[Guqin] Lament at Changmen Palace - Liu Li 长门怨 - 刘丽

"Lament at Changmen Palace" is said to be composed by Han dynasty litterati Sima Xiangru on behalf Han emperor Wudi's Empress Chen who had lost the emperor's favor and confined to Changmen Palace. The somber melody which at time mimic cries of despair and uncontrolled sobbing depicts the sorrow faced by Empress Chen, who though abandoned by the emperor remained loyal and dedicated to him in heart and mind. The story goes that upon hearing the melody played, the Emperor Wudi was deeply moved and subsequently restored the empress to favor.