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The Book of Songs (Chinese-English Edition): The Complete 305 Poems, Translated by Xu Yuanchong

The Book of Songs (Chinese-English Edition): The Complete 305 Poems, Translated by Xu Yuanchong

All 305 Poems Across Feng, Ya and Song — Xu Yuanchong‘s Rhymed English Translation with Chinese Texts from the Zhonghua Book Company Edition — A Bilingual Classic
This book gives you all 305 poems of the Book of Songs—China’s oldest collection of poetry—in Chinese and in English translation by Xu Yuanchong. The poems are arranged in their classic three-part structure: Feng (airs from the states), Ya (odes), and Song (hymns). Xu Yuanchong, the first Asian translator to win the Aurora Borealis Prize, renders them into English rhyme, aiming to carry not just the meaning but the sound and rhythm of the originals. The Chinese text follows the Zhonghua Book Company edition, and the English comes first, the Chinese follows, so you can read straight through or compare side by side. If you want to experience the complete Book of Songs in a celebrated rhymed translation—rather than a partial selection or a plain prose rendering—this is it.
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Discover the Soul of Chinese Literature

Step back in time to the cradle of Chinese civilization with The Book of Poetry (Shi Jing). Compiled over 2,500 years ago, this is the earliest existing collection of Chinese poetry and one of the "Five Classics" that shaped Eastern philosophy and culture. This edition brings these ancient verses to life for the modern English reader.

Why This Edition is a Must-Have:

  • Masterful Translation by Xu Yuanchong: Renowned as the "translation master" of China, Xu Yuanchong is celebrated worldwide for his poetic and rhythmic English renderings of classical Chinese texts. His translation preserves the musicality, emotion, and spirit of the original poems while making them accessible and moving for English-speaking audiences -2-3.

  • Bilingual Format: Presented with the original Classical Chinese text alongside the English translation, this book is an invaluable resource for language learners, sinologists, and poetry lovers who wish to appreciate the nuances of both languages.

  • Cultural & Historical Treasure: The 305 poems within offer a vivid panorama of Zhou Dynasty society (c. 1000–600 BC). From the courts of kings to the fields of farmers, from songs of courtship to hymns of sacrifice, you'll gain profound insight into the beliefs, struggles, and joys of ancient China -2.

  • Premium Hardback Edition: Published by China Intercontinental Press (五洲传播出版社) in collaboration with Zhonghua Book Company, this hardcover volume features a clean, elegant design, making it a beautiful addition to any bookshelf or a perfect gift for culture enthusiasts

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