Song Lyrics Three Hundred Selected and Annotated -- Color Illustration Series of Three Hundred Selected Poems

Author: Li Miao (Translated and Edited by)
Publisher:
Publication Date: 2005-01-01
Features: Ci poetry is an important form of Chinese literature, and the Song Dynasty was a period when Ci creation achieved great success. As predecessors said, "each era has its own literature," then Ci is the most representative genre of Song literature. Ci is also known as Changduanju (variable-length sentences) or Quzici (song lyrics), and it originated around the mid-Tang Dynasty, maturing in the Northern Song Dynasty. The development of Ci is closely related to music; its tunes can be set to music and sung. The influence of music became one of the key factors determining the stylistic features of Ci. Ci studies flourished during the two Song Dynasties. When reading the Ci of Song Dynasty poets, one should seek both the style and the spirit, with style being particularly important. The ideal of "harmonious perfection" is a must for scholars to strive for, and there is even a higher realm beyond harmonious perfection, which cannot be attained without effort—it depends on one's academic capabilities. The spirit originates from one's nature and soul; once the style reaches its utmost perfection, it naturally radiates a clear and fragrant aura that cannot be concealed. In modern times, some people pursue minor charm and fleeting beauty in Ci, which has led to a decline in the respect for this art form. Many have spent half their lives dabbling in it without truly grasping the essence of Song Dynasty masters, let alone the inner sanctum. I have never heard of anyone who could meet the ancient masters in spirit, gather and select the finest works, and provide a guide for those who wish to study this art. The translation, annotations, and critiques in this book are all aimed at the concept of "excellence." In the modern translation, like "Three Hundred Poems of Tang," a one-to-one correspondence is adopted.