24 Solar Terms

The last flocks of southbound wild geese reach their wintering grounds, bringing the spectacle of migrating formations toward its close. The ancients described this as all the “guests” having arrived, and regarded it as one of the characteristic phenological signs of deep autumn.

The ancients observed that sparrows became less visible in late autumn while shellfish seemed more abundant along the seashore, giving rise to the romantic imagination that the birds entered the water and transformed into clams. In reality, this was another interpretation of the natural decrease in northern bird activity after seasonal migration.

Chrysanthemums bloom proudly during the cold days of deep autumn, their golden flowers becoming more brilliant as the weather grows colder. They form one of the grandest floral scenes of autumn and have long symbolized purity, integrity, and steadfastness.