陳子(zi)龍(long)祖上世代(dai)務農(nong),父(fu)(fu)親(qin)陳所聞,以文學名(ming)江南,萬(wan)歷四十(shi)七年(nian)(nian)中(zhong)(zhong)(zhong)進(jin)士,官至(zhi)刑、工兩部侍郎。陳子(zi)龍(long)于萬(wan)歷三(san)十(shi)六(liu)(liu)(liu)年(nian)(nian)六(liu)(liu)(liu)月初一出(chu)生(sheng),父(fu)(fu)親(qin)為(wei)(wei)(wei)其取名(ming)為(wei)(wei)(wei)介。不(bu)久后,其母告訴其父(fu)(fu),在生(sheng)子(zi)當晚,夢(meng)見(jian)房間壁上有龍(long)出(chu)現,“蜿(wan)蜒有光”,其父(fu)(fu)因(yin)此改(gai)其名(ming)為(wei)(wei)(wei)“子(zi)龍(long)”。五(wu)歲時,生(sheng)母病(bing)逝(shi),使其受到(dao)(dao)很大打擊。六(liu)(liu)(liu)歲入學,勤治經史(shi),力(li)攻章句。天(tian)啟(qi)三(san)年(nian)(nian)(1623年(nian)(nian)),十(shi)六(liu)(liu)(liu)歲的(de)(de)子(zi)龍(long)舉童(tong)子(zi)試(shi)(shi),縣試(shi)(shi)中(zhong)(zhong)(zhong)名(ming)居(ju)第(di)二,府(fu)試(shi)(shi)也位居(ju)高等(deng)(deng),但在院(yuan)試(shi)(shi)中(zhong)(zhong)(zhong)落(luo)選。次年(nian)(nian)再次在院(yuan)試(shi)(shi)中(zhong)(zhong)(zhong)落(luo)選,直到(dao)(dao)十(shi)八(ba)歲時,第(di)三(san)次參加童(tong)子(zi)試(shi)(shi),才獲得成功,成為(wei)(wei)(wei)生(sheng)員(yuan)(yuan)(“秀才”)。時大批廷臣因(yin)為(wei)(wei)(wei)反(fan)對(dui)魏忠賢,紛紛被削職為(wei)(wei)(wei)民或逮之獄(yu)死。陳所聞告病(bing)在家,每閱(yue)邸報,扼腕嘆息,教陳子(zi)龍(long)剖析邪正,明(ming)辨是非。天(tian)啟(qi)五(wu)年(nian)(nian)(1625年(nian)(nian)),他先后與本(ben)郡夏允彝、徐孚遠、周立(li)勛、宋(song)征璧以及(ji)蘇州、嘉興等(deng)(deng)府(fu)的(de)(de)一些文人學士結為(wei)(wei)(wei)好(hao)友,切磋學術,議論時務,后來大都成為(wei)(wei)(wei)明(ming)季江南黨社運動的(de)(de)骨干分(fen)子(zi)。天(tian)啟(qi)六(liu)(liu)(liu)年(nian)(nian)(1626年(nian)(nian)),補松江府(fu)學生(sheng)員(yuan)(yuan)。父(fu)(fu)親(qin)病(bing)歿,居(ju)家守孝(xiao),閉門不(bu)出(chu),博覽群書,尤其致力(li)于古文詞。
崇禎(zhen)元(yuan)年(nian)(nian)(nian)(nian)(1628年(nian)(nian)(nian)(nian)),陳(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)二十一歲,與湖(hu)廣寶(bao)慶府邵陽知(zhi)縣(xian)張軌端之(zhi)女結為(wei)夫(fu)妻。崇禎(zhen)二年(nian)(nian)(nian)(nian),夏允(yun)彝、杜麟征(zheng)二人(ren)在松江(jiang)組織(zhi)“幾(ji)(ji)社(she)”。“幾(ji)(ji)者,絕學(xue)有再興之(zhi)幾(ji)(ji),而得知(zhi)幾(ji)(ji)其(qi)神之(zhi)義也。”最初(chu)入社(she)者有周立(li)勛、徐孚遠、彭賓三人(ren)。陳(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)“甫弱冠,聞是(shi)舉(ju)(ju)也,奮然來歸。諸(zhu)君子(zi)(zi)以年(nian)(nian)(nian)(nian)少訝之(zhi),乃(nai)其(qi)才學(xue)則已(yi)精通(tong)經史(shi),落紙(zhi)驚人(ren),遂成六(liu)(liu)子(zi)(zi)之(zhi)數”,世稱“幾(ji)(ji)社(she)六(liu)(liu)子(zi)(zi)”。幾(ji)(ji)社(she)和其(qi)他文(wen)社(she)一樣(yang),起初(chu)是(shi)通(tong)過以文(wen)會友(you),選擇知(zhi)己,學(xue)習制藝,后(hou)(hou)來隨著政治形勢(shi)(shi)的變化,逐(zhu)漸演變成一股政治勢(shi)(shi)力。幾(ji)(ji)社(she)成立(li)后(hou)(hou)匯刻(ke)八股文(wen)范本《幾(ji)(ji)社(she)壬申文(wen)選》,集(ji)(ji)(ji)六(liu)(liu)子(zi)(zi)之(zhi)文(wen),人(ren)各六(liu)(liu)十首。又刻(ke)《幾(ji)(ji)社(she)會義初(chu)集(ji)(ji)(ji)》、《二集(ji)(ji)(ji)》、《三集(ji)(ji)(ji)》、《四(si)集(ji)(ji)(ji)》、《五集(ji)(ji)(ji)》,幾(ji)(ji)社(she)的聲勢(shi)(shi)由此大振。陳(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)的名氣亦因之(zhi)日(ri)重(zhong),“問業者日(ri)進(jin),戶外屨(ju)滿”。崇禎(zhen)三年(nian)(nian)(nian)(nian)(1630年(nian)(nian)(nian)(nian))秋,赴南京(jing)應(ying)南直隸鄉試,中(zhong)舉(ju)(ju)人(ren)。同(tong)年(nian)(nian)(nian)(nian),赴京(jing)師參加次年(nian)(nian)(nian)(nian)春(chun)的會試,“為(wei)省中(zhong)某公所黜”,周延儒建議朝廷重(zhong)新檢閱被(bei)廢黜考生(sheng)試卷,朝廷同(tong)意,開始重(zhong)審,陳(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)答卷受到文(wen)安之(zhi)、倪元(yuan)璐賞識,周延儒“欲置異等”,但因陳(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)卷子(zi)(zi)存在涂(tu)抹(mo),周害(hai)怕被(bei)政敵(di)溫體(ti)仁借(jie)機(ji)攻訐(jie),放棄錄(lu)取,于是(shi)陳(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)落第(di)歸里,從(cong)事古文(wen)詞。又作(zuo)書(shu)數萬言,極(ji)論時政得失(shi),本欲上奏朝廷,被(bei)當(dang)時松江(jiang)名士陳(chen)繼儒戒之(zhi)而止。
崇禎七年春,再度應會(hui)試,因此(ci)次(ci)主管錄取的是溫(wen)體仁(ren),溫(wen)體仁(ren)極度排斥復(fu)社(she)成(cheng)員(yuan),這一年復(fu)社(she)成(cheng)員(yuan)被錄取人數急劇減少(shao),陳(chen)(chen)子龍自然落榜。受此(ci)重大打擊,陳(chen)(chen)子龍幾乎(hu)心灰意(yi)冷,回家(jia)閉門謝客,“專意(yi)于(yu)學問”,作古(gu)詩樂府百余章。接著(zhu),在松江南(nan)園讀書(shu)、寫作,成(cheng)《屬玉堂(tang)集(ji)》、《平露(lu)堂(tang)集(ji)》。
崇(chong)禎十年,第三次北(bei)上,與夏(xia)允彝同中進士,俱在丙科(ke)(三甲),當(dang)就外(wai)吏。陳子龍選得廣東惠州(zhou)府(fu)司理,未抵任而聞繼母亡,回(hui)家治喪。
此時關外清(qing)軍壓力(li)與關內(nei)饑民起義(yi)使得本已衰(shuai)朽的(de)(de)明(ming)(ming)王朝已危在旦夕,同時促使一批憂國(guo)(guo)憂民的(de)(de)知識分子對王陽明(ming)(ming)后學(xue)的(de)(de)空談誤國(guo)(guo)產生(sheng)強烈的(de)(de)不滿,大聲疾呼“經世致用”,以(yi)改變殘酷的(de)(de)社會現實,陳子龍(long)就是其中的(de)(de)一位典型代表。這一時期,他(ta)為古代中國(guo)(guo)科(ke)學(xue)與文化的(de)(de)發展做了兩件極有(you)意義(yi)的(de)(de)事(shi)情(qing)。
崇(chong)禎十(shi)一(yi)(yi)年(1638年)夏,陳(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍以(yi)“君子(zi)(zi)之(zhi)(zhi)學(xue)(xue),貴于識時(shi)(shi);時(shi)(shi)之(zhi)(zhi)所急,務之(zhi)(zhi)恐后(hou)”的(de)(de)緊迫感(gan),與(yu)徐孚遠、宋(song)徵璧一(yi)(yi)起,取明(ming)朝名卿大臣“有涉世務、國政(zheng)”之(zhi)(zhi)文(wen),“擷其精(jing)英”,“又旁(pang)采以(yi)助(zhu)高深(shen)”,“志在征實(shi)(shi)”,輯成《皇明(ming)經(jing)(jing)(jing)世文(wen)編(bian)》,凡五百零四卷,又補遺(yi)四卷。是(shi)(shi)書選文(wen)以(yi)明(ming)治(zhi)(zhi)亂、存異同、詳軍(jun)事、重(zhong)經(jing)(jing)(jing)濟為原則,內容十(shi)分豐(feng)富,包括政(zheng)治(zhi)(zhi)、軍(jun)事、賦(fu)役、財經(jing)(jing)(jing)、農(nong)田、水利、學(xue)(xue)校文(wen)化、典章制度等(deng)(deng)等(deng)(deng),并(bing)根據當(dang)(dang)(dang)時(shi)(shi)接觸到的(de)(de)許(xu)多現實(shi)(shi)問(wen)題,對其中一(yi)(yi)些(xie)文(wen)章加作旁(pang)注,表達了(le)(le)(le)編(bian)者(zhe)的(de)(de)政(zheng)治(zhi)(zhi)主(zhu)張。陳(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍等(deng)(deng)人編(bian)輯此書的(de)(de)動(dong)機和目的(de)(de),是(shi)(shi)為了(le)(le)(le)“上(shang)以(yi)備一(yi)(yi)代之(zhi)(zhi)典則,下以(yi)資后(hou)學(xue)(xue)之(zhi)(zhi)師(shi)法”,試圖(tu)通過(guo)自己的(de)(de)努力,扭轉“俗儒(ru)是(shi)(shi)古而(er)非(fei)今,擷華而(er)舍(she)實(shi)(shi)”,不務實(shi)(shi)際的(de)(de)壞風氣。它(ta)是(shi)(shi)一(yi)(yi)部“從(cong)歷史(shi)實(shi)(shi)際出(chu)發,總結了(le)(le)(le)明(ming)朝兩百幾十(shi)年統治(zhi)(zhi)經(jing)(jing)(jing)驗,企(qi)圖(tu)從(cong)中得出(chu)教訓,用(yong)以(yi)改(gai)變當(dang)(dang)(dang)前現實(shi)(shi)、經(jing)(jing)(jing)世致用(yong)之(zhi)(zhi)書。這(zhe)部書的(de)(de)編(bian)輯出(chu)版,對當(dang)(dang)(dang)時(shi)(shi)的(de)(de)文(wen)風、學(xue)(xue)風是(shi)(shi)一(yi)(yi)個嚴(yan)重(zhong)的(de)(de)挑戰,對稍后(hou)黃宗羲、顧炎(yan)武等(deng)(deng)人講求(qiu)經(jing)(jing)(jing)世實(shi)(shi)用(yong)之(zhi)(zhi)學(xue)(xue),也(ye)起了(le)(le)(le)先行的(de)(de)作用(yong)”。
繼后,陳子龍(long)整(zheng)理了(le)徐(xu)光啟的(de)農(nong)學(xue)巨著《農(nong)政(zheng)全(quan)書》。徐(xu)光啟負經(jing)世(shi)(shi)之(zhi)(zhi)志(zhi),“其(qi)生(sheng)平所(suo)學(xue),博究(jiu)天人,而皆主(zhu)(zhu)于(yu)實(shi)用(yong)。至于(yu)農(nong)事(shi),尤所(suo)用(yong)心。蓋(gai)以為(wei)(wei)生(sheng)民率(lv)育之(zhi)(zhi)源,國家富強(qiang)之(zhi)(zhi)本(ben)(ben)”。對于(yu)徐(xu)光啟的(de)為(wei)(wei)人和學(xue)問,陳子龍(long)向(xiang)來是十(shi)(shi)分敬佩(pei)的(de),早年曾到(dao)北京拜訪他,“問當世(shi)(shi)之(zhi)(zhi)務(wu)”。徐(xu)光啟謝世(shi)(shi)后,陳子龍(long)從其(qi)次孫徐(xu)爾爵處得(de)《農(nong)書》草稿數十(shi)(shi)卷,日夜抄(chao)錄。崇禎十(shi)(shi)二年(1639年),“慨然以富國化民之(zhi)(zhi)本(ben)(ben)在是,遂刪其(qi)繁蕪(wu),補其(qi)缺(que)略”。“大約刪者十(shi)(shi)之(zhi)(zhi)三,增者十(shi)(shi)之(zhi)(zhi)二”,燦然成(cheng)《農(nong)政(zheng)全(quan)書》六十(shi)(shi)卷。并作《凡例》,概述(shu)《農(nong)政(zheng)全(quan)書》基本(ben)(ben)宗旨、各篇主(zhu)(zhu)要內(nei)容、思想淵源和徐(xu)光啟的(de)獨到(dao)見(jian)解。同(tong)時(shi)抒發了(le)他本(ben)(ben)人的(de)社會經(jing)濟(ji)主(zhu)(zhu)張。編輯《皇明經(jing)世(shi)(shi)文(wen)編》和整(zheng)理《農(nong)政(zheng)全(quan)書》,是陳子龍(long)一生(sheng)中在經(jing)世(shi)(shi)實(shi)用(yong)方面兩項最(zui)主(zhu)(zhu)要的(de)貢獻。從中也可(ke)以看出他對“經(jing)世(shi)(shi)”,即現實(shi)社會經(jing)濟(ji)問題,特別(bie)是農(nong)業生(sheng)產是何等的(de)重視。
此(ci)后(hou),陳子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)曾一度“欲絕仕(shi)宦”,在(zai)(zai)家“廣其宅,示無志四方也”。然而,面對(dui)著明(ming)末(mo)農民(min)大起(qi)義的(de)(de)燎(liao)原之勢(shi)和清(qing)軍(jun)的(de)(de)步(bu)步(bu)進逼,為(wei)(wei)挽救明(ming)朝國運,最終還是(shi)(shi)放棄(qi)個(ge)人打(da)算(suan),于(yu)(yu)崇(chong)(chong)禎(zhen)十(shi)三年(nian)(1640)六(liu)月(yue),出(chu)任浙(zhe)江(jiang)(jiang)紹(shao)興府司(si)理,不久開始兼代理諸暨知縣。在(zai)(zai)官(guan)之日,由于(yu)(yu)他的(de)(de)轄(xia)區連(lian)年(nian)水患成災,饑(ji)民(min)蜂起(qi),為(wei)(wei)了維護當(dang)地社(she)會穩定(ding),他剛柔(rou)并用(yong),剿(jiao)(jiao)撫兼施,一邊(bian)“力行保甲,設互首之法,申連(lian)坐之令(ling)”,平定(ding)饑(ji)民(min)暴(bao)動(dong)(dong);一邊(bian)親司(si)賑事,救濟饑(ji)民(min),立粥(zhou)廠,設藥局,養老幼(you),醫(yi)病疾,收死骨,救活(huo)十(shi)幾萬人。十(shi)五年(nian)(1642年(nian))五月(yue),在(zai)(zai)浙(zhe)江(jiang)(jiang)巡撫董(dong)(dong)象(xiang)恒(heng)節制下,陳子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)督撫標兵(bing)千余(yu)人到浙(zhe)江(jiang)(jiang)遂昌縣,積極參加浙(zhe)、贛(gan)、閩三省會剿(jiao)(jiao),平定(ding)多年(nian)來活(huo)動(dong)(dong)在(zai)(zai)三省交界處的(de)(de)福(fu)建(jian)汀州人邱凌霄父子(zi)(zi)為(wei)(wei)首的(de)(de)山民(min)暴(bao)動(dong)(dong)。崇(chong)(chong)禎(zhen)十(shi)六(liu)年(nian)春(chun),李自成起(qi)義軍(jun)破(po)承德,南京(jing)大震。他受董(dong)(dong)象(xiang)恒(heng)委(wei)派負責籌劃(hua)軍(jun)備,在(zai)(zai)余(yu)杭等地筑關建(jian)臺(tai),整修城池,鑄炮儲硝,并督運軍(jun)糧入南京(jing)。崇(chong)(chong)禎(zhen)十(shi)七年(nian)初,陳子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)因招撫浙(zhe)江(jiang)(jiang)東陽(yang)縣諸生許(xu)都(dou)暴(bao)動(dong)(dong)有(you)(you)功,授兵(bing)科給(gei)事中。但(dan)許(xu)都(dou)投降后(hou),由于(yu)(yu)浙(zhe)江(jiang)(jiang)巡按(an)左光先不顧陳子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)的(de)(de)再三要(yao)求,違(wei)背當(dang)初許(xu)下的(de)(de)只要(yao)許(xu)都(dou)自縛來降,“當(dang)待以不死”的(de)(de)諾言,在(zai)(zai)許(xu)都(dou)率眾出(chu)山投降之后(hou)將許(xu)都(dou)及部眾六(liu)十(shi)余(yu)人殺死。對(dui)此(ci),陳子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)很是(shi)(shi)不滿;又聞祖母病甚篤,便沒有(you)(you)去赴任,于(yu)(yu)三月(yue)乞身歸里。
崇禎(zhen)十七年,李(li)自成攻(gong)破北京,崇禎(zhen)帝(di)自縊身亡(wang)。明朝(chao)(chao)滅(mie)(mie)亡(wang)。緊接著(zhu)吳三桂引清(qing)軍入關,李(li)自成潰敗。陳子(zi)龍正準備北上時(shi),聽到(dao)(dao)崇禎(zhen)死訊。不(bu)久(jiu)后,福王朱由崧在(zai)南京監國(guo)(guo),不(bu)久(jiu)后稱(cheng)帝(di),即(ji)史上之弘光(guang)政權。陳子(zi)龍在(zai)黃道(dao)周(zhou)的(de)推薦下,以崇禎(zhen)時(shi)授(shou)的(de)兵科(ke)(ke)給事(shi)中職(zhi)務在(zai)弘光(guang)朝(chao)(chao)廷(ting)任職(zhi)。兵科(ke)(ke)給事(shi)中雖(sui)然(ran)只是(shi)七品,但是(shi)可以直議國(guo)(guo)防要務,陳子(zi)龍在(zai)朝(chao)(chao)50多(duo)天,上書30多(duo)次(ci)(ci),提出(chu)大量有價值(zhi)的(de)建議,但是(shi)弘光(guang)帝(di)沉溺酒(jiu)色,無心復國(guo)(guo),只求偏安。陳子(zi)龍對朝(chao)(chao)政失望(wang)之極,同時(shi)由于自己的(de)直言觸犯了馬士英、阮(ruan)大鋮等人(ren),受到(dao)(dao)排擠,因此借(jie)故辭職(zhi)回(hui)鄉(xiang)。次(ci)(ci)年清(qing)軍在(zai)漢奸將(jiang)領協助下,迅速南下。弘光(guang)朝(chao)(chao)覆滅(mie)(mie),福王喪命。
辭職后,陳(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)避(bi)地泖(mao)濱。有(you)舊友陳(chen)(chen)(chen)洪范(fan)時已降清(qing),派人招撫(fu)他(ta)和夏(xia)允(yun)彝(yi),夏(xia)允(yun)彝(yi)抗辭答之(zhi)(zhi),陳(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)則避(bi)而(er)不見。又有(you)故(gu)明參將(jiang)洪恩(en)炳,與(yu)(yu)(yu)陳(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)“素執(zhi)弟子(zi)禮”,亦(yi)降清(qing),自稱“安撫(fu)使(shi)”路過松(song)江求見,陳(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)亦(yi)拒之(zhi)(zhi)門外,矢志(zhi)堅持抗清(qing)立場(chang)。閏六月,江南(nan)各(ge)郡“競(jing)起兵(bing)(bing)為恢復計”,組織義軍,掀起轟(hong)轟(hong)烈烈的抗清(qing)運動。松(song)江府籍的故(gu)明官(guan)員(yuan)也同(tong)樣在城內募兵(bing)(bing)抗清(qing)。這(zhe)時,陳(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)與(yu)(yu)(yu)徐(xu)孚(fu)遠及陳(chen)(chen)(chen)湖(hu)義士集眾千(qian)余人駐扎陳(chen)(chen)(chen)湖(hu),伺機起兵(bing)(bing)。夏(xia)允(yun)彝(yi)致書(shu)聯絡吳(wu)(wu)淞副總兵(bing)(bing)吳(wu)(wu)志(zhi)葵(kui)、參將(jiang)魯之(zhi)(zhi)玙率水(shui)(shui)(shui)(shui)師(shi)(shi)(shi)三(san)千(qian)自吳(wu)(wu)淞入(ru)泖(mao)湖(hu),總兵(bing)(bing)官(guan)黃蜚率船千(qian)艘、水(shui)(shui)(shui)(shui)師(shi)(shi)(shi)二萬人由(you)無錫到此會(hui)合(he)。是月初十日,陳(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)設明太祖像誓(shi)師(shi)(shi)(shi)起義,原明兩(liang)廣(guang)總督沈猶龍(long)(long)(long)稱總督兵(bing)(bing)部尚書(shu),陳(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)稱監(jian)軍左給事中,軍號(hao)“振武”。陳(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)所集義兵(bing)(bing),雖有(you)千(qian)余之(zhi)(zhi)眾,但“餉(xiang)無所辦”,且多泖(mao)濱漁人,不知紀律(lv),未嘗(chang)作(zuo)戰,甚不堪(kan)用,與(yu)(yu)(yu)吳(wu)(wu)志(zhi)葵(kui)水(shui)(shui)(shui)(shui)師(shi)(shi)(shi)進攻蘇州失(shi)敗。黃蜚不聽陳(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)的勸阻(zu),將(jiang)二萬水(shui)(shui)(shui)(shui)師(shi)(shi)(shi)移營黃浦(pu)江,因沿途水(shui)(shui)(shui)(shui)道狹隘,不利旋轉(zhuan),單(dan)行數十里,首尾不相應(ying),僅支(zhi)撐兩(liang)月,亦(yi)被(bei)清(qing)軍擊敗。八月三(san)日,松(song)江城陷,沈猶龍(long)(long)(long)等皆(jie)陣亡。陳(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)在城西遇清(qing)兵(bing)(bing),得逃脫,攜(xie)家(jia)走昆山。夏(xia)允(yun)彝(yi)投水(shui)(shui)(shui)(shui)死。繼而(er),陳(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)避(bi)難(nan)青浦(pu)縣(xian)金澤,最后隱(yin)姓埋(mai)名入(ru)嘉善縣(xian)陶莊水(shui)(shui)(shui)(shui)月庵,托(tuo)為禪僧(seng),取名信衷,字瓢粟(su),號(hao)潁川明逸(yi)。在此,他(ta)與(yu)(yu)(yu)庵僧(seng)衍門同(tong)研佛學,并完成自撰《年譜》。
弘光元(yuan)年六月,魯王(wang)朱以(yi)海監國(guo)于紹(shao)興。閏六月,唐(tang)王(wang)朱聿鍵(jian)稱號(hao)于福州。魯王(wang)命陳子龍為兵部尚書,節(jie)制七省軍漕;唐(tang)王(wang)授其兵部左侍郎(lang)、左都御史。
五月,陳子(zi)龍監臨吳易義師。陳子(zi)龍見(jian)其“輕敵,幕(mu)客皆輕薄之(zhi)士,諸將惟事剽掠而已,師眾不(bu)整”,“軍紀日弛”,遂(sui)與(yu)之(zhi)斷絕關系(xi)。至秋天,吳易被(bei)清(qing)軍殺害,義軍失敗。此(ci)時(shi)(shi)陳子(zi)龍因為匡(kuang)復大業不(bu)成,經(jing)常沈(shen)憂咤嘆(tan),至廢寢興。及(ji)聞浙東、福州失守(shou),“志不(bu)欲生,孤(gu)筇單幞,混跡(ji)緇流(liu)”。泣然曰(yue):“茫(mang)茫(mang)天地(di)將安(an)之(zhi)乎,惟有(you)營(ying)葬(zang)大母歸死(si)先壟耳。”即于七月遣家歸里,十一月,殯葬(zang)祖母于廣富林(lin)。并作長書(shu)《報(bao)夏考公書(shu)》焚夏允(yun)彝(yi)墓(mu)前(qian),“述(shu)己所以未死(si)之(zhi)故,期不(bu)負夏公”。南明昭宗(zong)永歷(li)元年(1647年)初,在廣富林(lin)家居時(shi)(shi),念生平(ping)知(zhi)友如夏允(yun)彝(yi)輩一時(shi)(shi)零落殆盡,周立勛之(zhi)死(si)亦已數年,而喪(sang)未舉,慨(kai)然曰(yue):“我(wo)死(si),誰為了此(ci)事者。”遂(sui)捐(juan)地(di)葬(zang)之(zhi)。三月,會葬(zang)夏允(yun)彝(yi),陳子(zi)龍賦(fu)詩《會葬(zang)夏瑗公》二章,又作《寒(han)食》、《清(qing)明》二詞(ci),此(ci)系(xi)其絕筆。
提(ti)督吳(wu)勝(sheng)兆(zhao),遼東人,跟著清軍來到江南。1647年四(si)月,吳(wu)勝(sheng)兆(zhao)因受排(pai)擠,密謀策劃反正(zheng),他的部下戴之(zhi)儁是陳子(zi)龍的舊識,積極支持吳(wu)勝(sheng)兆(zhao)起兵,私訪陳子(zi)龍,一再(zai)請求陳子(zi)龍寫信(xin)聯絡南明舟(zhou)山守將黃斌卿率舟(zhou)師為外應。
據(ju)陳(chen)子龍學生王沄(yun)后(hou)來(lai)記載,陳(chen)子龍認(ren)為:黃(huang)等(deng)“虛聲寡(gua)信,事(shi)必不濟”,沒(mei)有答(da)應戴的要求,并說(shuo):“海舶往來(lai),不乏信使,你(ni)等(deng)好自(zi)為之,我決不阻攔”。戴即離去(qu),“自(zi)是(shi)不復相聞(wen)矣”。
但是,據陳子龍(long)生前(qian)友(you)人宋征(zheng)輿記載,陳子龍(long)當時慨然(ran)應允,親手寫信聯系黃斌卿,積極參與(yu)起義。
兩種說法中,以(yi)宋(song)的(de)說法更為可靠,因為王沄續寫陳(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)年譜(pu)時(shi),為不給陳(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)遺孀和后(hou)代招來(lai)麻煩,所以(yi)故意在描述(shu)中否認陳(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)參與(yu)起義。而宋(song)征輿回憶時(shi)未曾考慮(lv)這一(yi)點,因此(ci)直言不諱。
十六日(ri)(ri)(ri),吳(wu)勝兆未舉兵(bing)而事泄被(bei)(bei)(bei)捕,入獄窮治。清(qing)軍(jun)污蔑陳(chen)子(zi)龍與吳(wu)“共謀”,遣(qian)兵(bing)捕之(zhi)。陳(chen)子(zi)龍逃(tao)往(wang)蘇(su)(su)州,易姓李,改字(zi)大樽(zun)。當時(shi)清(qing)軍(jun)江(jiang)寧將軍(jun)巴(ba)山、都御史陳(chen)錦和江(jiang)寧巡(xun)撫土國寶(bao)陰謀乘吳(wu)勝兆事,“盡除三吳(wu)知名之(zhi)士”,而以(yi)陳(chen)子(zi)龍為首。五(wu)月(yue)初(chu),他們派出(chu)士兵(bing)五(wu)百,在蘇(su)(su)松一帶大肆搜捕達五(wu)六日(ri)(ri)(ri)之(zhi)久(jiu),最后陳(chen)子(zi)龍在吳(wu)縣被(bei)(bei)(bei)捕。巴(ba)山等人對他進行(xing)審訊,他“植(zhi)立不屈,神色不變”。陳(chen)錦問(wen)(wen)他為何(he)(he)官?曰(yue):“我崇禎朝(chao)兵(bing)科(ke)給事中也(ye)。”又(you)問(wen)(wen):“何(he)(he)不剃(ti)發(fa)?”曰(yue):“吾惟留此發(fa),以(yi)見先帝于(yu)地下也(ye)。”又(you)問(wen)(wen),陳(chen)子(zi)龍凜然挺立,拒不回答。乃執之(zhi)舟中,令卒守之(zhi)。五(wu)月(yue)十三日(ri)(ri)(ri),陳(chen)子(zi)龍被(bei)(bei)(bei)押往(wang)南京,在途中經松江(jiang)境(jing)內跨塘橋時(shi),他乘守者(zhe)不備,突(tu)然投水以(yi)死,撈起時(shi)已經氣絕,清(qing)軍(jun)還殘暴地將其凌遲斬首,棄尸水中。時(shi)年(nian)四十歲。次日(ri)(ri)(ri),陳(chen)子(zi)龍門(men)生王沄、轎夫吳(wu)酉等在毛竹港找(zhao)到他的遺體,具棺埋葬。
明(ming)(ming)清易代之(zhi)際(ji),陳(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍以其特出之(zhi)才(cai)情文(wen)(wen)章與(yu)錚錚之(zhi)民(min)族氣節(jie)成為當(dang)時(shi)文(wen)(wen)人(ren)(ren)之(zhi)代表、明(ming)(ming)末清初江南(nan)風(feng)云人(ren)(ren)物、文(wen)(wen)壇(tan)盟主,《明(ming)(ming)史》本傳稱其“生有異才(cai),工舉子(zi)(zi)業(ye),兼治詩賦古文(wen)(wen),取法魏、晉,駢體尤精(jing)妙”。陳(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍領袖云間派(云間詞派與(yu)云間詩派),對(dui)明(ming)(ming)末清初詩詞振興形成巨大影(ying)響,流風(feng)余韻(yun)波及身后近半個世(shi)紀。陳(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍在詩、詞、駢文(wen)(wen)、散(san)文(wen)(wen)均卓然自成一(yi)家,是明(ming)(ming)清二代最多才(cai)多藝的作家之(zhi)一(yi),又由其高尚的人(ren)(ren)格(ge)、不屈的風(feng)骨,而為當(dang)世(shi)以及后世(shi)敬仰,其人(ren)(ren)文(wen)(wen)章氣節(jie),皆堪稱后人(ren)(ren)楷模。
陳(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)為(wei)明(ming)末(mo)清初三大(da)詩(shi)(shi)人之一(yi),與(yu)錢謙益、吳偉業齊名(ming)(但(dan)錢、吳二人在(zai)詞與(yu)駢文(wen)方面都不及(ji)陳(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long))。其詩(shi)(shi)學思想追慕六(liu)朝、盛(sheng)唐,倡導明(ming)七子(zi)(zi)復(fu)(fu)古(gu)主張(zhang),但(dan)其詩(shi)(shi)歌(ge)創作尤其是中后期(qi)詩(shi)(shi)歌(ge)創作旨在(zai)繼(ji)承(cheng)盛(sheng)唐詩(shi)(shi)歌(ge)創作反映現(xian)實的(de)精神,特別強調文(wen)學創作的(de)社會意義(yi),所以其詩(shi)(shi)感慨時事,關心民生,雄深豪邁,沉(chen)郁(yu)頓挫,蒼勁之色與(yu)節(jie)義(yi)相符,同時文(wen)辭(ci)華(hua)美、音(yin)韻鏗(keng)鏘,浸透著憂國憂民的(de)真摯情懷(huai)與(yu)高尚的(de)愛國節(jie)操,是結束明(ming)代(dai)復(fu)(fu)古(gu)派詩(shi)(shi)歌(ge)創作的(de)最后一(yi)個大(da)詩(shi)(shi)人,被(bei)公認為(wei)“明(ming)詩(shi)(shi)殿軍”。
陳(chen)(chen)子龍早期詩歌多摹(mo)古之作,但是也已經有大(da)量創(chuang)新,隨著時局(ju)的(de)變化(hua),尤(you)其是明亡前后,在(zai)家國(guo)陵夷、滄桑劇(ju)變的(de)特定時代環境(jing)感(gan)促下,詩風有較(jiao)大(da)改變,摹(mo)古習氣也幾(ji)乎消(xiao)失,憂時念亂(luan)的(de)沉痛情感(gan)注入詩中,顯得(de)悲勁蒼涼(liang),而(er)又辭藻華麗,音韻鏗鏘,具有很強的(de)感(gan)染力。陳(chen)(chen)子龍各體皆工,尤(you)其是他的(de)七律與七言(yan)(yan)古詩,更(geng)為(wei)后人稱道,這(zhe)些七律與七言(yan)(yan)古詩,大(da)多寫于勤(qin)勞(lao)國(guo)事、戎馬倥傯(zong)之際,表達了他對(dui)時局(ju)的(de)關切,悲涼(liang)慷慨(kai),酣暢(chang)淋漓。
陳子龍(long)詩(shi)(shi)歌(ge)(ge)雖受“前后七子”影(ying)響,但是能夠擺脫(tuo)“詩(shi)(shi)必(bi)盛(sheng)唐”之窠(ke)臼,兼(jian)學齊梁麗藻、初唐四(si)杰(jie)音韻和盛(sheng)唐格調,對晚唐詩(shi)(shi)歌(ge)(ge)之秾麗特征(zheng)也有一定(ding)吸收,這些要素配合其(qi)過人(ren)才(cai)氣,使其(qi)詩(shi)(shi)歌(ge)(ge)與“前后七子”大不相同,因此乾隆年間著(zhu)名(ming)詩(shi)(shi)人(ren)和詩(shi)(shi)歌(ge)(ge)評論家趙翼全面否(fou)決“前后七子”卻(que)對陳子龍(long)詩(shi)(shi)歌(ge)(ge)予(yu)以(yi)相當高的評價,認(ren)為陳子龍(long)的詩(shi)(shi)論“意(yi)理(li)粗疏處(chu),尚未免英雄欺(qi)人(ren)”,卻(que)不得(de)不承認(ren)他“沉雄瑰麗,實(shi)未易才(cai)”。
明(ming)代詩(shi)(shi)(shi)歌自高(gao)啟去(qu)世之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)后就陷入了長期(qi)的低迷狀態,陳(chen)子龍崛起于(yu)東南文壇,不(bu)(bu)僅終結了明(ming)朝詩(shi)(shi)(shi)歌藝術近三百(bai)年的衰微狀態,而(er)且也(ye)是開創清(qing)初詩(shi)(shi)(shi)歌抒寫性情、反映(ying)現實新風較早的一個大(da)詩(shi)(shi)(shi)人(ren)。清(qing)代康熙年間著名詩(shi)(shi)(shi)人(ren)、詞人(ren)朱彝尊在編選《明(ming)詩(shi)(shi)(shi)綜》,高(gao)度評(ping)價(jia)陳(chen)子龍在恢復詩(shi)(shi)(shi)歌大(da)雅(ya)傳(chuan)統的功(gong)績:“王李教衰,公(gong)安之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)派浸廣,竟陵之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)焰頓(dun)興,一時好異者,诪張為幻。關中(zhong)文太(tai)清(qing)倡堅偽離奇之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)言,致刪(shan)改《三百(bai)篇(pian)》之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)章句;山陰(yin)王季重寄謔浪笑傲之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)體,不(bu)(bu)免綠衣蒼鶻之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)儀容(rong)。如帝釋(shi)既(ji)遠,修羅(luo)藥叉,交起搏戰(zhan),日輪就暝,鵩(fu)子鶚(e)母,四野群飛(fei)。臥子張以太(tai)陰(yin)之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)弓(gong),射以枉(wang)矢,腰鼓百(bai)面,破盡(jin)蒼蠅蟋蟀之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)聲,其功(gong)不(bu)(bu)可沒也(ye)。”
對于陳子龍在詩歌方面正本清源(yuan)的作用,錢瞻百也有類似評價:“大樽(陳子龍)當(dang)詩學(xue)榛蕪之(zhi)余,力辟正始,一時宗尚,遂(sui)使群才(cai)蔚起,與弘、正比隆,摧廓振興之(zhi)功(gong),斯為極(ji)矣。”
繆天自(zi)持(chi)類(lei)似觀點:“剝極(ji)而反,否極(ji)而復(fu),先征于(yu)聲音之道,臥(wo)子(zi)當(dang)楚人眾咻(xiu)之余,力追正始,允矣人豪(hao)。”
龔蘅(heng)圃則針對那些將陳子龍與前后(hou)七(qi)子一(yi)并批評者提出見解:“若詩(shi)當(dang)公安、竟陵之(zhi)后(hou),雅音漸亡,曼(man)聲并作(zuo),大樽力返于(yu)正(zheng),翦其榛蕪(wu)荊棘(ji),驅其狐貍(li)貒貉,廓清(qing)之(zhi)功,詎可借口七(qi)子流派,并攢譏及焉?”
康熙(xi)年間詩(shi)(shi)壇領袖王士禛(與朱(zhu)彝尊并稱“南朱(zhu)北王”)更是對(dui)陳子龍的(de)詩(shi)(shi)歌(ge)推崇備至,在《香祖(zu)筆記》中評(ping)價(jia)其詩(shi)(shi):“沉雄(xiong)瑰麗,近(jin)代(dai)作者未見其比,殆冠古之(zhi)(zhi)才。一(yi)時瑜亮,獨有(you)梅(mei)村(cun)(吳偉業)耳(er)。”陳子龍在結合(he)齊梁(liang)與三唐風(feng)格方(fang)面(mian)的(de)努力深刻影響了(le)同時代(dai)的(de)大詩(shi)(shi)人吳偉業。吳偉業初(chu)學(xue)宋枚(mei),以杜甫詩(shi)(shi)歌(ge)質樸一(yi)面(mian)為宗(zong),后(hou)在陳子龍影響下,全面(mian)吸收齊梁(liang)與初(chu)唐四杰之(zhi)(zhi)詩(shi)(shi)風(feng),結合(he)白居(ju)易等人之(zhi)(zhi)敘(xu)事(shi)詩(shi)(shi)風(feng)格,融入傳奇小說筆法,終(zhong)成自具面(mian)目之(zhi)(zhi)“梅(mei)村(cun)體”,對(dui)清代(dai)詩(shi)(shi)歌(ge)造成深遠(yuan)影響。
清同治年間(jian)詩(shi)人朱彭年賦(fu)詩(shi)評價吳偉業:“妙年詞賦(fu)黃(huang)(huang)門亞,復社云間(jian)孰繼(ji)聲?一自鼎(ding)湖(hu)龍去后,興亡凄絕庾蘭成(cheng)”。此詩(shi)認為吳偉業詩(shi)繼(ji)承(cheng)了明(ming)末(mo)云間(jian)詩(shi)派陳子(zi)(zi)龍之風格。(按:黃(huang)(huang)門,陳子(zi)(zi)龍曾任兵科給事(shi)中,黃(huang)(huang)門是“給事(shi)中”代(dai)稱。)
后代學(xue)者(zhe)所論述的“梅村體”的五大(da)特(te)征(zheng)即(ji)詩史(shi)特(te)則、頻繁(fan)轉韻、歌行(xing)中(zhong)多(duo)用律句(ju)、用典較(jiao)多(duo)、敘事(shi)特(te)征(zheng),其(qi)中(zhong)四(si)大(da)特(te)征(zheng)都可以(yi)在陳(chen)子(zi)龍(long)七(qi)言(yan)歌行(xing)中(zhong)找到。這(zhe)四(si)個特(te)征(zheng)在初唐四(si)杰(jie)的詩歌中(zhong)已經(jing)基本具備(bei)(如初唐四(si)杰(jie)之(zhi)一的盧照(zhao)鄰(lin),其(qi)名篇《長(chang)安古意》,富麗精工(gong),典雅絕倫,除詩史(shi)特(te)征(zheng)不夠明(ming)顯外(wai),已經(jing)完全具備(bei)以(yi)上所說(shuo)四(si)大(da)特(te)征(zheng)),陳(chen)子(zi)龍(long)是(shi)(shi)直接繼承者(zhe),然后影(ying)響了吳偉業。必須強(qiang)調的是(shi)(shi),明(ming)代中(zhong)期(qi)何景明(ming)在好友楊慎影(ying)響下也已經(jing)涉足這(zhe)類作(zuo)品(見《明(ming)月(yue)篇》并序)。
陳子龍(long)(long)(long)(long)與(yu)吳偉(wei)業(ye)(ye)的(de)歌(ge)行(xing)在以上四個方面難分伯仲,陳子龍(long)(long)(long)(long)勝(sheng)在雄麗有骨,吳偉(wei)業(ye)(ye)勝(sheng)在高超的(de)“敘(xu)(xu)(xu)事”風格(ge)。陳子龍(long)(long)(long)(long)的(de)敘(xu)(xu)(xu)事詩(shi)(shi)仍然以唐代之前(qian)敘(xu)(xu)(xu)事詩(shi)(shi)風格(ge)為宗且數量極少(如《大梁行(xing)》、《紫玉(yu)歌(ge)》),而吳偉(wei)業(ye)(ye)則基本上依賴敘(xu)(xu)(xu)事詩(shi)(shi)成(cheng)名,敘(xu)(xu)(xu)事風格(ge)不僅熔(rong)鑄(zhu)了白居易等人的(de)“長慶體”,而且采用插敘(xu)(xu)(xu)、倒(dao)敘(xu)(xu)(xu)等一(yi)系列(lie)明清小說和(he)戲(xi)劇中(zhong)具有的(de)敘(xu)(xu)(xu)事技巧(qiao),從而自成(cheng)新吟,成(cheng)為婁(lou)東派首領,與(yu)云間(jian)派首領陳子龍(long)(long)(long)(long)、虞山(shan)派首領錢謙益在明末清初詩(shi)(shi)壇鼎足而三。
陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)(zi)龍(long)殉國(guo)多年之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)后(hou)之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)后(hou),吳偉業仍(reng)在《梅村詩(shi)(shi)(shi)話》中(zhong)(zhong)評價(jia)陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)(zi)龍(long):“臥(wo)子(zi)(zi)(zi)(陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)(zi)龍(long))負曠世逸才(cai)……。其(qi)四六跨徐(xu)、庾,論策視(shi)二蘇,詩(shi)(shi)(shi)特高(gao)華雄渾,睥睨一世。……當是時,幾社名(ming)聞天(tian)下(xia)(xia)。臥(wo)子(zi)(zi)(zi)眼光(guang)奕奕,意(yi)氣籠罩千人(ren),見(jian)者莫不(bu)辟(pi)易。登臨贈答(da),淋漓(li)慷慨(kai),雖百世后(hou)猶想見(jian)其(qi)人(ren)也。”并且回憶二人(ren)在京城論詩(shi)(shi)(shi)情景:“嘗(chang)與(yu)余(yu)宿(su)京邸(di),夜(ye)半謂余(yu)曰:‘卿(qing)詩(shi)(shi)(shi)絕(jue)似李(li)頎。’又(you)(you)誦余(yu)《雒陽行》一篇,謂為合作。余(yu)曰:‘卿(qing)詩(shi)(shi)(shi)固佳,何首為第(di)一?’臥(wo)子(zi)(zi)(zi)曰:‘“苑內起山名(ming)萬歲,閣中(zhong)(zhong)新戲(xi)號千秋(qiu)”,此余(yu)中(zhong)(zhong)聯得意(yi)語(yu)也。“祠(ci)官流涕松(song)風路,回首長陵出塞年”,又(you)(you)“李(li)氏功(gong)名(ming)猶帶礪,斷垣(yuan)落日海云黃”,此余(yu)結法可(ke)(ke)誦者也。’余(yu)贊嘆(tan)久之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)。晚(wan)歲與(yu)夏(xia)考功(gong)相期死(si)國(guo)事(shi),考功(gong)先赴(fu)水死(si),臥(wo)子(zi)(zi)(zi)為書報考功(gong)于地下(xia)(xia),誓必相從,文絕(jue)可(ke)(ke)觀。……”對(dui)于陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)(zi)龍(long)詩(shi)(shi)(shi)歌成(cheng)就,著名(ming)學者錢鐘書先生在《談藝錄》中(zhong)(zhong)有過中(zhong)(zhong)肯評價(jia):“陳(chen)(chen)臥(wo)子(zi)(zi)(zi)大才(cai)健筆,足殿明詩(shi)(shi)(shi)而無愧,又(you)(you)丁(ding)百六陽九之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)會,天(tian)意(yi)昌詩(shi)(shi)(shi),宜若可(ke)(ke)以(yi)悲壯蒼涼,上繼簡齋、遺山之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)學杜(du)”,以(yi)“天(tian)意(yi)昌詩(shi)(shi)(shi)”評價(jia)陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)(zi)龍(long)為代(dai)表(biao)的(de)烈士詩(shi)(shi)(shi)人(ren)與(yu)遺民詩(shi)(shi)(shi)人(ren)之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)出現,足見(jian)評價(jia)之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)高(gao)。
在《談藝錄》中(zhong)(zhong),錢(qian)鐘(zhong)書先生還對陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍一(yi)些(xie)詩歌名聯進行匯總:“陳(chen)(chen)臥子(zi)結有明三百年(nian)唐詩之局,其名聯如‘禹陵風(feng)雨思(si)王(wang)會,越國山(shan)川出(chu)霸才’(《錢(qian)塘東(dong)望(wang)》)‘左徒舊(jiu)宅猶蘭(lan)圃,中(zhong)(zhong)散荒園尚竹林’(《重游弇園》)‘九天星(xing)宿開(kai)秦(qin)塞(sai),萬國梯航(hang)走冀(ji)方’(《送張玉笥》)及《香祖(zu)筆(bi)記》卷二所稱之‘四塞(sai)山(shan)河歸漢關,二陵風(feng)雨送秦(qin)師(shi)’,‘石顯上(shang)賓居柳市,竇嬰別業在藍田。’皆(jie)比(bi)類人地(di),為撐(cheng)拄開(kai)闔。