Classic of Poetry: Shijing

by Zhou Gong

The Classic of Poetry is the oldest existing collection of Chinese poetry, comprising 305 works dating from the 11th to 7th centuries BC. It is one of the "Five Classics" traditionally said to have been compiled by Confucius, and has been studied and memorized by scholars in China and neighboring countries over two millennia. Since the Qing dynasty, its rhyme patterns have also been analysed in the study of Old Chinese phonology. The content of the Poetry can be divided into two main the "Airs of the States", and the eulogies and hymns. The "Airs of the States" are shorter lyrics in simple language that are generally ancient folk songs; while the "Eulogies" section tend to be longer ritual or sacrificial songs, usually in the forms of courtly panegyrics and dynastic hymns.

Genres: Poetry, China

162 pages, Paperback

First published February 20, 2014

Reviews

[Valkyrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Something really touching about reading old poetry like this. The same human concerns I have are the ones they had thousands of years ago. It’s beautiful.

“If along the high road I caught hold of your sleeve, do not hate me; old ways take time to overcome. If along the high road I caught hold of your hand, do not be angry with me; friendship takes time to overcome”

[Jesse L · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read 100 of these poems in the “State” section. The notes really help to make the English as close to the original Chinese as possible. The metaphors used in the poems are stunning.