陳子(zi)(zi)(zi)龍(long)祖(zu)上(shang)世代務(wu)(wu)農,父(fu)(fu)親(qin)(qin)陳所聞,以(yi)文(wen)學(xue)名江(jiang)南,萬歷四十七年(nian)中進士,官至刑、工(gong)兩部侍郎。陳子(zi)(zi)(zi)龍(long)于萬歷三十六年(nian)六月(yue)初一(yi)出(chu)生(sheng)(sheng),父(fu)(fu)親(qin)(qin)為(wei)(wei)(wei)其(qi)取名為(wei)(wei)(wei)介。不(bu)久后(hou)(hou),其(qi)母(mu)告(gao)訴其(qi)父(fu)(fu),在(zai)(zai)生(sheng)(sheng)子(zi)(zi)(zi)當晚,夢見房間(jian)壁上(shang)有龍(long)出(chu)現,“蜿蜒有光”,其(qi)父(fu)(fu)因此改其(qi)名為(wei)(wei)(wei)“子(zi)(zi)(zi)龍(long)”。五歲時(shi)(shi),生(sheng)(sheng)母(mu)病(bing)逝(shi),使其(qi)受到(dao)很大打擊。六歲入學(xue),勤治經史,力攻章句。天啟三年(nian)(1623年(nian)),十六歲的子(zi)(zi)(zi)龍(long)舉童子(zi)(zi)(zi)試(shi),縣試(shi)中名居第二,府(fu)試(shi)也(ye)位居高等,但在(zai)(zai)院試(shi)中落(luo)選。次(ci)年(nian)再次(ci)在(zai)(zai)院試(shi)中落(luo)選,直到(dao)十八(ba)歲時(shi)(shi),第三次(ci)參(can)加(jia)童子(zi)(zi)(zi)試(shi),才(cai)獲得成功,成為(wei)(wei)(wei)生(sheng)(sheng)員(“秀才(cai)”)。時(shi)(shi)大批廷臣因為(wei)(wei)(wei)反對魏(wei)忠賢,紛(fen)紛(fen)被削職為(wei)(wei)(wei)民或逮之獄死。陳所聞告(gao)病(bing)在(zai)(zai)家,每(mei)閱邸(di)報,扼腕嘆息,教陳子(zi)(zi)(zi)龍(long)剖析邪正,明辨(bian)是非。天啟五年(nian)(1625年(nian)),他先后(hou)(hou)與本郡夏允彝、徐孚遠、周立(li)勛、宋征(zheng)璧以(yi)及蘇州、嘉興等府(fu)的一(yi)些文(wen)人學(xue)士結為(wei)(wei)(wei)好友(you),切磋學(xue)術,議論(lun)時(shi)(shi)務(wu)(wu),后(hou)(hou)來大都成為(wei)(wei)(wei)明季江(jiang)南黨(dang)社(she)運動(dong)的骨干分子(zi)(zi)(zi)。天啟六年(nian)(1626年(nian)),補(bu)松(song)江(jiang)府(fu)學(xue)生(sheng)(sheng)員。父(fu)(fu)親(qin)(qin)病(bing)歿,居家守孝(xiao),閉門不(bu)出(chu),博覽群書,尤(you)其(qi)致(zhi)力于古(gu)文(wen)詞。
崇(chong)禎(zhen)(zhen)元年(nian)(nian)(nian)(1628年(nian)(nian)(nian)),陳(chen)子(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)二(er)(er)十一(yi)歲(sui),與(yu)湖廣寶(bao)慶(qing)府邵陽知縣張軌端之(zhi)女結為夫妻。崇(chong)禎(zhen)(zhen)二(er)(er)年(nian)(nian)(nian),夏(xia)允彝(yi)、杜麟征二(er)(er)人(ren)在(zai)松江組織“幾(ji)社(she)”。“幾(ji)者(zhe),絕學有再興之(zhi)幾(ji),而(er)得知幾(ji)其神(shen)之(zhi)義也。”最初(chu)入社(she)者(zhe)有周(zhou)立勛(xun)、徐孚遠、彭賓(bin)三(san)人(ren)。陳(chen)子(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)“甫弱冠(guan),聞是舉也,奮(fen)然來歸(gui)。諸君子(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)以(yi)年(nian)(nian)(nian)少訝(ya)之(zhi),乃(nai)其才學則(ze)已(yi)精通經(jing)史,落(luo)紙驚(jing)人(ren),遂成六(liu)子(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)之(zhi)數”,世稱“幾(ji)社(she)六(liu)子(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)”。幾(ji)社(she)和其他(ta)文社(she)一(yi)樣,起初(chu)是通過以(yi)文會(hui)友,選(xuan)擇(ze)知己,學習制藝,后來隨(sui)著(zhu)政(zheng)治(zhi)形勢的變化,逐(zhu)漸演(yan)變成一(yi)股政(zheng)治(zhi)勢力(li)。幾(ji)社(she)成立后匯(hui)刻八股文范(fan)本(ben)《幾(ji)社(she)壬申文選(xuan)》,集六(liu)子(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)之(zhi)文,人(ren)各六(liu)十首。又刻《幾(ji)社(she)會(hui)義初(chu)集》、《二(er)(er)集》、《三(san)集》、《四集》、《五集》,幾(ji)社(she)的聲勢由此大振。陳(chen)子(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)的名(ming)(ming)氣亦因(yin)之(zhi)日(ri)重(zhong),“問(wen)業者(zhe)日(ri)進,戶外(wai)屨滿”。崇(chong)禎(zhen)(zhen)三(san)年(nian)(nian)(nian)(1630年(nian)(nian)(nian))秋,赴(fu)南京(jing)應(ying)南直隸鄉試,中(zhong)舉人(ren)。同年(nian)(nian)(nian),赴(fu)京(jing)師參(can)加(jia)次年(nian)(nian)(nian)春的會(hui)試,“為省中(zhong)某公所黜”,周(zhou)延儒建(jian)議(yi)朝廷(ting)重(zhong)新檢(jian)閱被廢黜考生試卷,朝廷(ting)同意,開始(shi)重(zhong)審,陳(chen)子(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)答卷受到文安(an)之(zhi)、倪元璐賞(shang)識,周(zhou)延儒“欲(yu)置異等”,但因(yin)陳(chen)子(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)卷子(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)存在(zai)涂抹,周(zhou)害怕被政(zheng)敵溫(wen)體仁借機攻(gong)訐,放棄錄(lu)取(qu),于(yu)是陳(chen)子(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)落(luo)第歸(gui)里,從事(shi)古文詞。又作書(shu)數萬言,極論時(shi)政(zheng)得失,本(ben)欲(yu)上(shang)奏朝廷(ting),被當時(shi)松江名(ming)(ming)士(shi)陳(chen)繼儒戒之(zhi)而(er)止。
崇(chong)禎七年春,再度應會試,因此(ci)次主(zhu)管(guan)錄(lu)取(qu)的(de)是溫體仁,溫體仁極(ji)度排斥復(fu)社成員,這一年復(fu)社成員被錄(lu)取(qu)人數急劇減少,陳子龍自然(ran)落榜。受此(ci)重大打(da)擊(ji),陳子龍幾乎(hu)心灰意(yi)冷,回家閉門謝客(ke),“專(zhuan)意(yi)于學問”,作(zuo)古詩樂府百(bai)余章。接(jie)著,在松(song)江南園(yuan)讀書(shu)、寫作(zuo),成《屬玉堂集(ji)》、《平露堂集(ji)》。
崇禎十(shi)年,第三(san)次北上,與(yu)夏(xia)允彝(yi)同中進士,俱在丙科(三(san)甲),當(dang)就外吏。陳子龍選得廣東惠州府司(si)理,未(wei)抵任而(er)聞(wen)繼母亡,回(hui)家治喪(sang)。
此時(shi)關(guan)外清軍壓(ya)力與關(guan)內(nei)饑民起義(yi)使得本已(yi)衰朽的(de)(de)明王朝已(yi)危在旦(dan)夕(xi),同時(shi)促使一批憂國(guo)憂民的(de)(de)知(zhi)識分(fen)子對王陽明后學的(de)(de)空(kong)談誤國(guo)產生強(qiang)烈的(de)(de)不滿,大聲疾(ji)呼“經(jing)世致用”,以改變殘酷的(de)(de)社會現實(shi),陳子龍(long)就是(shi)其中(zhong)的(de)(de)一位典(dian)型代表。這(zhe)一時(shi)期,他為(wei)古代中(zhong)國(guo)科學與文化的(de)(de)發展做(zuo)了兩件極有(you)意義(yi)的(de)(de)事(shi)情。
崇禎十一(yi)(yi)年(nian)(1638年(nian))夏,陳子龍以(yi)“君子之(zhi)(zhi)學(xue)(xue)(xue),貴(gui)于識時;時之(zhi)(zhi)所急,務之(zhi)(zhi)恐后”的緊迫感(gan),與徐孚遠、宋徵璧一(yi)(yi)起,取(qu)明(ming)(ming)朝(chao)名卿大(da)臣“有涉世(shi)務、國政”之(zhi)(zhi)文(wen),“擷(xie)其(qi)精英”,“又旁采以(yi)助(zhu)高深”,“志在(zai)征(zheng)實”,輯成(cheng)《皇明(ming)(ming)經(jing)世(shi)文(wen)編(bian)》,凡五(wu)百零四(si)卷,又補遺四(si)卷。是書(shu)選文(wen)以(yi)明(ming)(ming)治(zhi)亂、存異同、詳軍事、重經(jing)濟為原則(ze),內容(rong)十分豐富,包括政治(zhi)、軍事、賦役、財經(jing)、農(nong)田、水利、學(xue)(xue)(xue)校文(wen)化、典章制度等(deng)等(deng),并根據當(dang)時接觸到的許多現實問題,對其(qi)中一(yi)(yi)些文(wen)章加作旁注,表達(da)了編(bian)者的政治(zhi)主(zhu)張。陳子龍等(deng)人(ren)編(bian)輯此(ci)書(shu)的動機和(he)目的,是為了“上以(yi)備一(yi)(yi)代之(zhi)(zhi)典則(ze),下以(yi)資(zi)后學(xue)(xue)(xue)之(zhi)(zhi)師法(fa)”,試圖通過自(zi)己的努力,扭轉“俗儒是古而(er)非今,擷(xie)華而(er)舍(she)實”,不務實際的壞風(feng)氣。它是一(yi)(yi)部“從歷(li)史實際出發,總(zong)結了明(ming)(ming)朝(chao)兩百幾十年(nian)統治(zhi)經(jing)驗,企圖從中得出教訓,用(yong)(yong)以(yi)改變當(dang)前現實、經(jing)世(shi)致用(yong)(yong)之(zhi)(zhi)書(shu)。這部書(shu)的編(bian)輯出版,對當(dang)時的文(wen)風(feng)、學(xue)(xue)(xue)風(feng)是一(yi)(yi)個嚴重的挑戰,對稍后黃宗(zong)羲(xi)、顧炎武等(deng)人(ren)講求經(jing)世(shi)實用(yong)(yong)之(zhi)(zhi)學(xue)(xue)(xue),也起了先行的作用(yong)(yong)”。
繼(ji)后,陳子龍整理(li)了徐(xu)(xu)光(guang)啟的(de)(de)農(nong)(nong)學巨著《農(nong)(nong)政(zheng)全(quan)(quan)書(shu)》。徐(xu)(xu)光(guang)啟負經世之(zhi)志,“其(qi)(qi)(qi)生(sheng)平所學,博(bo)究天人(ren),而皆(jie)主于(yu)實用(yong)。至于(yu)農(nong)(nong)事,尤(you)所用(yong)心。蓋以為生(sheng)民(min)率育之(zhi)源,國(guo)家富強之(zhi)本”。對于(yu)徐(xu)(xu)光(guang)啟的(de)(de)為人(ren)和學問(wen)(wen),陳子龍向來是十分敬佩的(de)(de),早年曾到北(bei)京拜訪他,“問(wen)(wen)當世之(zhi)務”。徐(xu)(xu)光(guang)啟謝世后,陳子龍從其(qi)(qi)(qi)次(ci)孫徐(xu)(xu)爾爵處得《農(nong)(nong)書(shu)》草稿數十卷,日夜抄錄(lu)。崇禎十二年(1639年),“慨然(ran)(ran)以富國(guo)化(hua)民(min)之(zhi)本在是,遂(sui)刪其(qi)(qi)(qi)繁(fan)蕪,補其(qi)(qi)(qi)缺略”。“大約刪者十之(zhi)三(san),增者十之(zhi)二”,燦然(ran)(ran)成《農(nong)(nong)政(zheng)全(quan)(quan)書(shu)》六十卷。并作(zuo)《凡例》,概(gai)述《農(nong)(nong)政(zheng)全(quan)(quan)書(shu)》基本宗旨、各篇主要內容、思想淵源和徐(xu)(xu)光(guang)啟的(de)(de)獨到見解(jie)。同時(shi)抒發(fa)了他本人(ren)的(de)(de)社會經濟(ji)主張。編輯《皇明經世文(wen)編》和整理(li)《農(nong)(nong)政(zheng)全(quan)(quan)書(shu)》,是陳子龍一生(sheng)中在經世實用(yong)方面(mian)兩項最(zui)主要的(de)(de)貢獻。從中也可以看出他對“經世”,即現實社會經濟(ji)問(wen)(wen)題,特別(bie)是農(nong)(nong)業生(sheng)產是何等的(de)(de)重視。
此(ci)后(hou),陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍曾(ceng)一度“欲絕(jue)仕宦”,在家“廣其宅,示無志四方也”。然而,面(mian)對著明末農民(min)大(da)起義的(de)(de)燎原(yuan)之勢(shi)和清軍的(de)(de)步(bu)步(bu)進(jin)逼,為(wei)(wei)挽救(jiu)明朝國(guo)運,最終還(huan)是放棄個(ge)人(ren)(ren)打算,于(yu)崇禎(zhen)十(shi)(shi)(shi)三(san)年(nian)(1640)六月(yue),出(chu)任浙(zhe)江(jiang)紹興府司(si)理(li),不(bu)(bu)久開始兼(jian)(jian)代理(li)諸暨知縣(xian)。在官之日,由于(yu)他(ta)的(de)(de)轄區連(lian)年(nian)水患成(cheng)災,饑(ji)民(min)蜂起,為(wei)(wei)了維護當(dang)地(di)社會(hui)穩定(ding),他(ta)剛柔并(bing)用(yong),剿撫(fu)(fu)兼(jian)(jian)施,一邊“力(li)行保甲,設互首之法,申連(lian)坐(zuo)之令”,平定(ding)饑(ji)民(min)暴(bao)動;一邊親司(si)賑事(shi),救(jiu)濟(ji)饑(ji)民(min),立粥廠,設藥局,養老幼(you),醫病疾,收死骨,救(jiu)活十(shi)(shi)(shi)幾萬(wan)人(ren)(ren)。十(shi)(shi)(shi)五年(nian)(1642年(nian))五月(yue),在浙(zhe)江(jiang)巡(xun)撫(fu)(fu)董(dong)象恒(heng)節(jie)制下(xia),陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍督撫(fu)(fu)標兵千(qian)余(yu)人(ren)(ren)到(dao)浙(zhe)江(jiang)遂昌縣(xian),積極(ji)參(can)加浙(zhe)、贛(gan)、閩三(san)省會(hui)剿,平定(ding)多年(nian)來(lai)活動在三(san)省交界處的(de)(de)福建汀州人(ren)(ren)邱(qiu)凌霄父(fu)子(zi)(zi)為(wei)(wei)首的(de)(de)山(shan)民(min)暴(bao)動。崇禎(zhen)十(shi)(shi)(shi)六年(nian)春,李自成(cheng)起義軍破(po)承德,南京大(da)震。他(ta)受董(dong)象恒(heng)委派負責籌劃軍備,在余(yu)杭等地(di)筑關建臺,整修城池,鑄炮儲硝,并(bing)督運軍糧入(ru)南京。崇禎(zhen)十(shi)(shi)(shi)七(qi)年(nian)初,陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍因招撫(fu)(fu)浙(zhe)江(jiang)東陽縣(xian)諸生許都(dou)暴(bao)動有功(gong),授兵科給事(shi)中。但許都(dou)投降后(hou),由于(yu)浙(zhe)江(jiang)巡(xun)按左光先不(bu)(bu)顧陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍的(de)(de)再三(san)要求,違背當(dang)初許下(xia)的(de)(de)只要許都(dou)自縛來(lai)降,“當(dang)待以不(bu)(bu)死”的(de)(de)諾言(yan),在許都(dou)率(lv)眾(zhong)出(chu)山(shan)投降之后(hou)將許都(dou)及(ji)部眾(zhong)六十(shi)(shi)(shi)余(yu)人(ren)(ren)殺死。對此(ci),陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍很是不(bu)(bu)滿;又聞祖母病甚篤,便沒有去(qu)赴(fu)任,于(yu)三(san)月(yue)乞身(shen)歸里。
崇(chong)禎十七(qi)年,李自(zi)(zi)成攻(gong)破北京,崇(chong)禎帝自(zi)(zi)縊身亡(wang)。明朝滅亡(wang)。緊接著吳三桂引清(qing)軍(jun)(jun)入關,李自(zi)(zi)成潰敗。陳子(zi)(zi)龍正準(zhun)備(bei)北上時,聽到崇(chong)禎死訊。不久(jiu)后,福王朱由崧在(zai)南京監國(guo)(guo),不久(jiu)后稱帝,即史上之(zhi)弘(hong)光(guang)政權(quan)。陳子(zi)(zi)龍在(zai)黃道(dao)周的(de)(de)推薦(jian)下,以(yi)崇(chong)禎時授的(de)(de)兵科(ke)給事中(zhong)職務在(zai)弘(hong)光(guang)朝廷任職。兵科(ke)給事中(zhong)雖然只是(shi)七(qi)品,但是(shi)可以(yi)直議國(guo)(guo)防要務,陳子(zi)(zi)龍在(zai)朝50多天,上書30多次(ci),提出(chu)大量有價(jia)值的(de)(de)建議,但是(shi)弘(hong)光(guang)帝沉(chen)溺酒色,無心復(fu)國(guo)(guo),只求(qiu)偏安。陳子(zi)(zi)龍對朝政失望(wang)之(zhi)極(ji),同時由于自(zi)(zi)己(ji)的(de)(de)直言(yan)觸犯了馬士英(ying)、阮大鋮等人,受到排擠,因此借故辭職回(hui)鄉。次(ci)年清(qing)軍(jun)(jun)在(zai)漢(han)奸將領協助(zhu)下,迅(xun)速南下。弘(hong)光(guang)朝覆滅,福王喪命。
辭職(zhi)后,陳(chen)(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)避地泖(mao)濱。有(you)舊友(you)陳(chen)(chen)(chen)(chen)洪(hong)范時(shi)已(yi)降清(qing),派(pai)人(ren)招撫他和夏(xia)允彝,夏(xia)允彝抗(kang)辭答之(zhi),陳(chen)(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)則避而不(bu)(bu)見(jian)。又有(you)故明(ming)參將洪(hong)恩炳,與陳(chen)(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)“素執弟子(zi)(zi)禮”,亦(yi)降清(qing),自(zi)稱“安撫使”路過松(song)江(jiang)求見(jian),陳(chen)(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)亦(yi)拒之(zhi)門外,矢志堅持抗(kang)清(qing)立場。閏六月,江(jiang)南各郡“競起兵(bing)為恢復計”,組織義軍,掀起轟轟烈(lie)(lie)烈(lie)(lie)的抗(kang)清(qing)運動。松(song)江(jiang)府(fu)籍的故明(ming)官員(yuan)也同樣在城(cheng)(cheng)內募兵(bing)抗(kang)清(qing)。這時(shi),陳(chen)(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)與徐孚(fu)遠(yuan)及陳(chen)(chen)(chen)(chen)湖(hu)義士集(ji)眾千(qian)(qian)余人(ren)駐扎陳(chen)(chen)(chen)(chen)湖(hu),伺機(ji)起兵(bing)。夏(xia)允彝致書聯絡吳(wu)(wu)淞(song)副總(zong)兵(bing)吳(wu)(wu)志葵、參將魯之(zhi)玙率水(shui)(shui)師(shi)三千(qian)(qian)自(zi)吳(wu)(wu)淞(song)入(ru)泖(mao)湖(hu),總(zong)兵(bing)官黃蜚率船千(qian)(qian)艘、水(shui)(shui)師(shi)二萬人(ren)由無錫(xi)到此會合(he)。是(shi)月初(chu)十日(ri),陳(chen)(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)設明(ming)太祖(zu)像誓師(shi)起義,原明(ming)兩(liang)廣總(zong)督(du)(du)沈(shen)猶龍(long)(long)稱總(zong)督(du)(du)兵(bing)部尚書,陳(chen)(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)稱監軍左給事(shi)中,軍號(hao)“振武”。陳(chen)(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)所集(ji)義兵(bing),雖有(you)千(qian)(qian)余之(zhi)眾,但“餉無所辦”,且多泖(mao)濱漁人(ren),不(bu)(bu)知(zhi)紀律(lv),未嘗作戰,甚不(bu)(bu)堪用,與吳(wu)(wu)志葵水(shui)(shui)師(shi)進攻蘇州失(shi)敗(bai)。黃蜚不(bu)(bu)聽陳(chen)(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)的勸阻,將二萬水(shui)(shui)師(shi)移營(ying)黃浦(pu)江(jiang),因沿途水(shui)(shui)道狹隘(ai),不(bu)(bu)利旋轉,單行(xing)數(shu)十里,首尾不(bu)(bu)相應,僅支(zhi)撐兩(liang)月,亦(yi)被清(qing)軍擊(ji)敗(bai)。八月三日(ri),松(song)江(jiang)城(cheng)(cheng)陷,沈(shen)猶龍(long)(long)等皆陣亡。陳(chen)(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)在城(cheng)(cheng)西遇清(qing)兵(bing),得逃脫(tuo),攜(xie)家走昆山。夏(xia)允彝投水(shui)(shui)死。繼而,陳(chen)(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)(zi)龍(long)(long)避難青(qing)浦(pu)縣(xian)金澤,最后隱姓埋名(ming)入(ru)嘉善縣(xian)陶莊水(shui)(shui)月庵,托為禪僧(seng),取名(ming)信衷,字瓢粟,號(hao)潁川明(ming)逸(yi)。在此,他與庵僧(seng)衍門同研佛學,并完(wan)成自(zi)撰《年譜》。
弘光元年六(liu)(liu)月,魯王朱(zhu)(zhu)以海監(jian)國于紹興(xing)。閏六(liu)(liu)月,唐(tang)王朱(zhu)(zhu)聿(yu)鍵稱號于福州。魯王命陳子龍為兵(bing)部尚書,節制七省軍漕;唐(tang)王授其(qi)兵(bing)部左侍郎、左都御史(shi)。
五月,陳(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)監臨(lin)吳(wu)(wu)易(yi)義(yi)(yi)師。陳(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)見(jian)其“輕敵,幕客皆輕薄之士,諸將惟事剽掠(lve)而已,師眾不(bu)整(zheng)”,“軍(jun)紀日弛”,遂(sui)與之斷絕(jue)關系。至秋天,吳(wu)(wu)易(yi)被清軍(jun)殺(sha)害,義(yi)(yi)軍(jun)失(shi)敗。此(ci)(ci)時(shi)陳(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)因為匡復大(da)業(ye)不(bu)成,經(jing)常沈憂咤(zha)嘆,至廢寢興。及(ji)聞(wen)浙東、福州失(shi)守,“志(zhi)不(bu)欲生,孤筇單幞,混(hun)跡緇流”。泣然曰:“茫茫天地將安之乎,惟有營葬大(da)母歸(gui)死先(xian)壟(long)耳。”即(ji)于七月遣家(jia)歸(gui)里,十一月,殯葬祖(zu)母于廣富(fu)林(lin)。并作長書《報夏(xia)考公書》焚夏(xia)允彝(yi)墓前(qian),“述己所(suo)以未死之故(gu),期不(bu)負夏(xia)公”。南明昭宗(zong)永歷元年(1647年)初,在廣富(fu)林(lin)家(jia)居時(shi),念(nian)生平知友如夏(xia)允彝(yi)輩一時(shi)零落(luo)殆盡,周立勛之死亦(yi)已數年,而喪未舉,慨然曰:“我死,誰為了此(ci)(ci)事者。”遂(sui)捐地葬之。三月,會(hui)(hui)葬夏(xia)允彝(yi),陳(chen)子(zi)龍(long)(long)賦(fu)詩《會(hui)(hui)葬夏(xia)瑗公》二(er)章,又(you)作《寒食(shi)》、《清明》二(er)詞,此(ci)(ci)系其絕(jue)筆(bi)。
提督吳勝(sheng)兆,遼東人(ren),跟著清軍(jun)來到江南(nan)。1647年四月,吳勝(sheng)兆因(yin)受排擠,密謀策(ce)劃反正,他(ta)的部下戴(dai)之儁是陳子(zi)(zi)龍(long)的舊識(shi),積極支持吳勝(sheng)兆起兵(bing),私訪陳子(zi)(zi)龍(long),一再請(qing)求(qiu)陳子(zi)(zi)龍(long)寫信聯絡南(nan)明舟山守(shou)將黃(huang)斌卿率舟師為(wei)外應(ying)。
據陳子龍(long)學生王沄后來(lai)記載,陳子龍(long)認(ren)為:黃等“虛聲寡信,事必不(bu)濟”,沒有答應(ying)戴的(de)要求(qiu),并(bing)說:“海舶往來(lai),不(bu)乏信使,你等好自為之,我決不(bu)阻攔”。戴即離去,“自是不(bu)復相聞矣”。
但是,據陳子龍(long)生(sheng)前(qian)友人宋征輿(yu)記載,陳子龍(long)當(dang)時慨然(ran)應允,親手(shou)寫(xie)信聯系(xi)黃斌卿,積極參(can)與起(qi)義(yi)。
兩種說法中,以(yi)宋的說法更(geng)為(wei)可靠,因(yin)為(wei)王(wang)沄(yun)續寫陳(chen)子(zi)龍年譜時(shi),為(wei)不(bu)給陳(chen)子(zi)龍遺孀(shuang)和后代招來麻(ma)煩,所以(yi)故意在描述(shu)中否(fou)認(ren)陳(chen)子(zi)龍參與(yu)起義(yi)。而宋征輿回憶時(shi)未曾考慮這(zhe)一點,因(yin)此直言不(bu)諱。
十(shi)六(liu)日(ri),吳勝(sheng)兆未舉兵(bing)而(er)事泄被捕(bu),入獄窮治。清(qing)軍(jun)污蔑(mie)陳(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)與吳“共謀”,遣兵(bing)捕(bu)之(zhi)。陳(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)逃往(wang)蘇州(zhou),易姓李,改字大樽。當時清(qing)軍(jun)江(jiang)寧將(jiang)軍(jun)巴(ba)山(shan)、都御史陳(chen)(chen)(chen)錦(jin)和江(jiang)寧巡(xun)撫土(tu)國寶陰(yin)謀乘吳勝(sheng)兆事,“盡除(chu)三吳知名之(zhi)士(shi)”,而(er)以陳(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)為(wei)首。五(wu)月初,他(ta)(ta)們派出士(shi)兵(bing)五(wu)百,在(zai)蘇松(song)一帶大肆搜捕(bu)達五(wu)六(liu)日(ri)之(zhi)久,最后陳(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)在(zai)吳縣被捕(bu)。巴(ba)山(shan)等(deng)人對他(ta)(ta)進行審訊(xun),他(ta)(ta)“植立(li)不(bu)(bu)(bu)屈,神色(se)不(bu)(bu)(bu)變(bian)”。陳(chen)(chen)(chen)錦(jin)問(wen)他(ta)(ta)為(wei)何(he)官?曰:“我崇禎朝兵(bing)科給事中(zhong)也(ye)(ye)。”又問(wen):“何(he)不(bu)(bu)(bu)剃發(fa)?”曰:“吾惟(wei)留此發(fa),以見先(xian)帝(di)于地(di)下也(ye)(ye)。”又問(wen),陳(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)凜然挺立(li),拒(ju)不(bu)(bu)(bu)回答。乃(nai)執之(zhi)舟中(zhong),令(ling)卒守之(zhi)。五(wu)月十(shi)三日(ri),陳(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)被押往(wang)南京,在(zai)途中(zhong)經(jing)松(song)江(jiang)境內跨(kua)塘橋時,他(ta)(ta)乘守者不(bu)(bu)(bu)備,突然投水以死,撈起時已經(jing)氣絕,清(qing)軍(jun)還(huan)殘暴地(di)將(jiang)其凌遲(chi)斬首,棄尸水中(zhong)。時年四十(shi)歲。次日(ri),陳(chen)(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)門(men)生王沄(yun)、轎夫吳酉(you)等(deng)在(zai)毛(mao)竹港找(zhao)到他(ta)(ta)的遺體(ti),具棺埋(mai)葬。
明(ming)(ming)清(qing)易(yi)代之(zhi)(zhi)際,陳(chen)(chen)子龍(long)以(yi)其(qi)特出之(zhi)(zhi)才(cai)情文章(zhang)與錚錚之(zhi)(zhi)民族氣節成(cheng)(cheng)為當時(shi)文人(ren)之(zhi)(zhi)代表(biao)、明(ming)(ming)末(mo)(mo)清(qing)初江南風云(yun)人(ren)物、文壇盟主,《明(ming)(ming)史》本傳稱其(qi)“生有異才(cai),工舉(ju)子業,兼(jian)治詩(shi)賦古文,取(qu)法魏(wei)、晉(jin),駢(pian)(pian)體尤精妙”。陳(chen)(chen)子龍(long)領袖云(yun)間(jian)派(云(yun)間(jian)詞派與云(yun)間(jian)詩(shi)派),對明(ming)(ming)末(mo)(mo)清(qing)初詩(shi)詞振興形成(cheng)(cheng)巨大影響,流(liu)風余韻波(bo)及(ji)身(shen)后(hou)近半(ban)個世(shi)紀。陳(chen)(chen)子龍(long)在(zai)詩(shi)、詞、駢(pian)(pian)文、散(san)文均卓然自成(cheng)(cheng)一家,是明(ming)(ming)清(qing)二代最多才(cai)多藝的作(zuo)家之(zhi)(zhi)一,又(you)由(you)其(qi)高尚的人(ren)格、不屈的風骨(gu),而(er)為當世(shi)以(yi)及(ji)后(hou)世(shi)敬仰,其(qi)人(ren)文章(zhang)氣節,皆堪稱后(hou)人(ren)楷模。
陳子(zi)龍(long)為明末清初三大詩人之一(yi)(yi),與錢(qian)謙(qian)益、吳偉業齊名(但錢(qian)、吳二人在詞與駢文方面都不(bu)及陳子(zi)龍(long))。其(qi)詩學(xue)(xue)思想(xiang)追慕六朝、盛唐,倡導明七子(zi)復(fu)古(gu)主張,但其(qi)詩歌(ge)(ge)創(chuang)(chuang)(chuang)作尤其(qi)是(shi)中后期詩歌(ge)(ge)創(chuang)(chuang)(chuang)作旨在繼(ji)承(cheng)盛唐詩歌(ge)(ge)創(chuang)(chuang)(chuang)作反映(ying)現(xian)實的(de)精神(shen),特別強(qiang)調文學(xue)(xue)創(chuang)(chuang)(chuang)作的(de)社會(hui)意(yi)義(yi),所以(yi)其(qi)詩感慨時事(shi),關心民生,雄(xiong)深(shen)豪邁,沉郁頓(dun)挫(cuo),蒼勁之色與節(jie)義(yi)相符,同(tong)時文辭華美(mei)、音韻(yun)鏗鏘,浸透(tou)著憂國(guo)憂民的(de)真摯情懷與高(gao)尚(shang)的(de)愛國(guo)節(jie)操,是(shi)結束明代復(fu)古(gu)派詩歌(ge)(ge)創(chuang)(chuang)(chuang)作的(de)最后一(yi)(yi)個大詩人,被(bei)公認為“明詩殿軍”。
陳子(zi)龍早期詩(shi)(shi)(shi)(shi)歌(ge)多摹古(gu)(gu)之作,但是也已經有大量創新,隨著時(shi)局(ju)的(de)(de)變化,尤其是明亡前后(hou),在家國陵夷、滄(cang)桑劇變的(de)(de)特定時(shi)代環境感(gan)促(cu)下,詩(shi)(shi)(shi)(shi)風有較大改變,摹古(gu)(gu)習氣也幾乎消失,憂時(shi)念亂的(de)(de)沉痛情感(gan)注入(ru)詩(shi)(shi)(shi)(shi)中,顯得悲勁蒼(cang)涼,而又辭藻華麗,音韻(yun)鏗鏘(qiang),具(ju)有很強的(de)(de)感(gan)染力。陳子(zi)龍各體(ti)皆工,尤其是他的(de)(de)七(qi)律與七(qi)言(yan)古(gu)(gu)詩(shi)(shi)(shi)(shi),更為后(hou)人稱道,這些七(qi)律與七(qi)言(yan)古(gu)(gu)詩(shi)(shi)(shi)(shi),大多寫于勤勞國事、戎馬倥(kong)傯之際,表(biao)達了他對時(shi)局(ju)的(de)(de)關(guan)切,悲涼慷慨,酣暢淋漓。
陳子(zi)龍詩(shi)(shi)(shi)歌(ge)(ge)雖受“前后七子(zi)”影(ying)響,但是(shi)能(neng)夠(gou)擺脫“詩(shi)(shi)(shi)必盛唐(tang)(tang)(tang)”之窠臼,兼學齊梁麗藻、初唐(tang)(tang)(tang)四杰音(yin)韻和(he)盛唐(tang)(tang)(tang)格(ge)調,對晚(wan)唐(tang)(tang)(tang)詩(shi)(shi)(shi)歌(ge)(ge)之秾麗特(te)征也有一定(ding)吸收,這些要素配合其(qi)過人(ren)(ren)才(cai)氣,使其(qi)詩(shi)(shi)(shi)歌(ge)(ge)與“前后七子(zi)”大不相同,因此乾隆年間著(zhu)名詩(shi)(shi)(shi)人(ren)(ren)和(he)詩(shi)(shi)(shi)歌(ge)(ge)評(ping)論家趙翼全(quan)面否決“前后七子(zi)”卻對陳子(zi)龍詩(shi)(shi)(shi)歌(ge)(ge)予以相當(dang)高的評(ping)價,認(ren)(ren)為陳子(zi)龍的詩(shi)(shi)(shi)論“意理粗疏處,尚未免(mian)英(ying)雄欺人(ren)(ren)”,卻不得不承認(ren)(ren)他“沉雄瑰麗,實(shi)未易(yi)才(cai)”。
明(ming)代(dai)詩歌(ge)(ge)(ge)自高啟去(qu)世之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)后就(jiu)陷(xian)入了長(chang)期的低(di)迷狀態,陳(chen)子龍崛起于東(dong)南文壇,不僅終結(jie)了明(ming)朝(chao)詩歌(ge)(ge)(ge)藝術(shu)近三百(bai)年的衰(shuai)微狀態,而且(qie)也(ye)是開(kai)創(chuang)清初詩歌(ge)(ge)(ge)抒寫性情、反映現實新風(feng)較早(zao)的一個大(da)詩人(ren)。清代(dai)康熙年間(jian)著名詩人(ren)、詞(ci)人(ren)朱彝尊(zun)在編選《明(ming)詩綜》,高度評價陳(chen)子龍在恢(hui)復詩歌(ge)(ge)(ge)大(da)雅傳統(tong)的功績:“王(wang)李教衰(shuai),公安之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)派浸廣,竟陵之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)焰(yan)頓興,一時好(hao)異者,诪張(zhang)(zhang)為幻。關(guan)中文太清倡堅(jian)偽(wei)離(li)奇之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)言,致刪改《三百(bai)篇》之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)章句;山陰王(wang)季重寄(ji)謔浪笑傲之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)體(ti),不免綠衣蒼鶻之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)儀容。如(ru)帝釋既遠,修(xiu)羅藥叉,交起搏戰,日輪就(jiu)暝,鵩子鶚母,四野(ye)群飛。臥子張(zhang)(zhang)以太陰之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)弓,射以枉矢,腰鼓百(bai)面,破盡蒼蠅蟋蟀之(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)(zhi)聲,其功不可沒也(ye)。”
對于陳子(zi)龍(long)在詩(shi)歌方面(mian)正(zheng)本清源的作用(yong),錢瞻百也(ye)有(you)類似(si)評價:“大(da)樽(陳子(zi)龍(long))當(dang)詩(shi)學榛蕪之(zhi)余,力(li)辟正(zheng)始,一時宗尚,遂使群才蔚起(qi),與弘、正(zheng)比隆,摧廓振興之(zhi)功,斯(si)為(wei)極矣。”
繆天(tian)自持類似觀點:“剝極(ji)而反,否極(ji)而復(fu),先征于(yu)聲音之道(dao),臥子(zi)當楚人眾咻之余,力(li)追正始,允矣人豪。”
龔蘅圃則(ze)針對(dui)那(nei)些將陳(chen)子龍(long)與(yu)前后七子一并批評者提(ti)出見解:“若詩當(dang)公(gong)安、竟陵之后,雅音漸(jian)亡(wang),曼(man)聲并作,大樽力返于正,翦其榛蕪荊棘,驅其狐(hu)貍貒貉,廓清之功,詎可借口七子流派,并攢譏(ji)及焉?”
康(kang)熙年(nian)間詩壇(tan)領袖王(wang)士禛(與(yu)朱(zhu)彝尊并(bing)稱“南朱(zhu)北王(wang)”)更是對陳子龍(long)的詩歌(ge)推崇備至,在(zai)《香祖筆記》中評價其(qi)詩:“沉雄瑰麗,近代(dai)作(zuo)者未見其(qi)比,殆冠古之(zhi)才。一時瑜亮,獨有梅(mei)村(吳(wu)偉業)耳。”陳子龍(long)在(zai)結合(he)齊(qi)梁(liang)與(yu)三唐(tang)風(feng)格方面(mian)的努(nu)力(li)深(shen)刻影(ying)響了同(tong)時代(dai)的大詩人(ren)吳(wu)偉業。吳(wu)偉業初學(xue)宋枚,以杜甫詩歌(ge)質樸一面(mian)為宗,后在(zai)陳子龍(long)影(ying)響下(xia),全面(mian)吸(xi)收齊(qi)梁(liang)與(yu)初唐(tang)四杰之(zhi)詩風(feng),結合(he)白居(ju)易等人(ren)之(zhi)敘事詩風(feng)格,融入(ru)傳奇小說筆法,終成(cheng)自具面(mian)目之(zhi)“梅(mei)村體”,對清代(dai)詩歌(ge)造成(cheng)深(shen)遠影(ying)響。
清同治年間(jian)詩(shi)(shi)(shi)人朱彭年賦(fu)詩(shi)(shi)(shi)評價吳(wu)偉業:“妙年詞賦(fu)黃(huang)門(men)亞,復社云(yun)間(jian)孰繼(ji)聲(sheng)?一自鼎湖龍去(qu)后,興亡凄絕庾蘭(lan)成”。此詩(shi)(shi)(shi)認(ren)為吳(wu)偉業詩(shi)(shi)(shi)繼(ji)承了明末(mo)云(yun)間(jian)詩(shi)(shi)(shi)派陳子龍之風(feng)格(ge)。(按:黃(huang)門(men),陳子龍曾(ceng)任兵(bing)科給事中(zhong),黃(huang)門(men)是“給事中(zhong)”代稱。)
后代(dai)(dai)學者所(suo)論述(shu)的(de)“梅村體”的(de)五(wu)大特征(zheng)即詩史(shi)特則(ze)、頻繁轉韻、歌(ge)行中(zhong)多用(yong)律句(ju)、用(yong)典較(jiao)多、敘事特征(zheng),其中(zhong)四(si)大特征(zheng)都(dou)可以在陳(chen)子(zi)龍七(qi)言歌(ge)行中(zhong)找到(dao)。這四(si)個特征(zheng)在初唐四(si)杰的(de)詩歌(ge)中(zhong)已經(jing)(jing)基本具(ju)(ju)備(bei)(如初唐四(si)杰之一的(de)盧照(zhao)鄰,其名篇《長安古(gu)意》,富麗(li)精(jing)工,典雅絕倫,除(chu)詩史(shi)特征(zheng)不夠明顯外(wai),已經(jing)(jing)完全具(ju)(ju)備(bei)以上所(suo)說四(si)大特征(zheng)),陳(chen)子(zi)龍是直接(jie)繼承者,然后影響了吳偉(wei)業。必須強調的(de)是,明代(dai)(dai)中(zhong)期何景明在好友楊慎影響下也已經(jing)(jing)涉足這類作(zuo)品(見(jian)《明月(yue)篇》并序)。
陳(chen)子龍與吳(wu)偉業(ye)的(de)歌(ge)(ge)行在以(yi)上四個方(fang)面難分伯(bo)仲,陳(chen)子龍勝(sheng)在雄麗有骨,吳(wu)偉業(ye)勝(sheng)在高(gao)超的(de)“敘(xu)(xu)(xu)(xu)事(shi)”風(feng)格(ge)(ge)(ge)。陳(chen)子龍的(de)敘(xu)(xu)(xu)(xu)事(shi)詩仍(reng)然以(yi)唐代之(zhi)前敘(xu)(xu)(xu)(xu)事(shi)詩風(feng)格(ge)(ge)(ge)為宗且(qie)數量(liang)極(ji)少(如《大梁行》、《紫(zi)玉歌(ge)(ge)》),而吳(wu)偉業(ye)則基(ji)本上依賴敘(xu)(xu)(xu)(xu)事(shi)詩成(cheng)名,敘(xu)(xu)(xu)(xu)事(shi)風(feng)格(ge)(ge)(ge)不僅熔鑄了白居易等(deng)人的(de)“長慶體”,而且(qie)采用插敘(xu)(xu)(xu)(xu)、倒敘(xu)(xu)(xu)(xu)等(deng)一系列明清小說(shuo)和戲劇中(zhong)具(ju)有的(de)敘(xu)(xu)(xu)(xu)事(shi)技巧(qiao),從而自成(cheng)新吟,成(cheng)為婁東(dong)派首(shou)領,與云間派首(shou)領陳(chen)子龍、虞(yu)山(shan)派首(shou)領錢謙益在明末清初詩壇鼎足而三。
陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)殉國多年(nian)之(zhi)(zhi)后之(zhi)(zhi)后,吳偉業仍在《梅(mei)村詩(shi)(shi)(shi)話》中(zhong)(zhong)(zhong)評(ping)價(jia)(jia)陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long):“臥子(zi)(陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long))負曠世逸才(cai)……。其四六(liu)跨徐(xu)、庾,論策視二蘇(su),詩(shi)(shi)(shi)特高華雄渾,睥睨一(yi)(yi)世。……當是(shi)時(shi),幾社(she)名(ming)聞(wen)天下(xia)。臥子(zi)眼光奕奕,意(yi)氣籠罩(zhao)千人,見者(zhe)莫不辟易(yi)。登臨贈(zeng)答,淋漓(li)慷慨,雖(sui)百世后猶(you)想見其人也。”并且回(hui)憶二人在京城(cheng)論詩(shi)(shi)(shi)情景:“嘗與余(yu)宿(su)京邸,夜半謂余(yu)曰:‘卿詩(shi)(shi)(shi)絕似李頎。’又(you)誦(song)余(yu)《雒(luo)陽行》一(yi)(yi)篇,謂為(wei)(wei)合作。余(yu)曰:‘卿詩(shi)(shi)(shi)固佳,何(he)首為(wei)(wei)第一(yi)(yi)?’臥子(zi)曰:‘“苑內起山(shan)名(ming)萬歲(sui),閣(ge)中(zhong)(zhong)(zhong)新(xin)戲(xi)號千秋(qiu)”,此余(yu)中(zhong)(zhong)(zhong)聯(lian)得意(yi)語也。“祠(ci)官流(liu)涕松風路(lu),回(hui)首長陵(ling)出(chu)塞年(nian)”,又(you)“李氏功(gong)名(ming)猶(you)帶礪,斷(duan)垣落日(ri)海云黃”,此余(yu)結法可誦(song)者(zhe)也。’余(yu)贊嘆久(jiu)之(zhi)(zhi)。晚歲(sui)與夏考(kao)功(gong)相期死國事,考(kao)功(gong)先(xian)赴水死,臥子(zi)為(wei)(wei)書(shu)報考(kao)功(gong)于(yu)地下(xia),誓必相從(cong),文絕可觀。……”對(dui)于(yu)陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)詩(shi)(shi)(shi)歌成就,著(zhu)名(ming)學者(zhe)錢鐘(zhong)書(shu)先(xian)生在《談藝(yi)錄》中(zhong)(zhong)(zhong)有過中(zhong)(zhong)(zhong)肯評(ping)價(jia)(jia):“陳(chen)(chen)臥子(zi)大才(cai)健筆,足(zu)殿明詩(shi)(shi)(shi)而無愧,又(you)丁百六(liu)陽九(jiu)之(zhi)(zhi)會(hui),天意(yi)昌(chang)詩(shi)(shi)(shi),宜若(ruo)可以(yi)悲壯蒼(cang)涼,上繼簡齋、遺山(shan)之(zhi)(zhi)學杜”,以(yi)“天意(yi)昌(chang)詩(shi)(shi)(shi)”評(ping)價(jia)(jia)陳(chen)(chen)子(zi)龍(long)為(wei)(wei)代表的烈士詩(shi)(shi)(shi)人與遺民詩(shi)(shi)(shi)人之(zhi)(zhi)出(chu)現,足(zu)見評(ping)價(jia)(jia)之(zhi)(zhi)高。
在(zai)《談藝錄》中,錢鐘書(shu)先(xian)生(sheng)還對陳子(zi)龍一些詩歌名(ming)聯進行匯(hui)總:“陳臥子(zi)結有明三百年唐(tang)詩之(zhi)局(ju),其名(ming)聯如‘禹(yu)陵風雨思王(wang)會,越國山川(chuan)出(chu)霸才’(《錢塘東(dong)望》)‘左徒舊宅猶(you)蘭圃(pu),中散荒(huang)園尚竹林’(《重游弇園》)‘九天星宿(su)開秦(qin)塞,萬國梯航走冀方’(《送(song)張玉笥》)及(ji)《香祖(zu)筆記》卷二所稱之(zhi)‘四塞山河歸漢關,二陵風雨送(song)秦(qin)師’,‘石(shi)顯(xian)上賓居柳市,竇嬰(ying)別(bie)業在(zai)藍田。’皆(jie)比類人地,為(wei)撐拄開闔。