Shao Shi Wen Jian Hou Lu

Author: (Song) Shao Bo
Publisher:
Publishing Date: Not available
Features: Shao Shi Wen Jian Hou Lu (Thirty Volumes), also known as Wen Jian Hou Lu, is recorded in the Zi Bu Xiao Jia category in Zhi Zhai Shu Lu Jie Ti and included in the Zi Bu Xiao Jia category of Si Ku Quan Shu. Si Ku Quan Shu Zong Mu Ti Wei states: "This compilation is a continuation of his father's work, hence the title Hou Lu. Some entries on restoring Meng Hou are also repeated in Qian Lu. However, Bo Wen's records of major court policies are valuable for historical accounts; this book also covers Confucian classics, historical discussions, poetry critiques, and includes elements of supernatural tales and light-hearted humor, making it more miscellaneous than Qian Lu." It also praises: "His poetry discussions are often insightful." According to his preface, the book was completed in the 27th year of the Shaoxing era (1157). Shao Bo argues that poetry should innovate beyond its sources, stating, "Ancient poets often used familiar phrases or similar expressions," asking, "Could they have plagiarized each other?" While others admire Du Fu's poetry for its foundation, Shao Bo claims: "Du Fu's ability to stand alone for a thousand years is not just because he had a foundation." The book provides detailed research on obscure terms and classical references, such as examining "Er Ba" in "Er Ba Fei Quan Rou Chi Han," "Da Dao Tou," explaining "Xian Bei Le Sheng Jiang Shi Xian" in Du Fu's Drinking with the Eight Immortals, and "Qi Xiao Gong Gong Xi" in To Wei Zuo Cheng, all of which are valuable contributions. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of accurate usage, even while praising Su Shi, it points out his errors in using references. Furthermore, discussions on the line "Alone, the oil lamp is lit, yet sleep does not come" in Song of the Liang Long, Wang Anshi's technique of compiling verses, and the anecdotes of poets and poetic origins recorded in the book are also worth referencing.