the resonance box of the guzheng is made of sycamore wood.
In addition, in some parts of China, it is believed that the maple tree has the magical power to ward off evil spirits. Therefore, when building a house or moving, people will plant maple trees in front of the house to ensure the safety of the house. Sycamore trees, on the other hand, are often chosen as street trees or landscape trees in parks because of their tall stature and graceful form.
In conclusion, maple and plane trees have their own unique status and symbolism in traditional Chinese culture, and they are also inextricably linked. They are not only two kinds of trees in nature, but also the sustenance of good wishes and ideals in people's hearts. Whether it is the prosperity and good fortune of the maple leaf, or the nobility and wisdom of the sycamore, it is people's beautiful expectation of life.