Dictionary of Appreciation of Thousand-Family Poems

Author: Meng Wanfu, Yan Qi, Chen Xuwàn
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2006-01-01
Features: Although the book is titled A Thousand Poems, it actually includes only two poems by Ming Dynasty authors, totaling 119 authors and 224 poems from the Tang and Song dynasties. This represents only a very small portion of all Tang and Song poetry. Moreover, the book was originally compiled for children's enlightenment, with selections of short, concise, and easily recited five- and seven-character regulated verse. In terms of form and style, it cannot fully display the rich diversity of poetry. However, since most of the selected poems are famous and widely celebrated masterpieces that have been passed down through generations, they still serve as a glimpse into the essence of Tang and Song poetry, as well as the valuable tradition of Chinese poetry. Therefore, the publication of this Comprehensive Appreciation Dictionary of A Thousand Poems carries an undeniable significance. The book includes modern translations, which remove obstacles for readers, and also provides appreciative insights to help readers perceive and grasp the deeper meanings and artistic experiences of the works. I only say "help" here because appreciating poetry, like appreciating other literary works, involves a process of repeated creation and reevaluation. The specific aesthetic objects presented to readers by the poets—such as language, structure, atmosphere, and artistic conception— have a restrictive effect on readers. However, this restriction is not like a mirror reflecting an image—it is not a rigid or uniform reflection.