陳(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)祖上世代務(wu)農,父(fu)(fu)親(qin)陳(chen)所(suo)聞,以(yi)文學(xue)(xue)(xue)名(ming)江南,萬歷四(si)十七年(nian)中進士(shi),官至刑、工兩部(bu)侍郎。陳(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)于(yu)萬歷三(san)十六(liu)年(nian)六(liu)月初(chu)一出生(sheng),父(fu)(fu)親(qin)為(wei)(wei)其取名(ming)為(wei)(wei)介(jie)。不久(jiu)后(hou),其母告(gao)訴其父(fu)(fu),在生(sheng)子(zi)(zi)當晚,夢見房間壁上有龍(long)出現,“蜿蜒有光”,其父(fu)(fu)因此改其名(ming)為(wei)(wei)“子(zi)(zi)龍(long)”。五歲時,生(sheng)母病逝,使其受到很大打擊。六(liu)歲入學(xue)(xue)(xue),勤(qin)治經史,力(li)(li)攻(gong)章句。天啟三(san)年(nian)(1623年(nian)),十六(liu)歲的(de)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)舉童(tong)子(zi)(zi)試(shi),縣(xian)試(shi)中名(ming)居(ju)第二,府(fu)試(shi)也位居(ju)高等,但(dan)在院試(shi)中落選。次(ci)年(nian)再(zai)次(ci)在院試(shi)中落選,直到十八歲時,第三(san)次(ci)參(can)加童(tong)子(zi)(zi)試(shi),才獲得(de)成(cheng)功,成(cheng)為(wei)(wei)生(sheng)員(“秀才”)。時大批廷臣因為(wei)(wei)反對魏忠(zhong)賢(xian),紛紛被削(xue)職為(wei)(wei)民(min)或(huo)逮之(zhi)獄死。陳(chen)所(suo)聞告(gao)病在家,每(mei)閱邸報(bao),扼腕嘆息(xi),教陳(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)剖析邪正,明辨是非。天啟五年(nian)(1625年(nian)),他先后(hou)與(yu)本郡夏(xia)允彝、徐(xu)孚遠、周立(li)勛、宋征璧以(yi)及蘇州、嘉興等府(fu)的(de)一些文人學(xue)(xue)(xue)士(shi)結為(wei)(wei)好友,切磋學(xue)(xue)(xue)術,議論時務(wu),后(hou)來大都成(cheng)為(wei)(wei)明季江南黨社運動的(de)骨干分子(zi)(zi)。天啟六(liu)年(nian)(1626年(nian)),補松江府(fu)學(xue)(xue)(xue)生(sheng)員。父(fu)(fu)親(qin)病歿(mo),居(ju)家守孝,閉(bi)門不出,博覽群(qun)書,尤(you)其致力(li)(li)于(yu)古文詞。
崇(chong)(chong)禎元年(nian)(1628年(nian)),陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)二十(shi)(shi)一歲,與湖廣寶慶府邵(shao)陽知(zhi)(zhi)縣張(zhang)軌端之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)女結(jie)為(wei)夫妻。崇(chong)(chong)禎二年(nian),夏允(yun)彝、杜(du)麟征二人在松江(jiang)組(zu)織“幾(ji)(ji)(ji)社(she)(she)(she)”。“幾(ji)(ji)(ji)者(zhe)(zhe),絕學(xue)有再興之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)幾(ji)(ji)(ji),而得知(zhi)(zhi)幾(ji)(ji)(ji)其神之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)義也。”最初(chu)入社(she)(she)(she)者(zhe)(zhe)有周(zhou)立勛、徐孚遠、彭(peng)賓三(san)人。陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)“甫弱冠,聞是舉(ju)也,奮然來歸。諸(zhu)君子(zi)(zi)以年(nian)少(shao)訝之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi),乃其才學(xue)則已(yi)精通(tong)經史(shi),落(luo)紙(zhi)驚人,遂成六(liu)子(zi)(zi)之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)數”,世稱“幾(ji)(ji)(ji)社(she)(she)(she)六(liu)子(zi)(zi)”。幾(ji)(ji)(ji)社(she)(she)(she)和(he)其他文社(she)(she)(she)一樣(yang),起初(chu)是通(tong)過以文會(hui)友,選擇(ze)知(zhi)(zhi)己,學(xue)習制藝,后(hou)來隨著(zhu)政(zheng)(zheng)治形勢的變(bian)化(hua),逐漸演變(bian)成一股政(zheng)(zheng)治勢力。幾(ji)(ji)(ji)社(she)(she)(she)成立后(hou)匯刻八股文范本《幾(ji)(ji)(ji)社(she)(she)(she)壬(ren)申(shen)文選》,集(ji)(ji)(ji)六(liu)子(zi)(zi)之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)文,人各(ge)六(liu)十(shi)(shi)首。又刻《幾(ji)(ji)(ji)社(she)(she)(she)會(hui)義初(chu)集(ji)(ji)(ji)》、《二集(ji)(ji)(ji)》、《三(san)集(ji)(ji)(ji)》、《四集(ji)(ji)(ji)》、《五集(ji)(ji)(ji)》,幾(ji)(ji)(ji)社(she)(she)(she)的聲勢由此大(da)振(zhen)。陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)的名氣亦因之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)日重(zhong)(zhong),“問(wen)業者(zhe)(zhe)日進,戶外屨滿”。崇(chong)(chong)禎三(san)年(nian)(1630年(nian))秋,赴南京應南直隸(li)鄉(xiang)試(shi),中(zhong)舉(ju)人。同年(nian),赴京師參(can)加次年(nian)春的會(hui)試(shi),“為(wei)省中(zhong)某公所黜”,周(zhou)延儒(ru)建議朝廷重(zhong)(zhong)新(xin)檢閱被(bei)廢黜考生(sheng)試(shi)卷(juan)(juan)(juan),朝廷同意,開(kai)始重(zhong)(zhong)審,陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)答卷(juan)(juan)(juan)受到文安(an)之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)、倪(ni)元璐賞識,周(zhou)延儒(ru)“欲置異等”,但因陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)卷(juan)(juan)(juan)子(zi)(zi)存在涂抹,周(zhou)害怕被(bei)政(zheng)(zheng)敵(di)溫(wen)體(ti)仁借機(ji)攻訐(jie),放棄錄取,于是陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)落(luo)第歸里,從事(shi)古文詞(ci)。又作書數萬(wan)言,極(ji)論(lun)時政(zheng)(zheng)得失,本欲上奏(zou)朝廷,被(bei)當(dang)時松江(jiang)名士(shi)陳(chen)(chen)繼儒(ru)戒之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)而止。
崇(chong)禎七年春,再度應會試,因(yin)此次主管錄取的(de)是溫體仁,溫體仁極度排斥(chi)復社(she)成員(yuan)(yuan),這一年復社(she)成員(yuan)(yuan)被錄取人數急劇減少,陳子龍自然落(luo)榜。受(shou)此重大打擊,陳子龍幾乎心灰意冷,回家閉門(men)謝客,“專(zhuan)意于學問”,作古(gu)詩樂府(fu)百余(yu)章(zhang)。接著,在松江南園讀書、寫作,成《屬玉堂集》、《平露堂集》。
崇(chong)禎(zhen)十(shi)年,第(di)三次北(bei)上,與夏允彝同中進(jin)士,俱在丙科(三甲(jia)),當就外吏。陳子龍選得(de)廣東惠(hui)州府司理,未抵任而聞繼母亡,回家(jia)治(zhi)喪。
此(ci)時關外(wai)清軍壓力與關內饑(ji)民起義使(shi)得本已衰朽的(de)(de)明(ming)王朝(chao)已危在旦夕,同時促使(shi)一(yi)批憂國(guo)憂民的(de)(de)知(zhi)識分子對(dui)王陽明(ming)后學的(de)(de)空(kong)談誤(wu)國(guo)產生強烈的(de)(de)不(bu)滿(man),大聲疾呼“經世致用(yong)”,以改(gai)變殘酷(ku)的(de)(de)社(she)會(hui)現(xian)實(shi),陳子龍就(jiu)是其(qi)中(zhong)的(de)(de)一(yi)位典型代表。這一(yi)時期,他為古代中(zhong)國(guo)科學與文(wen)化的(de)(de)發展做了兩件極有意(yi)義的(de)(de)事情。
崇(chong)禎十一(yi)年(1638年)夏(xia),陳子(zi)龍以“君(jun)子(zi)之(zhi)(zhi)學(xue),貴于識時(shi);時(shi)之(zhi)(zhi)所急,務之(zhi)(zhi)恐后”的(de)(de)(de)緊迫感(gan),與徐孚遠、宋徵璧一(yi)起(qi),取明(ming)朝名(ming)卿大臣“有涉世(shi)務、國(guo)政(zheng)(zheng)”之(zhi)(zhi)文(wen),“擷其(qi)精英”,“又(you)旁采以助高深”,“志在征實”,輯(ji)成《皇明(ming)經世(shi)文(wen)編(bian)》,凡(fan)五百(bai)零四卷,又(you)補遺四卷。是(shi)書選文(wen)以明(ming)治亂、存異同(tong)、詳軍事、重(zhong)經濟為原則,內容十分豐(feng)富,包括(kuo)政(zheng)(zheng)治、軍事、賦(fu)役、財經、農田、水利、學(xue)校文(wen)化、典(dian)章(zhang)制度等(deng)(deng)等(deng)(deng),并根(gen)據當(dang)(dang)時(shi)接觸到的(de)(de)(de)許多現實問題,對其(qi)中(zhong)一(yi)些文(wen)章(zhang)加作(zuo)旁注(zhu),表達了(le)編(bian)者的(de)(de)(de)政(zheng)(zheng)治主張(zhang)。陳子(zi)龍等(deng)(deng)人編(bian)輯(ji)此書的(de)(de)(de)動機(ji)和目的(de)(de)(de),是(shi)為了(le)“上以備一(yi)代(dai)之(zhi)(zhi)典(dian)則,下以資(zi)后學(xue)之(zhi)(zhi)師(shi)法”,試圖通過自己的(de)(de)(de)努力,扭轉“俗儒是(shi)古而非(fei)今(jin),擷華而舍實”,不(bu)務實際的(de)(de)(de)壞風氣。它是(shi)一(yi)部“從歷(li)史(shi)實際出發,總結了(le)明(ming)朝兩百(bai)幾十年統治經驗,企圖從中(zhong)得出教訓,用(yong)以改變當(dang)(dang)前現實、經世(shi)致(zhi)用(yong)之(zhi)(zhi)書。這部書的(de)(de)(de)編(bian)輯(ji)出版,對當(dang)(dang)時(shi)的(de)(de)(de)文(wen)風、學(xue)風是(shi)一(yi)個嚴(yan)重(zhong)的(de)(de)(de)挑戰,對稍(shao)后黃宗羲、顧炎武等(deng)(deng)人講求經世(shi)實用(yong)之(zhi)(zhi)學(xue),也起(qi)了(le)先行(xing)的(de)(de)(de)作(zuo)用(yong)”。
繼后,陳(chen)子龍(long)(long)整(zheng)理了徐光(guang)啟的(de)農(nong)(nong)學(xue)(xue)巨著《農(nong)(nong)政(zheng)全(quan)書》。徐光(guang)啟負經(jing)世(shi)之(zhi)(zhi)志,“其生(sheng)(sheng)平所學(xue)(xue),博究天人(ren)(ren),而(er)皆主(zhu)于實(shi)用。至于農(nong)(nong)事(shi),尤所用心。蓋以(yi)為生(sheng)(sheng)民率育之(zhi)(zhi)源(yuan),國(guo)家富強之(zhi)(zhi)本”。對于徐光(guang)啟的(de)為人(ren)(ren)和學(xue)(xue)問(wen),陳(chen)子龍(long)(long)向來是(shi)十分(fen)敬(jing)佩的(de),早年(nian)曾到北京拜訪(fang)他,“問(wen)當世(shi)之(zhi)(zhi)務”。徐光(guang)啟謝(xie)世(shi)后,陳(chen)子龍(long)(long)從其次(ci)孫徐爾爵處得《農(nong)(nong)書》草稿數(shu)十卷,日(ri)夜抄錄。崇禎十二年(nian)(1639年(nian)),“慨(kai)然以(yi)富國(guo)化(hua)民之(zhi)(zhi)本在是(shi),遂(sui)刪(shan)其繁蕪,補其缺略”。“大約刪(shan)者(zhe)十之(zhi)(zhi)三,增(zeng)者(zhe)十之(zhi)(zhi)二”,燦然成《農(nong)(nong)政(zheng)全(quan)書》六十卷。并作《凡(fan)例(li)》,概述《農(nong)(nong)政(zheng)全(quan)書》基本宗旨(zhi)、各(ge)篇主(zhu)要(yao)內容、思想淵源(yuan)和徐光(guang)啟的(de)獨到見解。同時(shi)抒發(fa)了他本人(ren)(ren)的(de)社會經(jing)濟主(zhu)張(zhang)。編輯《皇(huang)明經(jing)世(shi)文編》和整(zheng)理《農(nong)(nong)政(zheng)全(quan)書》,是(shi)陳(chen)子龍(long)(long)一生(sheng)(sheng)中在經(jing)世(shi)實(shi)用方(fang)面(mian)兩(liang)項最主(zhu)要(yao)的(de)貢獻。從中也可以(yi)看出(chu)他對“經(jing)世(shi)”,即現實(shi)社會經(jing)濟問(wen)題,特別是(shi)農(nong)(nong)業生(sheng)(sheng)產是(shi)何等的(de)重視。
此后(hou),陳(chen)子(zi)龍(long)曾(ceng)一度“欲絕(jue)仕宦”,在(zai)家“廣(guang)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(yi)的燎(liao)原(yuan)之(zhi)勢(shi)和清軍(jun)的步(bu)步(bu)進逼,為挽(wan)救(jiu)明(ming)朝國(guo)運,最終(zhong)還(huan)是(shi)放棄個(ge)人打算,于崇(chong)禎(zhen)十(shi)(shi)三年(nian)(1640)六(liu)月,出任浙(zhe)江紹興府司(si)理,不(bu)久(jiu)開(kai)始兼代理諸(zhu)暨(ji)知縣。在(zai)官之(zhi)日,由于他的轄區連年(nian)水患成災,饑(ji)民(min)蜂起(qi),為了維護當地社會(hui)穩定,他剛柔并用,剿撫兼施,一邊“力(li)行保甲,設(she)互首之(zhi)法,申(shen)連坐之(zhi)令”,平定饑(ji)民(min)暴動;一邊親(qin)司(si)賑(zhen)事,救(jiu)濟饑(ji)民(min),立(li)粥廠,設(she)藥局,養老幼,醫(yi)病(bing)疾(ji),收死骨,救(jiu)活十(shi)(shi)幾萬(wan)人。十(shi)(shi)五年(nian)(1642年(nian))五月,在(zai)浙(zhe)江巡撫董(dong)象(xiang)恒(heng)節(jie)制(zhi)下(xia),陳(chen)子(zi)龍(long)督撫標(biao)兵千(qian)余(yu)人到浙(zhe)江遂(sui)昌縣,積極參加浙(zhe)、贛(gan)、閩三省會(hui)剿,平定多年(nian)來活動在(zai)三省交界處的福建汀州人邱凌(ling)霄父(fu)子(zi)為首的山民(min)暴動。崇(chong)禎(zhen)十(shi)(shi)六(liu)年(nian)春(chun),李自成起(qi)義(yi)軍(jun)破承德,南(nan)京(jing)大震。他受董(dong)象(xiang)恒(heng)委派負責籌劃(hua)軍(jun)備,在(zai)余(yu)杭等地筑關建臺(tai),整修(xiu)城(cheng)池(chi),鑄炮儲硝,并督運軍(jun)糧(liang)入南(nan)京(jing)。崇(chong)禎(zhen)十(shi)(shi)七(qi)年(nian)初,陳(chen)子(zi)龍(long)因招撫浙(zhe)江東陽縣諸(zhu)生(sheng)許(xu)(xu)都暴動有功,授兵科(ke)給事中。但許(xu)(xu)都投(tou)降(jiang)后(hou),由于浙(zhe)江巡按(an)左光(guang)先(xian)不(bu)顧陳(chen)子(zi)龍(long)的再三要求,違背(bei)當初許(xu)(xu)下(xia)的只要許(xu)(xu)都自縛來降(jiang),“當待以不(bu)死”的諾言,在(zai)許(xu)(xu)都率眾出山投(tou)降(jiang)之(zhi)后(hou)將許(xu)(xu)都及部(bu)眾六(liu)十(shi)(shi)余(yu)人殺死。對(dui)此,陳(chen)子(zi)龍(long)很(hen)是(shi)不(bu)滿;又聞祖母病(bing)甚篤,便沒(mei)有去赴任,于三月乞身歸里。
崇禎十(shi)七年,李(li)自(zi)成(cheng)攻破北京,崇禎帝(di)(di)(di)自(zi)縊身亡。明(ming)朝(chao)(chao)(chao)(chao)滅亡。緊接(jie)著(zhu)吳(wu)三桂引清軍(jun)入關,李(li)自(zi)成(cheng)潰敗。陳(chen)子龍正準備北上時(shi),聽到崇禎死訊。不(bu)久(jiu)后(hou),福(fu)王朱由崧在(zai)南(nan)京監(jian)國,不(bu)久(jiu)后(hou)稱(cheng)帝(di)(di)(di),即史(shi)上之弘(hong)光(guang)(guang)政權。陳(chen)子龍在(zai)黃道周的(de)推薦下(xia),以崇禎時(shi)授的(de)兵科(ke)給事中職(zhi)務(wu)在(zai)弘(hong)光(guang)(guang)朝(chao)(chao)(chao)(chao)廷任職(zhi)。兵科(ke)給事中雖然(ran)只是七品,但是可以直議(yi)國防要務(wu),陳(chen)子龍在(zai)朝(chao)(chao)(chao)(chao)50多天,上書30多次,提出(chu)大量有價值的(de)建議(yi),但是弘(hong)光(guang)(guang)帝(di)(di)(di)沉溺酒色,無心復國,只求偏安。陳(chen)子龍對朝(chao)(chao)(chao)(chao)政失望(wang)之極,同時(shi)由于自(zi)己的(de)直言(yan)觸犯了(le)馬士英、阮大鋮(cheng)等人,受到排擠,因此(ci)借(jie)故(gu)辭職(zhi)回(hui)鄉(xiang)。次年清軍(jun)在(zai)漢奸將領協助下(xia),迅速南(nan)下(xia)。弘(hong)光(guang)(guang)朝(chao)(chao)(chao)(chao)覆滅,福(fu)王喪(sang)命(ming)。
辭(ci)職后,陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)避地泖濱(bin)。有(you)舊友(you)陳(chen)(chen)洪范時已降清(qing)(qing)(qing),派人(ren)(ren)招撫(fu)他和(he)夏(xia)(xia)允(yun)(yun)彝(yi),夏(xia)(xia)允(yun)(yun)彝(yi)抗辭(ci)答之,陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)則避而(er)不(bu)(bu)見。又(you)有(you)故明(ming)(ming)參將(jiang)洪恩炳,與陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)“素(su)執弟子(zi)禮”,亦(yi)(yi)降清(qing)(qing)(qing),自(zi)稱“安(an)撫(fu)使”路過松(song)江求見,陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)亦(yi)(yi)拒(ju)之門(men)外(wai),矢志堅持抗清(qing)(qing)(qing)立場。閏六月(yue),江南各郡“競起(qi)兵(bing)(bing)為恢(hui)復計”,組織(zhi)義軍(jun)(jun),掀起(qi)轟轟烈烈的抗清(qing)(qing)(qing)運動。松(song)江府(fu)籍的故明(ming)(ming)官(guan)員也同(tong)樣在(zai)(zai)城內募兵(bing)(bing)抗清(qing)(qing)(qing)。這時,陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)與徐(xu)孚遠及陳(chen)(chen)湖(hu)義士集(ji)眾千(qian)余(yu)人(ren)(ren)駐扎陳(chen)(chen)湖(hu),伺(si)機起(qi)兵(bing)(bing)。夏(xia)(xia)允(yun)(yun)彝(yi)致書(shu)(shu)聯絡吳(wu)淞副總(zong)兵(bing)(bing)吳(wu)志葵、參將(jiang)魯(lu)之玙(yu)率水(shui)(shui)師三(san)(san)千(qian)自(zi)吳(wu)淞入(ru)泖湖(hu),總(zong)兵(bing)(bing)官(guan)黃(huang)蜚(fei)率船(chuan)千(qian)艘(sou)、水(shui)(shui)師二萬人(ren)(ren)由無錫到此(ci)(ci)會合。是月(yue)初十日(ri),陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)設明(ming)(ming)太祖像誓師起(qi)義,原明(ming)(ming)兩廣總(zong)督沈猶(you)龍(long)(long)(long)稱總(zong)督兵(bing)(bing)部尚(shang)書(shu)(shu),陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)稱監軍(jun)(jun)左給事中,軍(jun)(jun)號(hao)“振(zhen)武”。陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)所(suo)集(ji)義兵(bing)(bing),雖(sui)有(you)千(qian)余(yu)之眾,但(dan)“餉(xiang)無所(suo)辦”,且多泖濱(bin)漁人(ren)(ren),不(bu)(bu)知紀律(lv),未嘗作戰,甚不(bu)(bu)堪用,與吳(wu)志葵水(shui)(shui)師進攻蘇州(zhou)失(shi)敗。黃(huang)蜚(fei)不(bu)(bu)聽陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)的勸阻,將(jiang)二萬水(shui)(shui)師移營黃(huang)浦江,因沿途水(shui)(shui)道狹隘,不(bu)(bu)利旋轉,單(dan)行數(shu)十里,首(shou)尾(wei)不(bu)(bu)相(xiang)應(ying),僅支撐兩月(yue),亦(yi)(yi)被清(qing)(qing)(qing)軍(jun)(jun)擊敗。八月(yue)三(san)(san)日(ri),松(song)江城陷,沈猶(you)龍(long)(long)(long)等皆陣亡。陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)在(zai)(zai)城西遇清(qing)(qing)(qing)兵(bing)(bing),得逃脫,攜(xie)家走昆山(shan)。夏(xia)(xia)允(yun)(yun)彝(yi)投水(shui)(shui)死。繼(ji)而(er),陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)(long)避難青浦縣金(jin)澤,最后隱姓埋名(ming)入(ru)嘉善縣陶莊水(shui)(shui)月(yue)庵(an),托為禪僧,取名(ming)信(xin)衷,字瓢粟,號(hao)潁川明(ming)(ming)逸。在(zai)(zai)此(ci)(ci),他與庵(an)僧衍(yan)門(men)同(tong)研佛(fo)學,并完成(cheng)自(zi)撰《年譜》。
弘光(guang)元年六(liu)月,魯王(wang)朱以海監(jian)國(guo)于(yu)紹(shao)興(xing)。閏六(liu)月,唐(tang)王(wang)朱聿鍵稱號于(yu)福州(zhou)。魯王(wang)命陳子龍為兵部(bu)尚書,節制七省軍漕;唐(tang)王(wang)授其兵部(bu)左(zuo)(zuo)侍郎、左(zuo)(zuo)都御史(shi)。
五月(yue),陳子(zi)龍(long)(long)監(jian)臨(lin)吳(wu)易義師(shi)。陳子(zi)龍(long)(long)見其“輕敵(di),幕(mu)客皆(jie)輕薄之士,諸(zhu)將惟事剽掠而已(yi),師(shi)眾不(bu)整”,“軍(jun)紀日(ri)弛”,遂(sui)(sui)與之斷絕關系(xi)。至(zhi)秋天,吳(wu)易被清(qing)軍(jun)殺害(hai),義軍(jun)失(shi)敗。此時陳子(zi)龍(long)(long)因(yin)為(wei)匡復大業不(bu)成,經常沈憂咤嘆,至(zhi)廢寢興(xing)。及聞(wen)浙東(dong)、福州失(shi)守,“志不(bu)欲(yu)生,孤筇單(dan)幞,混跡緇(zi)流”。泣然曰:“茫(mang)茫(mang)天地(di)將安(an)之乎,惟有(you)營葬(zang)大母歸(gui)死(si)(si)(si)先(xian)壟耳。”即于七月(yue)遣家(jia)(jia)歸(gui)里,十一月(yue),殯葬(zang)祖母于廣(guang)(guang)富林。并作長書(shu)《報夏(xia)考公(gong)書(shu)》焚夏(xia)允彝(yi)墓前,“述(shu)己(ji)所(suo)以未死(si)(si)(si)之故,期不(bu)負夏(xia)公(gong)”。南明昭宗永歷元年(1647年)初,在廣(guang)(guang)富林家(jia)(jia)居(ju)時,念生平知(zhi)友如夏(xia)允彝(yi)輩(bei)一時零落殆盡,周立勛之死(si)(si)(si)亦已(yi)數年,而喪未舉,慨然曰:“我死(si)(si)(si),誰為(wei)了此事者。”遂(sui)(sui)捐地(di)葬(zang)之。三(san)月(yue),會(hui)葬(zang)夏(xia)允彝(yi),陳子(zi)龍(long)(long)賦詩《會(hui)葬(zang)夏(xia)瑗公(gong)》二章(zhang),又作《寒食》、《清(qing)明》二詞,此系(xi)其絕筆(bi)。
提督(du)吳(wu)(wu)勝(sheng)兆,遼東人,跟(gen)著清軍來(lai)到(dao)江南(nan)。1647年四月,吳(wu)(wu)勝(sheng)兆因受排擠,密謀策劃反正,他的部下戴之(zhi)儁是(shi)陳子龍的舊識,積極支持吳(wu)(wu)勝(sheng)兆起兵,私訪陳子龍,一再(zai)請(qing)求陳子龍寫信聯絡南(nan)明(ming)舟山守將(jiang)黃斌卿率舟師為外應。
據(ju)陳(chen)子龍學生王沄后來(lai)記載,陳(chen)子龍認(ren)為(wei):黃(huang)等“虛聲寡信,事必不(bu)濟”,沒有(you)答應戴(dai)的(de)要(yao)求,并說:“海舶往來(lai),不(bu)乏信使(shi),你等好自為(wei)之,我決不(bu)阻(zu)攔”。戴(dai)即離去,“自是不(bu)復相聞矣”。
但是,據陳(chen)子龍生前友人宋征(zheng)輿記載,陳(chen)子龍當時慨然應允,親(qin)手寫信聯系黃斌卿,積極參與(yu)起義。
兩種說(shuo)法中,以宋的(de)說(shuo)法更為(wei)可靠(kao),因為(wei)王(wang)沄續寫(xie)陳(chen)子(zi)龍(long)年(nian)譜時(shi),為(wei)不(bu)給陳(chen)子(zi)龍(long)遺孀和后代招來麻(ma)煩,所(suo)以故意在(zai)描述中否認陳(chen)子(zi)龍(long)參與起義。而宋征輿(yu)回憶(yi)時(shi)未曾考慮這一(yi)點,因此直言不(bu)諱(hui)。
十(shi)六日(ri),吳勝(sheng)兆未舉兵而事泄被(bei)捕(bu),入(ru)獄窮治。清軍污蔑陳(chen)(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)與吳“共(gong)謀(mou)”,遣兵捕(bu)之(zhi)。陳(chen)(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)逃往蘇(su)州,易姓李,改(gai)字大樽。當(dang)時(shi)清軍江(jiang)寧將軍巴山、都御(yu)史陳(chen)(chen)(chen)(chen)錦和江(jiang)寧巡撫(fu)土(tu)國(guo)寶陰(yin)謀(mou)乘(cheng)吳勝(sheng)兆事,“盡除三(san)吳知名之(zhi)士”,而以陳(chen)(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)為首(shou)。五(wu)月初(chu),他(ta)(ta)們派出士兵五(wu)百(bai),在(zai)蘇(su)松一(yi)帶大肆搜捕(bu)達(da)五(wu)六日(ri)之(zhi)久,最后(hou)陳(chen)(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)在(zai)吳縣被(bei)捕(bu)。巴山等(deng)人對(dui)他(ta)(ta)進行(xing)審訊,他(ta)(ta)“植立(li)不屈,神(shen)色不變(bian)”。陳(chen)(chen)(chen)(chen)錦問他(ta)(ta)為何(he)官?曰(yue):“我崇禎朝(chao)兵科給(gei)事中也(ye)。”又問:“何(he)不剃發(fa)?”曰(yue):“吾惟留此發(fa),以見先帝于地下也(ye)。”又問,陳(chen)(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)凜(lin)然(ran)挺立(li),拒不回答(da)。乃執之(zhi)舟中,令卒守之(zhi)。五(wu)月十(shi)三(san)日(ri),陳(chen)(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)被(bei)押往南京,在(zai)途中經(jing)松江(jiang)境(jing)內跨塘橋時(shi),他(ta)(ta)乘(cheng)守者(zhe)不備,突然(ran)投水以死,撈起時(shi)已(yi)經(jing)氣(qi)絕,清軍還殘暴地將其(qi)凌遲斬首(shou),棄(qi)尸水中。時(shi)年四(si)十(shi)歲。次日(ri),陳(chen)(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)門(men)生(sheng)王沄、轎夫吳酉(you)等(deng)在(zai)毛竹港(gang)找到他(ta)(ta)的遺體,具(ju)棺埋葬(zang)。
明清(qing)易(yi)代(dai)(dai)之(zhi)(zhi)際,陳子龍(long)以其特出之(zhi)(zhi)才(cai)情文(wen)章與(yu)錚錚之(zhi)(zhi)民族氣節(jie)成為當時文(wen)人(ren)之(zhi)(zhi)代(dai)(dai)表、明末清(qing)初江南(nan)風(feng)云(yun)人(ren)物、文(wen)壇盟(meng)主,《明史》本傳稱其“生有異才(cai),工舉子業,兼(jian)治詩賦(fu)古文(wen),取法魏、晉,駢體尤精(jing)妙”。陳子龍(long)領袖云(yun)間(jian)派(pai)(pai)(云(yun)間(jian)詞(ci)派(pai)(pai)與(yu)云(yun)間(jian)詩派(pai)(pai)),對(dui)明末清(qing)初詩詞(ci)振興形成巨大影響,流(liu)風(feng)余(yu)韻波及身(shen)后(hou)(hou)近半個世紀。陳子龍(long)在詩、詞(ci)、駢文(wen)、散文(wen)均卓然自成一(yi)家,是(shi)明清(qing)二代(dai)(dai)最多(duo)才(cai)多(duo)藝的(de)作家之(zhi)(zhi)一(yi),又由其高尚的(de)人(ren)格、不(bu)屈的(de)風(feng)骨,而(er)為當世以及后(hou)(hou)世敬仰,其人(ren)文(wen)章氣節(jie),皆堪(kan)稱后(hou)(hou)人(ren)楷(kai)模(mo)。
陳子龍(long)為(wei)明(ming)(ming)末清初三大詩(shi)人(ren)之一,與錢謙益、吳偉業齊名(但錢、吳二人(ren)在(zai)詞與駢(pian)文方面都(dou)不及陳子龍(long))。其(qi)(qi)詩(shi)學思想(xiang)追(zhui)慕六朝、盛(sheng)唐,倡導明(ming)(ming)七子復(fu)古(gu)主張,但其(qi)(qi)詩(shi)歌創作(zuo)尤其(qi)(qi)是中后期詩(shi)歌創作(zuo)旨(zhi)在(zai)繼承盛(sheng)唐詩(shi)歌創作(zuo)反映現實的(de)精神,特別強調(diao)文學創作(zuo)的(de)社(she)會意(yi)義(yi),所以(yi)其(qi)(qi)詩(shi)感慨時事(shi),關心民生,雄深豪邁(mai),沉(chen)郁頓挫(cuo),蒼勁之色與節義(yi)相符(fu),同時文辭華美、音韻鏗鏘(qiang),浸(jin)透著(zhu)憂(you)國(guo)憂(you)民的(de)真摯情懷與高尚(shang)的(de)愛(ai)國(guo)節操,是結束明(ming)(ming)代復(fu)古(gu)派(pai)詩(shi)歌創作(zuo)的(de)最后一個大詩(shi)人(ren),被公認為(wei)“明(ming)(ming)詩(shi)殿軍”。
陳(chen)子(zi)龍(long)早期詩(shi)歌多摹古(gu)(gu)之作,但是(shi)也(ye)(ye)已經(jing)有(you)大量創新,隨著(zhu)時局的變化,尤其(qi)(qi)是(shi)明亡(wang)前后,在(zai)家國(guo)陵夷(yi)、滄桑劇變的特定時代環境感(gan)(gan)促下,詩(shi)風有(you)較(jiao)大改變,摹古(gu)(gu)習氣也(ye)(ye)幾乎消失,憂時念亂的沉痛情感(gan)(gan)注入詩(shi)中,顯得悲勁蒼涼(liang)(liang),而又辭藻華麗,音韻鏗鏘,具有(you)很強的感(gan)(gan)染力。陳(chen)子(zi)龍(long)各體(ti)皆(jie)工(gong),尤其(qi)(qi)是(shi)他(ta)的七(qi)律與七(qi)言(yan)古(gu)(gu)詩(shi),更為(wei)后人稱道(dao),這(zhe)些七(qi)律與七(qi)言(yan)古(gu)(gu)詩(shi),大多寫于勤(qin)勞國(guo)事、戎(rong)馬倥傯(zong)之際,表達(da)了他(ta)對時局的關切,悲涼(liang)(liang)慷慨,酣暢(chang)淋漓。
陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍詩(shi)(shi)歌(ge)(ge)(ge)雖(sui)受“前后(hou)七(qi)(qi)(qi)子(zi)(zi)”影響,但是能夠擺脫“詩(shi)(shi)必(bi)盛唐”之窠臼,兼(jian)學(xue)齊(qi)梁麗(li)藻(zao)、初唐四(si)杰音韻(yun)和盛唐格調,對晚唐詩(shi)(shi)歌(ge)(ge)(ge)之秾麗(li)特(te)征也有一定吸收(shou),這些(xie)要素配合其(qi)過人(ren)才氣,使(shi)其(qi)詩(shi)(shi)歌(ge)(ge)(ge)與“前后(hou)七(qi)(qi)(qi)子(zi)(zi)”大不相(xiang)同,因此乾(qian)隆年間著名詩(shi)(shi)人(ren)和詩(shi)(shi)歌(ge)(ge)(ge)評(ping)(ping)論家趙翼(yi)全(quan)面否(fou)決“前后(hou)七(qi)(qi)(qi)子(zi)(zi)”卻(que)對陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍詩(shi)(shi)歌(ge)(ge)(ge)予(yu)以相(xiang)當高的(de)評(ping)(ping)價,認為陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍的(de)詩(shi)(shi)論“意理(li)粗疏處,尚(shang)未(wei)免(mian)英雄(xiong)欺人(ren)”,卻(que)不得不承認他(ta)“沉雄(xiong)瑰麗(li),實未(wei)易才”。
明(ming)代(dai)詩(shi)歌(ge)(ge)自高(gao)啟(qi)去世之(zhi)后就陷入(ru)了長期的(de)低迷狀(zhuang)態,陳(chen)子龍崛起(qi)于(yu)東南文(wen)壇,不僅終結了明(ming)朝詩(shi)歌(ge)(ge)藝(yi)術近三(san)百年(nian)(nian)的(de)衰微狀(zhuang)態,而且也是開創清(qing)初(chu)詩(shi)歌(ge)(ge)抒寫(xie)性情、反(fan)映現實新風較早的(de)一(yi)個大詩(shi)人(ren)(ren)。清(qing)代(dai)康熙(xi)年(nian)(nian)間著名詩(shi)人(ren)(ren)、詞人(ren)(ren)朱彝尊在(zai)(zai)編選《明(ming)詩(shi)綜》,高(gao)度評價陳(chen)子龍在(zai)(zai)恢(hui)復詩(shi)歌(ge)(ge)大雅(ya)傳統的(de)功(gong)績(ji):“王李教衰,公(gong)安之(zhi)派浸(jin)廣(guang),竟陵之(zhi)焰頓興,一(yi)時好異(yi)者,诪張(zhang)(zhang)為幻。關中文(wen)太清(qing)倡堅(jian)偽離奇之(zhi)言(yan),致刪改(gai)《三(san)百篇》之(zhi)章句;山陰(yin)王季重寄謔浪笑傲之(zhi)體,不免(mian)綠衣(yi)蒼(cang)鶻之(zhi)儀容。如帝釋既(ji)遠,修羅藥(yao)叉,交起(qi)搏戰,日(ri)輪就暝,鵩子鶚母,四野群(qun)飛。臥子張(zhang)(zhang)以太陰(yin)之(zhi)弓,射以枉矢,腰鼓百面,破盡蒼(cang)蠅蟋蟀(shuai)之(zhi)聲,其功(gong)不可(ke)沒也。”
對于陳(chen)子龍在詩歌方(fang)面正本清源的作用(yong),錢瞻百也有類似評價:“大樽(陳(chen)子龍)當詩學(xue)榛蕪之(zhi)余(yu),力辟正始,一(yi)時宗尚(shang),遂使(shi)群才蔚起(qi),與(yu)弘、正比(bi)隆,摧廓振興之(zhi)功,斯為(wei)極矣(yi)。”
繆天(tian)自持類(lei)似觀點:“剝(bo)極(ji)而反,否極(ji)而復,先征于聲音之道,臥子當(dang)楚(chu)人眾咻之余,力(li)追正(zheng)始(shi),允(yun)矣人豪。”
龔蘅圃則針對那些將(jiang)陳子龍與前后(hou)七子一并批評者提出見(jian)解:“若詩當公安、竟陵之后(hou),雅音漸亡,曼聲并作,大(da)樽力返于正,翦其榛蕪(wu)荊棘(ji),驅其狐貍貒貉,廓清之功(gong),詎可(ke)借口(kou)七子流派,并攢(zan)譏及焉?”
康熙年間(jian)詩壇領袖王(wang)士禛(與(yu)(yu)(yu)朱彝尊(zun)并稱“南(nan)朱北王(wang)”)更是對(dui)陳子龍的(de)(de)詩歌(ge)推崇備至(zhi),在《香祖筆(bi)記》中評價其詩:“沉雄(xiong)瑰麗,近代作者未見其比,殆冠古之才。一時瑜亮,獨有梅村(cun)(cun)(吳偉(wei)業(ye))耳。”陳子龍在結(jie)合齊梁與(yu)(yu)(yu)三唐風(feng)格方(fang)面的(de)(de)努(nu)力深(shen)刻影(ying)(ying)響了同時代的(de)(de)大詩人吳偉(wei)業(ye)。吳偉(wei)業(ye)初學宋枚,以杜(du)甫詩歌(ge)質樸(pu)一面為(wei)宗,后在陳子龍影(ying)(ying)響下,全面吸收齊梁與(yu)(yu)(yu)初唐四杰之詩風(feng),結(jie)合白居(ju)易(yi)等人之敘事詩風(feng)格,融(rong)入傳奇小說筆(bi)法,終成自具面目之“梅村(cun)(cun)體”,對(dui)清代詩歌(ge)造成深(shen)遠影(ying)(ying)響。
清同治年間(jian)(jian)詩(shi)(shi)人朱彭年賦詩(shi)(shi)評價吳偉業:“妙年詞賦黃門(men)亞,復社云(yun)間(jian)(jian)孰繼(ji)聲(sheng)?一自鼎湖龍(long)(long)去后,興(xing)亡凄絕庾蘭成”。此詩(shi)(shi)認為吳偉業詩(shi)(shi)繼(ji)承了明末云(yun)間(jian)(jian)詩(shi)(shi)派陳(chen)子龍(long)(long)之(zhi)風格。(按:黃門(men),陳(chen)子龍(long)(long)曾任兵(bing)科給(gei)事中,黃門(men)是“給(gei)事中”代稱(cheng)。)
后代學(xue)者所(suo)(suo)論述的(de)(de)“梅(mei)村體”的(de)(de)五大特(te)征即詩(shi)史特(te)則、頻繁轉(zhuan)韻、歌(ge)行中(zhong)(zhong)(zhong)多用律(lv)句、用典較多、敘事特(te)征,其(qi)中(zhong)(zhong)(zhong)四(si)(si)大特(te)征都可以在(zai)陳(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)七言歌(ge)行中(zhong)(zhong)(zhong)找到。這四(si)(si)個特(te)征在(zai)初唐(tang)(tang)四(si)(si)杰的(de)(de)詩(shi)歌(ge)中(zhong)(zhong)(zhong)已(yi)(yi)經基本(ben)具備(如(ru)初唐(tang)(tang)四(si)(si)杰之(zhi)一的(de)(de)盧照鄰,其(qi)名篇(pian)(pian)《長安古意》,富(fu)麗精工,典雅絕倫,除(chu)詩(shi)史特(te)征不夠(gou)明(ming)顯(xian)外,已(yi)(yi)經完全具備以上(shang)所(suo)(suo)說四(si)(si)大特(te)征),陳(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)是(shi)直接繼(ji)承者,然后影響了吳偉業(ye)。必須強調的(de)(de)是(shi),明(ming)代中(zhong)(zhong)(zhong)期何景明(ming)在(zai)好友楊慎(shen)影響下也已(yi)(yi)經涉足這類作品(見《明(ming)月篇(pian)(pian)》并序)。
陳子龍(long)與(yu)吳(wu)偉業(ye)的(de)(de)(de)(de)歌行在以(yi)上四個方面難分伯仲(zhong),陳子龍(long)勝在雄麗(li)有(you)骨,吳(wu)偉業(ye)勝在高超的(de)(de)(de)(de)“敘(xu)(xu)(xu)事”風格。陳子龍(long)的(de)(de)(de)(de)敘(xu)(xu)(xu)事詩(shi)仍然以(yi)唐代(dai)之前敘(xu)(xu)(xu)事詩(shi)風格為宗(zong)且(qie)數量極少(如《大梁行》、《紫(zi)玉歌》),而吳(wu)偉業(ye)則(ze)基本上依賴敘(xu)(xu)(xu)事詩(shi)成名,敘(xu)(xu)(xu)事風格不僅熔鑄了白居易等(deng)人的(de)(de)(de)(de)“長慶(qing)體”,而且(qie)采用插敘(xu)(xu)(xu)、倒(dao)敘(xu)(xu)(xu)等(deng)一系列(lie)明清(qing)小說和(he)戲劇中具有(you)的(de)(de)(de)(de)敘(xu)(xu)(xu)事技(ji)巧,從而自(zi)成新(xin)吟,成為婁東派(pai)首(shou)領,與(yu)云間派(pai)首(shou)領陳子龍(long)、虞(yu)山派(pai)首(shou)領錢謙益在明末清(qing)初詩(shi)壇(tan)鼎(ding)足而三。
陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)殉國多年之(zhi)后(hou)之(zhi)后(hou),吳偉業仍在《梅村詩(shi)(shi)話》中(zhong)評價(jia)陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long):“臥(wo)子(zi)(zi)(陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long))負曠世(shi)逸才……。其(qi)四六(liu)跨徐、庾,論(lun)策視二(er)蘇,詩(shi)(shi)特高華雄渾(hun),睥睨一世(shi)。……當是時,幾社名(ming)聞天(tian)下。臥(wo)子(zi)(zi)眼光奕奕,意(yi)(yi)氣(qi)籠罩千(qian)人(ren)(ren),見(jian)(jian)者(zhe)莫不辟(pi)易。登臨贈答,淋漓慷慨,雖(sui)百世(shi)后(hou)猶想見(jian)(jian)其(qi)人(ren)(ren)也。”并且回(hui)憶二(er)人(ren)(ren)在京(jing)城論(lun)詩(shi)(shi)情景:“嘗與余宿京(jing)邸,夜半謂余曰(yue):‘卿詩(shi)(shi)絕似李頎。’又誦(song)(song)余《雒陽行(xing)》一篇,謂為合作。余曰(yue):‘卿詩(shi)(shi)固佳,何首為第一?’臥(wo)子(zi)(zi)曰(yue):‘“苑(yuan)內起山名(ming)萬歲(sui),閣(ge)中(zhong)新戲號千(qian)秋”,此余中(zhong)聯(lian)得(de)意(yi)(yi)語也。“祠官流涕松(song)風路,回(hui)首長陵出塞年”,又“李氏(shi)功(gong)名(ming)猶帶(dai)礪,斷垣落(luo)日海(hai)云黃”,此余結法可誦(song)(song)者(zhe)也。’余贊嘆(tan)久之(zhi)。晚歲(sui)與夏考(kao)功(gong)相期死國事(shi),考(kao)功(gong)先赴水(shui)死,臥(wo)子(zi)(zi)為書(shu)報(bao)考(kao)功(gong)于地下,誓必(bi)相從,文絕可觀(guan)。……”對于陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)詩(shi)(shi)歌(ge)成就,著名(ming)學者(zhe)錢鐘書(shu)先生在《談藝錄》中(zhong)有過(guo)中(zhong)肯(ken)評價(jia):“陳(chen)(chen)臥(wo)子(zi)(zi)大才健筆,足(zu)殿明(ming)詩(shi)(shi)而無愧(kui),又丁百六(liu)陽九之(zhi)會,天(tian)意(yi)(yi)昌(chang)詩(shi)(shi),宜若可以悲壯蒼涼(liang),上繼簡齋、遺(yi)(yi)山之(zhi)學杜(du)”,以“天(tian)意(yi)(yi)昌(chang)詩(shi)(shi)”評價(jia)陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)為代(dai)表的烈士(shi)詩(shi)(shi)人(ren)(ren)與遺(yi)(yi)民(min)詩(shi)(shi)人(ren)(ren)之(zhi)出現,足(zu)見(jian)(jian)評價(jia)之(zhi)高。
在(zai)《談藝錄》中,錢(qian)鐘(zhong)書先生(sheng)還對陳子(zi)龍(long)一些(xie)詩歌名(ming)聯進行匯總:“陳臥子(zi)結有(you)明三(san)百年唐(tang)詩之局,其名(ming)聯如‘禹陵(ling)風雨思王會,越國(guo)(guo)山川(chuan)出霸才’(《錢(qian)塘東(dong)望》)‘左(zuo)徒舊(jiu)宅猶蘭圃,中散(san)荒園尚竹林’(《重(zhong)游弇園》)‘九天星宿開(kai)秦塞(sai),萬(wan)國(guo)(guo)梯(ti)航走冀方’(《送張玉(yu)笥(si)》)及《香(xiang)祖筆記》卷二所稱之‘四塞(sai)山河歸漢關,二陵(ling)風雨送秦師’,‘石顯(xian)上(shang)賓居柳市,竇(dou)嬰別(bie)業在(zai)藍田。’皆比類人地,為撐拄開(kai)闔(he)。