Three Hundred Tang Poems in Pictures and Text

Author: Xu Jianzhong, Wang Jun
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2003-04-01
Features: The selected works of writers in this book cover a wide range and depth. The criteria for selection are based on the quality of the works themselves, rather than the fame of the authors. Therefore, in addition to featuring works by renowned authors, the book may also include outstanding works by less-known poets, filling some gaps in the history of poetry that were previously overlooked. For example, the poem "Spring Outing Ode" by Wu Hong of the Southern Song Dynasty:
"Whispers of birds amid misty light,
People stroll through grassy green.
Suddenly scattered by the pond’s edge,
They meet again beneath the flowers."
These four concise lines vividly depict the enchanting scene of spring’s return, with birdsong and fragrant blossoms. Past critics often overlooked the artistic achievement of this poem, but here it is unearthed like a gem, presented to readers, showcasing the compilers’ discerning taste. As a specialized anthology of quatrains by dynasties, most compilers typically only select five-character and seven-character quatrains. However, this book stands out by not only focusing on five-character and seven-character quatrains but also pioneering the inclusion of six-character quatrains, truly setting a new precedent. For instance, the poem "Spring Tune of Three Platforms" by Xu Daishi:
"Last night, a gentle breeze and light rain,
Today, a thin haze with mild chill.
A bird’s cry outside the eaves,
Announcing the safety of flowers and willows."
The poem’s fresh imagery reveals genuine emotion through simple language, demonstrating the enduring charm and readability of six-character quatrains. Another creative aspect of this book is the pairing of paintings with poems. Ancient masterpieces from the Tang, Song, Ming, and Qing dynasties are paired with the selected poems, creating a harmonious blend of text and image. This not only aids in understanding the poem’s meaning but also enhances reading interest, making it captivating.