Shi Pin Ji Jie, Xu Shi Pin Zhu - Selected Works of Chinese Classical Literary Theory and Criticism

Author: (Tang) Sikongtu, annotated by Guo Shaoyu, (Qing) Yuan Mei, compiled and annotated by Guo Shaoyu
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-12-01
Features: These two collections of poetry criticism, though distinct in purpose, differ in nature and content. One can be understood intuitively but is not easily explained, while the other is straightforward and does not require much explanation. Therefore, I have adopted different approaches for the two types of annotations. For the first, I have selected ancient interpretations that resonate closely, which are often clearer than verbose explanations. For the second, I have focused on Yuan Mei's annotations, particularly his "Yuan Yuan's Poetic Conversations," to highlight the essence.
Why does Sikongtu's "Poetic Criticisms" emphasize the "sublime realm"? In fact, one can trace some origins in the poetic styles of Tang poets. The ancients often compared Li Bai and Du Fu to rice and wheat. Du Fu's poetry was practical, making him the "sage of poetry"; Li Bai's was unrestrained, likening him to the "immortal of poetry." Wang Yuyang then paired Li Bai with Wang Wei, noting that Li Bai's poetry was rich in subtle beauty beyond mere words, detached yet present—thus Li Bai became the "buddha of poetry."
Why does Sikongtu's "Poetic Criticisms" emphasize the "sublime realm"? In fact, one can trace some origins in the poetic styles of Tang poets. The ancients often compared Li Bai and Du Fu to rice and wheat. Du Fu's poetry was practical, making him the "sage of poetry"; Li Bai's was unrestrained, likening him to the "immortal of poetry." Wang Yuyang then paired Li Bai with Wang Wei, noting that Li Bai's poetry was rich in subtle beauty beyond mere words, detached yet present—thus Li Bai became the "buddha of poetry."