Song Ci comments

Author: Gao Jianzhong
Commentator:
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-05-02
Features: The term "ci" (a type of lyrical poetry) is a later development. Originally, it was a song text set to music, initially named "qu" (a piece of music), then "quzi ci" (song lyrics), and later also known as "yuefu" (a type of poetic form), "jintilu yuefu" (near-body yuefu), "yusheng yuefu" (sentimental yuefu), "yuezhang" (musical chapters), "quge" (songs), "qinxu" (, musical interests), "shiyu" (, leftover poetry), "chuanzhuangju" (, varying-length sentences), and "yuye" (, verbal arts). These synonyms reflect the unique characteristics of "ci" from the perspective of musical connections and formal features. The genre of "ci" flourished in the Tang Dynasty and reached its peak in the Song Dynasty. There are currently over 20,800 extant Song Dynasty "ci" poems, with 1,400+ poets whose names are known. The works are as abundant as flowers in bloom, with masterpieces scattered like forests. This book selects only 143 pieces, offering but a small taste of the genre. However, it is hoped that this taste will resist the urge to gulp down the whole, and instead embrace a more leisurely and elegant approach. Reading poetry requires careful savoring, and so does reading "ci," perhaps even more so. The heart of "ci" awaits a meeting, and the springs of the mind need to be listened to. It may be better to soften the cold, detached analysis and instead try a more equal, contemplative exchange.