Shao Shi Wen Jian Hou Lu -- Collected Series of Historical Records and Notes from Different Dynasties

Author: Shao Bo
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 1983-08-01
Features: Shao Shi Wen Jian Hou Lu (Thirty Volumes), also known as Wen Jian Hou Lu, is recorded in the Zi Bu Xue Jia Lei (Category of Fictionists) in Zhi Zhai Shu Lu Jie Ti (A Catalogue of Books by Zhi Zhai) and included in the Zi Bu Xue Jia Lei (Category of Fictionists) of Si Ku Quan Shu (The Complete Library of the Four Treasuries). Si Ku Quan Shu Zong Mu Ti Wei (A General Outline of the Si Ku Quan Shu) states: "This work is a continuation of his father's book, hence the title Hou Lu. Some entries on the restoration of Meng Hou are also repeated in Qian Lu. However, Bo Wen's records of major court policies are valuable for historical accounts. This book also covers interpretations of classics, historical discussions, poetry critiques, and includes elements of supernatural tales and light-hearted humor, making it more miscellaneous than Qian Lu." It also praises: "His discussions on poetry are also rich in insights." According to his preface, the book was completed in the 27th year of the Shaoxing era (1157). Shao Bo argues that poetry should not only rely on established precedents but also introduce originality. For example, he states, "Ancient poets often use familiar phrases or similar expressions," asking, "Could they have plagiarized each other?" While others admire Du Fu's poetry for its foundations, Shao Bo claims: "Du Fu's ability to stand out for a thousand years is not just because he had foundations." The book provides detailed explorations of obscure terms and classical references, such as examining "Er Ba Fei Quan Rao Chi Han" (the meaning of "Er Ba"), "Da Dao Tou," explaining Du Fu's Yin Zhong Ba Xian Ge (Song of the Eight Immortals in Drinking), and Zeng Wei Zuo Cheng (To Wei Zuo Cheng), among others, all of which are valuable contributions. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of accuracy in using allusions, even while praising Su Shi, he points out his errors in their use. Furthermore, his discussions on the line "Alone, the oil lamp is lit, yet sleep does not come" from The Song of Everlasting Sorrow, his analysis of Wang Anshi's technique of piecing together lines, and his records of poets' anecdotes and poetic origins are also worth referencing.