TANG DYNASTY POEMS

by Zhou Wenjing, Joseph Janeti

Cover Calligraphy by Zhou Chunlai

Tang Dynasty Poems makes for a wonderful introduction to ancient Chinese poetry.  The poems are lyrical, evocative – saying much with few words.

Moreover, this little book provides an entry-level glimpse into the world of the Tang Dynasty (618-907).  Once you have arrived, the reader will quickly recognize the many worldwide imitations of Tang poetry forms:  in fact they are echoed in the minimalist poetry of a great many regions – not least of them to be found in East and Southeast Asia poetry, with Haiku being perhaps the movement’s greatest beneficiary.

The volume is also filled with entertaining and informative snapshots of China’s early political and social life.  Most important:  the book contains bite-size views of China’s significant literary history.