Human Words (Illustrated Treasure Edition)

Author: Wang Guowei
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2005-09-01
Features: As a work of literary criticism, it excels in both understanding and detachment. One must be in the thick of things to know the sweet and bitter firsthand; yet one must also stand outside to offer impartial judgment. This book discusses the cultivation of poets, stating, "One must enter into their world to write about it; one must step outside to observe it." I also hold this view on literary criticism. Though there have been many works on poetry, few can combine both of these qualities. This is the true value of Human Words. The book is filled with profound insights into the sweet and bitter, the heart's delight, and the importance of appropriateness—all things that can only be expressed by someone with a vast knowledge. Readers should savor it deeply, not dismiss it as trivial. In fact, the hints and threads suggested in the book, if expanded upon, could form a vast and monumental work, though its charm might diminish. Pearls and jade feathers are everywhere to be picked up, all treasures; yet arranging them into a seven-jeweled pavilion only adds unnecessary appendages. This is why short diary entries and notes in various styles are cherished—not because masterpieces have appeared in the world, causing them to fade into obscurity.
The author discusses Ci poetry by highlighting the concept of "" (artistic realm) and distinguishes between "" (obstructed) and "" (unobstructed) in Ci poetry. He also claims that the Southern Song Dynasty falls short of the Northern Song, with only Xin You'an (Xin Qiji) being its equal. All such critical judgments are fair, exquisite, and perfectly balanced, leaving no room for (superfluousness). I once thought of elaborating on its meaning, but feared it might be like defiling a Buddha's head, so I ultimately did not. Now, the colleagues of Pu She have reprinted this book, and I have appended this short preface to introduce it to readers.