Tang and Song Poetry Anthology

Author: Guan Shiguang et al. (selected and annotated)
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2004-05-01
Features: The differences between Tang-style and Song-style poetry are a prominent phenomenon in the history of poetry. For general readers, Tang poetry reigns supreme and is undisputed; however, since the Southern Song Dynasty, there has been an ongoing debate in poetic theory about the superiority of Tang versus Song poetry. This shows that even if Ning's poetry is inferior to Tang poetry, it still has the qualification to compete with Tang poetry. It is said that "Tang and Song poets were all great figures, each achieving poetic excellence of their own era," and indeed, Tang and Song poetry have valid reasons to be mentioned together. Moreover, "Tang and Song poetry are not merely distinctions of dynasties but also differences in poetic styles and characteristics. There are two types of people in the world, and thus two types of poetry." "Since the Song Dynasty, talents have emerged one after another throughout the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, yet their works have not surpassed the scope of Tang and Song poetry, all falling within the realm of Tang and Song poetry." Therefore, the similarities and differences between Tang and Song poetry are not only related to the understanding of Tang and Song poetry itself but also serve as a major gateway to understanding ancient Chinese history. Now, we have selected poetry from these two dynasties, including the Five Dynasties and the Liao and Jin periods, into one book. This allows general readers to appreciate the beauty of both spring orchids and autumn chrysanthemums, each excelling in its own way, while also providing scholars with a reference for judging the achievements and characteristics of Tang and Song poetry and for researching the history of Chinese poetry.