Tao Yuanming

Author: Yang Yi, Shao Ningning (selection, translation, and commentary)
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2005-08-01
Features: Tao Yuanming is almost a household name in China. Almost anyone with a middle school education has read his "Journey to the Peach Blossom Spring," and many can recite a line or two of his poetry, such as "Picking chrysanthemums under the eastern fence, I leisurely see the southern mountain," or tell the story of how he refused to bow his head for five bushels of rice. Tao Yuanming's poetry is gentle and serene, and his prose and fu (rhapsodies) possess a unique simplicity and natural charm. Tao Yuanming's writings represent a culture, embodying the warm, refreshing, and tranquil spirit of nature and the countryside. Beside the often hot or rigid mainstream culture throughout history, his works have brought people a sense of comfort and freedom to their hearts. This book is one of the illustrated classics of Chinese poetry and prose. Selected by Yang Yi, a renowned scholar and former director of the Institute of Literature and the Institute of Ethnic Literature at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, this book includes thirty-one of Tao Yuanming's poems, "Journey to the Peach Blossom Spring," and "Toward Home," along with annotations, explanations, and critiques to help you understand this famous poet, recluse, and the founder of pastoral literature in Chinese history. Additionally, the book features illustrations of Tao Yuanming's poetry by previous artists, as well as other visual materials related to him, making it even more exquisite.