Leisurely Interludes with Illustrations and Annotations

Author: Li Yu of the Qing Dynasty, edited by Zhang Ping
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2005-03-02
Features: A Treatise on Delight in the Arts is a work of personal reflection, encompassing theatrical theory, aesthetic sensibilities, construction techniques, dietary structures, leisurely pursuits, physical and mental cultivation, and other aspects. It essentially summarizes his social life practices and reflects his personal refinement and life interests. Li Yu thought of what others had not thought, discussed what others had not discussed, and found joy in what others had not found. Its fascinating insights and enduring charm made it, upon publication, shock the literary world, leading many to view him as an eccentric or strange figure. Since its first engraving in 1671 by the Wing-Sheng Tang, numerous reprints have emerged, spreading widely. The titles of A Treatise on Delight in the Arts also include The Complete Sayings of Master Li and Random Notes of Master Li. The content remains largely consistent, though occasional errors may occur. This edition is based on the stone-printed version of the Bao-Wen Tang from the 1930s, with reference to other popular editions for correction. The best choices were adopted without annotations. The marginal notes have been revised into comments, listed after each chapter. Due to the concise and often arbitrary nature of the marginal notes, it is difficult to determine which part or sentence they refer to. Thus, the comment numbers serve merely as reading aids for the readers. The dictionary section, being highly specialized, has been moved to the back. Any inaccuracies are hoped to be understood.