Cold Dew is the seventeenth of the 24 solar terms, marking a pivotal moment in autumn. This transition invites us to witness the enchanting transformation of nature as it shifts from cool to chilly temperatures.
The term “Cold Dew” really embodies the crispness that comes with dew formation in the cooling air. It signifies a deeper progression into autumn, with a vivid display of colors surrounding us. During this time, plants exhibit a spectrum of feelings; some display a delicate grace, while others radiate intense vibrancy. We see maple leaves turning a brilliant red, poplars glowing in yellow, and chrysanthemums proudly showcasing their blooms, making them stand out beautifully against other flowers. There’s a saying that resonates during this season: “Frosty leaves are redder than flowers in February.”
Folk wisdom states, “When the geese leave in August, they bring frost with them,” and this aligns well with the migration of wild geese as they make their way south during Cold Dew.
This season also signals a bustling time for everyone, as the harvest is in full swing. Farmers are hard at work planting wheat, gathering flowers, and reaping crops like cotton and oil-tea camellia. This flurry of activity adds another layer of poetic beauty to this solar term.
Across various regions—from the breathtaking Daxing’anling in Heilongjiang to the stunning landscapes of Benxi in Liaoning, the expansive fields of Jinta in Gansu, the lively city of Wuhan in Hubei, and the striking natural beauty of Xinjiang and Kunming in Yunnan—each area has its own unique interpretation of Cold Dew, showcasing the essence of this remarkable time of year.
So, what does Cold Dew mean to you? How do you embrace this vibrant transition in your community?
