Ouzhai Poetry Collection (Vol. 1 & 2)

Author: Qi Ting, edited by Nie Shimei
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-12-01
Features: In the late Qing poetry scene, where the stars were numerous, Baoting was a brilliant star shining with unique radiance. This was not only because he was of noble birth, belonging to the imperial lineage, and of high status, but also because his extraordinary and unrestrained poetry surpassed all others, subtly wearing the crown of the Manchu poet. At the same time, he was also admired for his integrity as an official. In the early years of the Guangxu reign, he and Chen Baochen, Zhang Peilun, Deng Chengxiu, and others encouraged and respected each other with their literary talent and moral integrity. He frequently submitted memorial essays, offering many suggestions. He spoke frankly and dared to criticize, his voice shaking both the court and the public. Although his efforts were futile in preventing the impending collapse of the great house, his towering and pure character earned him the respect of the entire court for the "Four Counselors," making him a rare bright spot in the pitch-black political landscape of the late Qing dynasty.
Secondly, Baoting's life was full of legendary charm. He was deeply devoted to poetry and wine, loving them as if they were his life. Aisin Gioro Baoting, styled Zhongxian, styled Zupo, and later self-styled Ouzhai, had a life full of. Born into nobility but not attached to power, he remained devoted to poetry and wine even in poverty and illness. Unconventional in his words and deeds, he often surprised people. Baoting wrote over 2,000 poems in his lifetime, excelling in all styles, particularly in long narrative poems in five-and-seven-character lines, which were full of vigor and expressive. For example, his poem "Record of a Journey in Western Hills" is over 2,900 characters long and is considered a masterpiece of ancient and modern poetry. As a result, Baoting earned the reputation of a Manchu poet and held a high position in modern poetry. Our press's first comprehensive collection and publication of Baoting's poetry will not only promote the study of modern literature but also provide rich historical materials reflecting the social reality of the time. These will be of positive reference value for the study of modern Chinese politics, history, economy, and culture.