Universe in a Poem

Author: Cui Moqing
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-12-01
Features: "Poetry in the Universe" is a new poetry collection by the poet Cui Moqing, or rather a collection of poems and essays, as each poem is accompanied by an introduction to the scenic spots, historical sites, and cultural relics, along with the author's reflections—a beautifully written prose that complements the poetry, offering readers a fresh and engaging experience. This collection features nearly fifty locations, with the author passionately composing odes to every place they visit. Through the poet's pen, we journey from the West Hills of Beijing, where the author grew up and is deeply familiar with, to the vast Qin Basin; from Suzhou to Shaoxing; from Yangzhou to Huangshan; from Ningbo to Hainan; from Luoyang to Shenzhen; from the White Emperor City to Dujiangyan. This allows us to appreciate the poetic landscapes and natural wonders while feeling the poet's fervent emotions. Without love for the motherland and a full heart of passion, such touching poems could not have been written. For poetry is the elevation of emotion, the flame of emotion, the crystallization of emotion. Over the decades of his poetic career, Cui Moqing has placed great emphasis on learning from classical Chinese poetry, drawing nourishment and techniques from it. His poems are crafted using "traditional" methods. This approach, widely favored by readers, is evident in "Poetry in the Universe," characterized by clear themes, rigorous artistic composition, accessibility, and a melodic quality that is both artistically pleasing and intellectually enlightening. "Only monuments etched in the hearts of the people will stand the test of a thousand years" ("The Temple of the Two Kings in Dujiangyan"), "All faithless men / Who pass before you / Will feel utterly ashamed" ("Shennong Peak"). These philosophical insights, distilled from emotion, resonate deeply with readers.