ABSTRACT
The couplet is an important Chinese cultural heritage. It is a combination of the artistry of using the Chinese language in a poetic manner and writing the Chinese characters in an aesthetic way. Hong Kong has numerous places, sites, or historic buildings which are adorned with couplets. Many of these couplets are not only very well-composed by famous writers but also very well-written by famous calligraphers. Information on the history, culture, and anecdotes of the literary arena of Hong Kong provided by these couplets may contribute to a better understanding of local history, customs and behaviour of the inhabitants. The ongoing 2-year research aims to salvage this precious part of Hong Kong literature, art, and culture by recording couplets posted or inscribed on outdoor and indoor structures in Hong Kong before they are destroyed in the course of time. It employs a combination of the methods of field study, library research, and data analysis. Field study consists of visiting sites where couplets are likely to be found, targeted structures being temples, pavilions, pagodas, quadrangles, and Chinese gardens. After the couplets are recorded and photographed, the research assistant will go to the Public Records Office and libraries to search the archives for their background information. The research outcome will consist of a monograph containing all the couplets recorded. Information on the locations and descriptions of the structures where the couplets are found will be provided. The form, tonal and rhythmic patterns of the couplets will be carefully examined and analyzed with the aim of clarifying the rules for couplet composition. The present paper will use illustrative examples to show how these couplets give us useful information on local history and culture. Their artistry and tonal and rhythmic patterns will also be examined.
KEYWORDS
Chinese Couplets, Hong Kong Structures, Rules For Couplet Composition, History And Culture