Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the life and contributions of Xian Xinghai, emphasizing his role as a musician who used music as a weapon for national resistance during the Anti-Japanese War, particularly through his iconic work "Yellow River Cantata" [1][3][5]. Group 1: Background and Early Life - Xian Xinghai was born on June 13, 1905, in a poor family in Macau and studied music at various institutions including Lingnan University and the National Music Academy in Shanghai [3]. - He developed a deep sympathy for the working class and questioned the purpose of music, advocating for music that serves the common people rather than the elite [3]. Group 2: Involvement in Anti-Japanese War - After returning to China in 1935, Xian joined the Shanghai Drama Association's anti-Japanese efforts and participated in a series of performances to promote national resistance [5]. - Following the outbreak of the full-scale war, he organized mass singing movements and created numerous anti-Japanese songs, with "To the Enemy's Rear" being one of the most popular [5][7]. Group 3: Creation of "Yellow River Cantata" - Inspired by the poem "Yellow River Ode," Xian composed "Yellow River Cantata" over six days and nights during the Wuhan Campaign, which became a powerful anthem for the Chinese people's resistance [7][9]. - The cantata premiered in April 1939 and was met with strong acclaim, symbolizing the collective spirit of the Chinese people during the war [9]. Group 4: Later Life and Legacy - In 1940, Xian participated in the production of a documentary in Moscow and later integrated Kazakh musical elements into his works while in Kazakhstan [11]. - He passed away in Moscow in 1945, and his contributions were honored in both China and Kazakhstan, with a street named after him in Almaty, symbolizing the enduring friendship between the two nations [13].

Core Viewpoint - Xian Xinghai used music as a weapon to express the people's call for resistance during the war, with his masterpiece "Yellow River Cantata" symbolizing the indomitable spirit of the Chinese nation [1][17]. Group 1: Background and Early Life - Xian Xinghai was born on June 13, 1905, in a poor family in Macau, originally from Panyu County, Guangdong [3]. - He studied music at Lingnan University, Peking University Music Institute, and Shanghai National Conservatory of Music [3]. Group 2: Political Awakening and Musical Philosophy - During his youth, Xian developed a deep sympathy for the working class and questioned the purpose of music, advocating for music that serves the masses rather than the elite [4]. - In 1929, he went to Paris for further studies, where he was influenced by the political and social changes of the time, leading to a revolutionary mindset [6]. Group 3: Contribution to Anti-Japanese War - After returning to China in 1935, he joined the Shanghai Drama Association's anti-Japanese performance team, actively participating in cultural resistance efforts [6][8]. - Following the Marco Polo Bridge Incident, he toured various locations to promote anti-Japanese sentiments through music, creating numerous patriotic songs [8][10]. Group 4: Creation of "Yellow River Cantata" - Inspired by the poem "Yellow River Ode," Xian composed "Yellow River Cantata" over six days in a cave, which became a powerful anthem for the Chinese people's resistance [12][17]. - The cantata was first performed in April 1939 and resonated deeply with the public, symbolizing the collective spirit of the nation [21][25]. Group 5: Legacy and Impact - "Yellow River Cantata" became a rallying cry for countless individuals, motivating them to join the front lines of the anti-Japanese war [11][19]. - Xian Xinghai's understanding of music evolved to represent not only Chinese resistance but also a broader anti-fascist sentiment, uniting the global proletariat [29]. - He passed away in Moscow in 1945, leaving behind a legacy that was honored by various figures, including Mao Zedong [31].

Core Viewpoint - The article reflects on the historical significance of the song "May Flowers," its emotional impact during the war, and the contributions of individuals like Yan Shushi, who composed the music, and the author's father, who participated in the anti-Japanese resistance [10][12]. Group 1: Historical Context - The narrative recounts the experiences of the author's father during the anti-Japanese war, highlighting the harsh realities faced by soldiers and the role of music in boosting morale [4][6]. - The song "May Flowers" emerged as a significant anthem during the war, symbolizing hope and resilience among the Chinese people [10][11]. Group 2: Contributions of Yan Shushi - Yan Shushi, born in 1905, composed the music for "May Flowers," which quickly gained popularity and became a source of inspiration for many [10]. - His life was characterized by dedication to education and a humble demeanor, despite his impactful contributions to music and culture [12]. Group 3: Emotional Resonance - The song's lyrics evoke deep emotions, connecting the struggles of the past with the present, and serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made for the nation [9][14]. - The author reflects on the power of music to unite and inspire people, particularly during times of crisis [5][6].