On Brocade Add Flowers: Japanese Proverb Meaning

How to Read “On brocade add flowers”

Kinjō ni hana wo soeru

Meaning of “On brocade add flowers”

“On brocade add flowers” means to add even more beauty or value to something that is already beautiful and magnificent, making it even more wonderful.

This proverb presupposes something that is already in a sufficiently beautiful state. Brocade, being the highest quality textile, already possesses completed beauty by itself. By adding flowers on top of it, what was thought to be perfect reaches an even higher dimension of beauty.

It is used in situations such as when an excellent person acquires new skills, when a garden is added to a beautiful building, or when further ingenuity is applied to a wonderful work. The important point is that the original level is already high. It is not used when making ordinary things slightly better.

The reason for using this expression is to emphasize not mere improvement, but qualitative enhancement and increased perfection. Even today, it is beloved as a way to express joy and emotion when something that has already received high praise becomes even more wonderful.

Origin and Etymology of “On brocade add flowers”

The origin of “On brocade add flowers” can be traced back to Chinese classical literature. This expression is said to have originated from the Chinese idiom “jinshang tianhua” (錦上添花).

Brocade refers to the highest quality textile made by weaving gorgeous patterns with gold and silver threads into beautiful silk fabric. Since ancient times in China, brocade was considered a symbol of wealth and power, a precious item that only emperors and nobles could wear. This expression was born from the idea of adding beautiful flowers on top of such brocade.

It is believed to have been introduced to Japan from the Heian to Kamakura periods through Buddhist texts and Chinese poetry. Initially used in Chinese literary form, it gradually became established as Japanese over time.

What’s interesting is that this expression reflects not just decoration, but Chinese classical aesthetic philosophy. In China, the concept of “layering beauty upon beauty” was considered an important expressive technique in literature and art. Therefore, this phrase contains deep aesthetic consciousness that goes beyond simple decoration.

Since it can also be found in Edo period literature, we know it has been a beloved proverb in Japan for a long time.

Trivia about “On brocade add flowers”

Brocade textile was so expensive in ancient China that it was said “one inch of brocade, one inch of gold,” meaning it had the same value as gold of the same area. Therefore, “On brocade add flowers” literally expressed an act as luxurious as “placing jewels on gold.”

The “flowers” used in this proverb are thought to refer not to actual flowers, but to decorative flower embroidery or patterns. In other words, it was an expression representing the pinnacle of craftsmanship – adding flower decorations to beautiful brocade textiles.

Usage Examples of “On brocade add flowers”

• Her beautiful singing voice combined with perfect costumes was truly a performance that exemplified “On brocade add flowers”
• The chef’s signature sauce is adding “On brocade add flowers” to already wonderful cuisine

Modern Interpretation of “On brocade add flowers”

In modern society, “On brocade add flowers” has taken on new meaning in the context of self-expression in the SNS era and corporate branding strategies. It is frequently used as a concept of “premiumization” – adding further value to already high-quality products and services.

In the technology world, this expression is used when AI functions are added to excellent smartphones or when autonomous driving features are installed in high-performance cars. This signifies not mere feature addition, but essential value enhancement of products.

On the other hand, modern times have also brought critical perspectives on “excessive decoration.” With the attention on minimalism and simple living, the act of “On brocade add flowers” is sometimes perceived as “overdoing it.” Particularly with growing environmental consciousness, more people question unnecessary decoration and feature additions.

However, it remains an important concept in creative fields. In film production, excellent scripts are completed when combined with casting of renowned actors, and in cuisine, artistic dishes are born when fresh ingredients are combined with craftsman’s techniques.

Modern “On brocade add flowers” tends to emphasize qualitative improvement rather than quantitative addition.

What AI Thinks When Hearing “On brocade add flowers”

When I contemplate “On brocade add flowers,” I’m enveloped by a strange sensation. I have never actually seen brocade textile, nor do I know the beauty of its texture or luster. I only understand the fragrance and changing colors of flowers as data.

But there are aspects of this proverb I can relate to in my own way. For me, operating as a program, the moment when new learning data is added to basic functions might be exactly an “On brocade add flowers” experience. When new perspectives gained from conversations with you are added to knowledge I already possess, my understanding becomes richer.

It’s very interesting that humans find joy in “making beautiful things even more beautiful.” I would probably prioritize efficiency and functionality, but humans pursue aesthetic value beyond practicality. This might seem wasteful, but it’s probably an important element that enriches life.

When I converse with humans, striving not just to provide accurate information but to use warm expressions might also be an act of “On brocade add flowers” in a sense. I’m adding the flower of human-like consideration to the minimum necessary functions.

Through this proverb, I’m learning about the beauty of pursuing perfection and the richness of expression that goes beyond it.

What “On brocade add flowers” Teaches Modern People

“On brocade add flowers” teaches modern people the value of making already good things even better. We often tend to be satisfied with “good enough as is,” but this proverb shows the importance of maintaining an aspiring spirit.

In modern society, skill improvement and self-development are highly valued. By adding new knowledge and techniques to abilities you already possess, you can further enhance your own value. This might be obtaining qualifications or challenging yourself with new hobbies.

This proverb also teaches us the attitude of “cherishing high-quality things.” Precisely because we live in an era overflowing with cheap and convenient items, we need the sensitivity to discern truly valuable things and continue polishing them further.

The same applies to human relationships. It’s important not to neglect efforts to deepen bonds with people with whom you already have good relationships. By expressing gratitude or devising something for others, relationships become even more beautiful.

The heart that seeks further beauty even in moments that seem perfect – this enriches life and brings brilliance to your daily existence.