Han and Wei, Six Dynasties Xiao Fu Translation, Annotations and Comments

Author: Wu Yun
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2006-01-01
Features: The fu is a highly inclusive special literary form that combines the characteristics of both poetry and prose. The Shaoshi fu is very close to poetry, while the Sanshi fu is closer to prose. This literary form emerged in the late Warring States period. Its origins are neither entirely derived from the Book of Songs nor entirely from the Chuci or the School of Diplomacy. In the process of its development, we can see the influence of the Book of Songs, as well as the features of the Chuci and the School of Diplomacy. It is both like poetry and like prose, benefiting from both. Sometimes, just like prose, it ends with a section titled "A Song Says," which is poetry appended to prose. In the history of the fu, Xun Qing's Fu Chapters from the Warring States period were the first to be titled with "fu." The Han Dynasty inherited this meaning, and all forms of cifu were henceforth referred to as "fu." The emergence of the grand fu in the Han Dynasty was closely related to the unprecedented unity, prosperity, and material and spiritual life that followed the entry of the Chinese nation into a civilized society. On the other hand, the emergence of the small fu was connected to the internal conflicts within the ruling class and the experiences of scholars. The fu was the dominant literary form during the Han, Wei, and Six Dynasties periods, with the small fu being the essence of the fu. Historically, literary historians have extensively discussed the Book of Songs, the Chuci, Tang poetry, Song ci, Yuan qu, and Ming-Qing novels, which is undoubtedly correct. However, it is a pity that the fu of the Han, Wei, and Six Dynasties periods has not been given enough attention. We should restore the rightful place of the fu, especially the small fu, which will help preserve our fine literary heritage and enhance the confidence of the Chinese nation.