Arthur Waley was a distinguished authority on Chinese language and literature whose works offered profound insights into Eastern culture. Celebrated for his numerous translations from the Chinese, his renderings provided Western readers with access to the richness of East Asian poetic and philosophical traditions. His unique approach captured the spirit and nuance of the original texts, making him a pivotal figure in the cross-cultural literary landscape.
Spanning over a millennium, this collection showcases the rich tradition of Chinese poetry through the works of renowned poets. Each poem is complemented by engaging introductory and descriptive essays, offering insights into the historical and cultural context of the verses. The anthology highlights the enduring beauty and relevance of Chinese poetry, making it a valuable resource for both poetry enthusiasts and those new to the genre.
This comprehensive biography, first published in 1950, delves into the life of one of China's most celebrated poets, offering insights that were previously unavailable in any language. It explores the poet's influences, works, and the cultural context of his time, making it a significant contribution to literary scholarship and an essential read for those interested in Chinese poetry and history.
The most famous work of Japanese literature and the world's first novel—written a thousand years ago and one of the enduring classics of world literature. Written centuries before the time of Shakespeare and even Chaucer, The Tale of Genji marks the birth of the novel—and after more than a millennium, this seminal work continues to enchant readers throughout the world. Lady Murasaki Shikibu and her tale's hero, Prince Genji, have had an unmatched influence on Japanese culture. Prince Genji manifests what was to become an image of the ideal Heian era courtier; gentle and passionate. Genji is also a master poet, dancer, musician and painter. The Tale of Genji follows Prince Genji through his many loves and varied passions. This book has influenced not only generations of courtiers and samurai of the distant past, but artists and painters even in modern times—episodes in the tale have been incorporated into the design of kimonos and handicrafts, and the four-line poems called waka which dance throughout this work have earned it a place as a classic text in the study of poetry. This version by Kencho Suematsu was the first-ever translation in English. Condensed, it's a quarter length of the unabridged text, making it perfect for readers with limited time. "Not speaking is the wiser part, And words are sometimes vain, But to completely close the heart In silence, gives me pain." —Prince Genji, in The Tale of Genji
One of the most influential books of all time, The Analects of Confucius collects the sayings and wisdom of the Chinese philosopher and his followers. Still as relevant today as they were over two thousand years ago, these teachings together present a moral code that values virtue above all, and make up the core values of the Confucian tradition. This edition includes a full introduction that gives the social and political background of the ancient work, analyses of key terms in Chinese thought, and a careful study of the history of the book and its interpretations. There are also full notes illuminating the references to contemporary events and clarifying obscure passages. An essential work of literature and philosophy, The Analects of Confucius has shaped generations of readers around the world.
First published in 1956.Arthur Waley here presents an engrossing account of the works and life of Yuan Mei (1716-1797), the best-known poet of his time. Gaiety is the keynote of his works and the poet was a friend of the Manchu official with whom Commodore Anson had dramatic dealings at Canton in 1743. Yuan Mei gives an account (not previously translated) of Anson's interview with the Manchu authorities. The book contains many translations of Yuan Mei's verse and prose.
Written in the middle of the 16th century, this Chinese classic tells the story of Tripitaka's journey to India and what happens on the way. Its true theme is man's pilgrimage through life, with Monkey, Pigsy and Sandy symbolizing diverse elements of human nature.
