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The Classic of Poetry Shijing

The Classic of Poetry, known as Shijing in Chinese, holds a myriad of translations, ranging from “Book of Songs” and “Book of Odes” to the more simple terms “Odes” or “Poetry”. This distinguished compilation stands as the oldest surviving repository of Chinese poetic artistry, encompassing 305 compositions spanning from the 11th to the 7th centuries BCE. Revered as one of the “Five Classics,” a collection traditionally attributed to Confucius, the Classic of Poetry has endured over two millennia, captivating scholars across China and its neighboring lands. Its significance reaches beyond academic circles, as it remains an abundant source of chengyu – four-character idiomatic expressions – which continue to weave through learned conversations and contemporary vernacular in modern Chinese. Throughout the Qing dynasty and beyond, its rhythmic patterns have also been meticulously scrutinized within the realm of Old Chinese phonology.

A hallmark of the poems within the Classic of Poetry lies in their profound interplay of “repetition and variation.” This intricate dance between resemblance and divergence imparts a fluid transformation within their formal structure. Across successive stanzas, select lines and phrases echo in verbatim repetition, while others embark on unique trajectories from stanza to stanza.

Moreover, the compositions residing in the Classic of Poetry exhibit recurring patterns in rhyme and rhythm, skillfully leveraging imagery often drawn from the canvas of nature. Amidst these verses, one can savor the seamless interplay of words and visions, creating a symphony that resonates with the essence of the human experience. Now, click this link to learn about the Classic of Poetry “Shijing”

 

As you immerse yourself in the world of the Classic of Poetry, consider the captivating dance performance inspired by the “Caiwei” chapter from the “Xiaoya” section. “Caiwei” beautifully chronicles the journey of a soldier’s return to his homeland, encapsulating the hardships of military life and the poignant yearning for one’s roots. Here is a link for you to enjoy the dance:

 

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