Book Rhyme Series (Third Issue)

Author: (Qing) Nalan Xingde
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2002-12-01
Features: The "jinxiang" (pocket) edition originated in the Southern Qi Dynasty and flourished during the Song Dynasty. From the Ming and Qing dynasties onwards, new designs emerged in each generation. The term "jinxiang" refers to the small boxes used in ancient times to store handkerchiefs and other miscellaneous items. The ancients read at any time, whether sitting or lying down, and always carried books with them. Therefore, the size of these books was reduced to fit into the jinxiang, making them portable for travel and convenient for reading at rest. Leisurely, one could browse through them. Thus, although the jinxiang edition is the youngest among books, it upholds the principle of Confucius's "Learn and practice in due time," and its contribution is significant. Regrettably, in modern times, with the influence of Western culture, books have adopted Western bindings, becoming increasingly elaborate and cumbersome. Carrying them is like a burden for an ox, and reading in bed is difficult even for a short time. Worse still, some are outwardly rich but inwardly hollow, with heavy cases and lightweight content, misleading readers and drifting farther from the true essence of books. The Ancient Shang Society's jinxiang edition series was created with purpose, learning from the successes and failures of jinxiang editions throughout history. It aims to return to simplicity and elegance, promoting national culture; the design should be small yet complete, the price affordable yet selecting high-quality versions, the selection appropriate yet emphasizing personality and charm, and the organization logical yet allowing for individual purchases that delight the reader. Enhanced with fragrant paper, colorful printing, meticulous proofreading, and dynamic layouts, this series is a testament to the effort and dedication invested in small compilations, making them irresistible upon first sight. Mountains need not be high to be divine; books need not be expensive to possess charm. Therefore, the series is named "Shuyun Lou" (Book Charm Tower), and refined gentlemen will surely appreciate its essence. This preface is written in this regard. This package includes three works: "Ci of the Two Lords of Southern Tang," "Ci of Lei Yu," and "Ci of Nalan Xingde."