Core Insights - The article discusses the historical significance and cultural impact of lychee in the Song Dynasty, highlighting its popularity among various social classes and its transformation into a common delicacy [1][3][12] Group 1: Historical Context - In the Song Dynasty, lychee products became widely available, with street vendors selling various lychee-related items, indicating a shift towards "lychee freedom" for the common people [1][3] - The first known monograph on lychee, "Guangzhong Litchi Pu," was written during the Northern Song period, documenting 22 varieties of lychee, although it has since been lost [5] - The "Litchi Pu" by Cai Xiang provided a comprehensive account of lychee cultivation and processing methods in Fujian and Guangdong, emphasizing the fruit's regional significance [5][6] Group 2: Lychee Products and Processing Techniques - Various lychee products mentioned include lychee syrup, candied lychee, and dried lychee, which were popular in the markets of the Song Dynasty [3][4] - Processing methods for lychee included "red salt," "white sun," and "honey simmering," each affecting the fruit's flavor and preservation differently [6][7] - The "red salt" method involved soaking lychee in a brine solution, resulting in a product that could be stored for several years but lost much of its original flavor [6][7] Group 3: Cultural Significance - Lychee was highly regarded by notable figures such as Su Shi and Cai Xiang, who praised its taste and beauty in their writings, indicating its cultural importance [8][9] - The story of "Eighteen Lady" lychee, linked to a historical figure, further illustrates the fruit's association with nobility and its esteemed status in society [8][9] - Emperor Huizong's efforts to transplant lychee trees to the capital reflect the fruit's value, as it became a symbol of luxury and imperial favor [10][11]