Contemporary Chinese Poetry

This book, first published in 1947, is a collection of Chinese poetry from a time when it was entering a new world, where the old poetic traditions were being abandoned. The new voices were powerful, realistic, and even brutal.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 166 pages
Publication date: 15 October 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book, first published in 1947, is a collection of Chinese poetry from a period of immense transformation when the ancient poetic traditions were discarded and a new world emerged. The poetry featured in this anthology reflects the powerful, realistic, and sometimes brutal voices of a new generation of poets. Gone were the days when Chinese poetry was considered the graceful accomplishment of retired sages. Instead, the new voices were bold, unapologetic, and eager to express their thoughts and experiences in a fresh and innovative way.

The anthology spans a wide range of styles and themes, from the traditional lyrical poems to the more experimental and avant-garde works. It includes works by renowned poets such as Li Bai, Du Mu, and Wang Wei, as well as lesser-known figures who made significant contributions to the development of Chinese poetry during this period.

One of the most striking features of the poetry in this anthology is its raw emotionality. The poets were not afraid to delve into the darker aspects of human experience, including love, loss, pain, and social injustice. They used vivid imagery and powerful language to convey their messages, creating a sense of urgency and authenticity that resonated with readers.

Another notable aspect of the poetry is its exploration of the natural world. The poets were deeply influenced by the beauty and complexity of the natural world, and they used their poetry to celebrate and lament its wonders. They wrote about mountains, rivers, trees, birds, and insects, capturing their essence in vivid and evocative prose.

Despite the challenges and uncertainties of the period, the poetry in this anthology demonstrates a sense of hope and resilience. The poets were determined to forge a new path for Chinese poetry, and they used their creativity and passion to inspire others to join them in this endeavor.

In conclusion, this book is a valuable contribution to the study of Chinese poetry and culture. It provides a glimpse into the transformative period when Chinese poetry entered a new world, and it showcases the powerful and innovative voices of a new generation of poets. The poetry in this anthology is raw, emotional, and deeply reflective of the human experience, and it continues to inspire readers today.

Weight: 312g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032245478