Along with the custom of writing the first words of the year, the Vietnamese have a refined and elegant tradition of seeking calligraphy during the Lunar New Year. This practice embodies hopes for a harmonious, lucky, and peaceful new year for individuals and families. It is a meaningful cultural activity rooted in the Vietnamese reverence for education, the written word, and knowledge.
In ancient times in Vietnam, during the Spring season, people often visited Thầy Đồ—scholars or those well-versed in literature—to request calligraphy to display as a decorative item and a source of spiritual nourishment. The Thầy Đồ, or calligraphy masters, would write one or several characters on a large sheet of paper, often conveying blessings or educational messages. The writing was typically praised for its elegance, described as being as graceful as "dragons soaring and phoenixes dancing." This style of writing was known as Thư pháp (calligraphy).
In the past, those who created calligraphy were often individuals with extensive education, such as teachers or scholars who had passed imperial exams and earned recognition as men of accomplishment and honor. The characters were usually written in Chữ Nho (Classical Chinese script) in various styles on red paper. The calligrapher, influenced by their mood and artistic flair, would create unique, eye-catching forms of the characters, making each piece distinct and special.
The characters are often written on red paper, as red is considered the most vibrant color and, according to Eastern beliefs that persist to this day, symbolizes life and rebirth. Red is also a symbol of good fortune, which is why everything during the Lunar New Year is red: peach blossoms, parallel sentences, and lucky money envelopes all bear the color red.
People of all ages, classes, and professions seek to obtain these calligraphic characters. Each character corresponds to an individual, a specific circumstance, or a particular task, carrying emotions, aspirations, or a certain concept. Commonly requested characters include Phúc (Happiness), Lộc (Prosperity), Thọ (Longevity), An Khang (Peace and Health), Cát Tường (Good Fortune), and Như Ý (As Wished) to pray for peace and well-being for the family and descendants. Businesspeople often ask for characters like Phát (Development), Lộc (Prosperity), Tài (Wealth), and Vượng (Flourishing) to wish for growth and smooth sailing in their business endeavors.
Young individuals striving for success often request characters such as Chí (Will), Thành (Achievement), Đạt (Success), Đắc (Accomplishment), and Nhẫn (Perseverance), hoping to remain steadfast and determined in overcoming challenges and achieving their goals in life. For children, parents often request characters such as Học (Learning), Hiếu (Filial Piety), Lễ (Respect), Nghĩa (Righteousness), and Tiến (Advancement), wishing for their children to grow up as filial, honorable individuals who contribute positively to society.
The Vietnamese people have a deep respect for education. They seek the wisdom of teachers, and even if they cannot attend school, the words given by the teacher are hung in a place of honor on the wall. During the sacred moments of transition between the old and new year, these words seep deeply into the thoughts and actions of each individual, embodying a lifelong learning process.
It is not only in times of prosperity that people seek knowledge. After a year of struggling through rain, sun, and hardships, even during periods of scarcity, they still set aside a little money during the Lunar New Year to request a few meaningful words. Not everyone who knows how to write can give these characters. Those who give them must understand both the meaning of the words and the hearts of those who request them. The handwriting reflects the person's character. For the seeker, the act of requesting these words is a spiritual gesture. Only with sincerity and virtue can one truly shine. The teacher's words are meant to bear the weight of life’s struggles, to inspire perseverance and success—not as a stroke of luck in a lottery.
The Return of Calligraphy
Since the Lunar New Year of 2014, the calligraphy writing area has been permanently relocated to the Hồ Văn area in front of the Văn Miếu (Temple of Literature), transforming it into a bustling "Phố Ông Đồ" (Street of Calligraphers), accompanied by various other cultural and folk activities. It has become one of the favorite destinations for the people of Hanoi.
The strong revival of the tradition of requesting and giving calligraphy characters has sparked a new trend related to learning and examinations. Everyone aspires to obtain meaningful characters to guide them in their careers and life journeys.
Today, the art of calligraphy has expanded beyond the traditional “black ink on red paper,” incorporating materials such as wood, stone, bamboo, silk, and brocade. Moreover, it’s no longer only elderly men in traditional attire like black tunics and turbans who offer calligraphy. Over half of the calligraphers today are university students majoring in Han-Nom studies or attending art schools.
People seeking calligraphy today come from all ages, backgrounds, and professions. Middle-aged individuals often request characters like "Tâm" (Heart) or "Đức" (Virtue); young men and women ask for "Yêu" (Love), "Hiếu" (Filial Piety), or "Trung" (Loyalty). Those with a compassionate and respectful nature may request "Cha" (Father) or "Mẹ" (Mother). Exam-takers seek "Đăng khoa" (Success in Examinations). Young people might ask for "Trí tuệ" (Wisdom) or "Chí hướng" (Ambition), while children could receive "Minh" (Bright/Intelligent). To honor parents, people might request "An khang" (Peace and Prosperity) or "Hiếu" (Filial Piety), and for elders, the indispensable "Thọ" (Longevity).
The practice of requesting calligraphy at the beginning of the year is becoming increasingly popular, evolving into a beautiful custom for Vietnamese people during the Lunar New Year. This meaningful tradition is now observed in many places across the country. From the North to the South, from urban areas to rural highlands, regardless of wealth or status, one can often witness the sincere expressions of those seeking calligraphy as they show respect and devotion to the calligraphers.
Calligraphy is a Reflection of Vietnamese Culture and Learning
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