Analogy in Guo the Camel Planter | Generated by AI
This question asks about the overall writing technique used in “The Biography of Guo the Camel Planter” (《种树郭橐驼传》) by Liu Zongyuan. The correct answer is B (analogy/类比), but you chose C.
Why It’s Analogy (类比)
The entire essay uses tree planting as an extended analogy for governing people. Here’s how the systematic comparison works:
The Analogical Structure
1. Basic principle:
- Tree planting → Governing people
- “Following the nature of trees to fulfill their natural tendencies” (顺木之天，以致其性)
- ↓↓↓ analogous to ↓↓↓
- “Following the nature of people to fulfill their natural tendencies” (顺民之天以致民之性)
2. The caring approach:
- “When planting, treat them like children” (其莳也若子)
- ↓↓↓ analogous to ↓↓↓
- Officials should care for and protect the common people
3. The hands-off approach:
- “Once planted, leave them as if abandoned” (其置也若弃)
- ↓↓↓ analogous to ↓↓↓
- Let the people rest and recuperate without excessive interference (休养生息)
4. The negative example:
- “Other planters love too deeply, worry too frequently” (爱之太殷，忧之太勤)
- ↓↓↓ analogous to ↓↓↓
- “Those in authority issue too many troublesome orders” (长人者好烦其令)
Layer-by-Layer Analogy (层层类比，环环相应)
The essay systematically corresponds every aspect of tree cultivation to governance:
- By explaining tree planting principles thoroughly
- The principles of governing people are also made clear
- This creates a complete, coherent argumentative structure
Why Not the Other Options?
C - Contrast/Foil (反衬): While there is some contrast (good vs. bad tree planters), this is a supporting technique, not the overall method. The essay’s main structure is built on the systematic tree-to-governance analogy.
A - Comparison (对比): There is comparison between Guo and other planters, but again, this serves the larger analogical framework.
D - Setting off/Highlighting (烘托): This technique enhances atmosphere or character, not the primary method here.
Key Takeaway
类比 (analogy) means using one complete system (A) to systematically explain another system (B). In this essay: tree planting (A) = governance (B) throughout the entire text, making it the overall/总体 writing method.