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Stories about some
of the uses of theBamboo Flute
The uses of the bamboo flute have to do with the story of the meaning of firecracker, because of the joints of bamboo. Because the root joint at the base of the large stem is bigger and stronger than the rest of it, the root joint acts as a support
- an energetic push- to raise and give lift to Qi (chi). (For more of an idea of the nature and use of the Bamboo, see the section about the firecracker.)The music made by the bamboo flute is soft and nostalgic. It is said that the sound of the flute can bring peace to society. Once there was a civil war in which the two opposing armies of men were locked in battle. It was a full moon night, and both sides were at rest. On one side, Colonel Chang sat on the Great Wall and played the bamboo flute. When the soldiers on both sides heard the music they became homesick, and put down their weapons and walked home. The next morning the war was over, without further bloodshed.
Some people say that the tone of the flute brings romance to the ears of all who hear. The Phoenix, a symbol for romance and happiness, is attracted by the sound of the flute music. Like the image of Spaniards who play guitar under the window, the Chinese play the flute to create a romantic, wooing mood.
Copyright ©1997 by Edgar Sung, all rights reserved.
Feng Shui Stories by Dr. Edgar Sung
