The Book of Odes

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

—

Title

The Book of Odes

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

Part of the Wisdom of the East series, this volume presents just under forty short poems from the ancient Chinese Book of Odes (Shih-ching). Translated by L. Cranmer-Byng, these verses offer a window into the lives, loves, labors, and sorrows of ancient China, bridging Eastern thought and Western understanding.

Summary up to 500 words

Compiled by Confucius around 500 B.C., *The Book of Odes* stands as a foundational pillar of Chinese literature, preserving the authentic voices of the ancient world. Originally existing as natural songs rather than abstract creations, this collection spans from the Shang dynasty to the time of King Ting. The text is divided into two primary classes: the Songs of the People and the Official Odes. The Songs of the People capture the unfiltered experiences of farmers, soldiers, and women, depicting scenes of husbandry, the joys and sorrows of love, the hardships of war, and the passage of time. Poems like 'The Deserted Wife' convey the heartbreak of abandonment, while 'The Happy Man' celebrates a life of solitude and contentment in nature. The Official Odes include panegyrics for the king, descriptions of grand ceremonies, and political admonishments, offering a glimpse into feudal court life and statecraft. The translator, L. Cranmer-Byng, emphasizes the importance Confucius placed on these poems, using them to teach manners, customs, and human feelings. A significant parallel is drawn between Confucius and the Victorian artist William Morris; both men dreamed of a golden past, drew inspiration from the unstained springs of poetry, and passionately loved the common people. Both recognized that there is more to be learned from the natural man who toils in nature than from the artificial mimes of court or drawing rooms. This edition specifically challenges the European misconception of Chinese women as soulless slaves, instead presenting educated, feeling individuals who composed verses about their own experiences. Themes of loyalty, nature, family duty, and the impermanence of life run throughout the collection. By restoring the poetic rhythm to these ancient texts, the work offers a timeless glimpse into the 'old world of Thought' and its enduring human values, proving that these early secular songs remain as fresh and charming today as they were three thousand years ago.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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https://www.globalgreyebooks.com/ebooks/l-cranmer-byng_book-of-odes.epub

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Categories

• Philosophy
• Poetry