Expression of the poet's face while parting from her mother:

Introduction:
In the poem "The Ballad of Mulan" translated by Hannah Flagg Gould, the poet describes the moment of parting between Mulan and her mother. This poignant scene evokes a specific expression on the poet's face, which can be identified as "smiling" based on the context and emotions conveyed in the poem.

Contextual Analysis:
1. Mulan's Decision: Mulan's decision to take her father's place in the army is a courageous and selfless act. She leaves behind her family, including her mother, to protect them from harm and to serve her country.
2. Emotional Atmosphere: The poem portrays a bittersweet atmosphere filled with love, sacrifice, and the longing for reunion. It highlights the deep bond between Mulan and her mother, making the moment of parting emotionally charged.
3. Lines from the Poem: The poet describes Mulan's expression as a "smile," which suggests a sense of bravery, determination, and optimism despite the difficult circumstances. This smile reflects Mulan's resolve to fulfill her duty and her desire to bring honor to her family.

Interpretation:
1. Bravery and Determination: Mulan's smile can be seen as an expression of her bravery and determination to face the challenges ahead. It shows that she is willing to endure hardships and sacrifices for the greater good.
2. Optimism and Hope: Mulan's smile also reflects her optimism and hope for a successful outcome. It signifies her belief in her own abilities and her confidence in making a difference.
3. Concealing Emotions: Furthermore, Mulan's smile may serve as a way to hide her true emotions from her mother. She does not want her mother to worry or feel guilty about her departure. Instead, Mulan chooses to project strength and reassurance through her smile.

Conclusion:
In the context of the poem "The Ballad of Mulan," the expression of the poet's face while parting from her mother can be identified as "smiling." This smile represents Mulan's bravery, determination, optimism, and her desire to protect her mother from any worries. It encapsulates the complex emotions and sacrifices Mulan makes as she embarks on her journey to serve her country and bring honor to her family.