Classical Chinese Treasures · Three Hundred Poems of Song

Author: (Qing) Shangqiang Village Resident
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2005-08-01
Features: The study of Ci poetry reached its peak during the Song Dynasty. When reading Song Dynasty Ci, one should seek its style and spiritual essence, with style being particularly important. The ideal of achieving a natural and harmonious whole is a must for scholars to strive for. There is even a higher level beyond this, which cannot be attained hastily—it depends on one's academic effort. The spiritual essence originates from one's nature, representing the most exquisite style, accumulating to become a radiant and fragrant aura that cannot be concealed. In recent times, some have valued petty cleverness and excessive charm in Ci, leading to the decline of this art. Many spend half their lives without glimpsing the path of the Song masters, let alone the inner sanctum! I have never heard of anyone who could meet the ancients in spirit, select their finest works, and serve as a guide for those who wish to learn. Mr. Shangqiang once selected Three Hundred Poems of Song Ci as a study aid for his young disciple, Ruan Yixin. His selection focused on style and spiritual essence, with the aim of achieving natural harmony. While natural harmony is not yet the ultimate goal, those who can follow the path within these three hundred poems will surely be able to draw from a broader range of works beyond them. By seeking divine inspiration and transformation beyond the words, there will be an invisible convergence and natural creation between style and spiritual essence, further advancing beyond natural harmony. Yet this is still not the end. For a pursuit without limits, must not its foundation be firmly laid? Thus, Mr. Shangqiang's selection should be a must-have for anyone who loves Ci.