The Poetry of Han-shan: A Complete, Annotated Translation of Cold Mountain (Buddhist Studies

by Robert G. Henricks

This is an annotated English translation of the poetry of Han-shan (Cold Mountain), a 7th or 8th century Chinese Buddhist recluse who wrote many poems about his life alone in the hills. Many of his poems describe the mountains where he lived in dramatic, yet appealing terms, while at the same time symbolizing in Zen fashion the Buddhist quest for enlightenment. Han-shan became a cult figure in the Ch'an/Zen tradition, and legends portray him and his companion Shih-te as eccentrics who said and did nonsensical things. Han-shan does often write on unusual topics with some of his "poems" being clever insights that just happen to be metric and rhymed. His language is simple and direct; his images and symbols fresh and bold. While the literary value of his work has for the most part been overlooked, this book provides line-by-line literary analysis of some of the more artistically interesting poems. Henricks' work represents, therefore, a major contribution to the study of Chinese literature and Chinese religion.

Genres: Poetry, China

486 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 1990

Reviews

[Tom · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very different translation goal from Red Pine: Henricks aims for semantic and historical accuracy, frequently translating the annotations of the Chinese critical edition. Extremely helpful for an historical understanding of recluses in the Tang Dynasty, but ultimately loses the spirit of the poems. Red Pine seems to be much more in tune with Han Shan's attitude.

[Minerva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Meticulously annotated and researched translation. The text of the poetry is just the tip of the iceberg, and I felt that this book worked tirelessly to make sure I had enough context for each poem to appreciate and understand them.

[Tobias · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truly wonderful.