A Lute of Jade : selections from the classical poets of China By: L. (Launcelot) Cranmer-Byng (1872-1945)
A Lute of Jade: Selections from the Classical Poets of China, translated by L. (Launcelot) Cranmer-Byng, is a captivating collection that introduces readers to the beauty and depth of Chinese poetry. Cranmer-Byng's translation is not only faithful to the original text but also manages to evoke the spirit and essence of these ancient poems, making them accessible to a wider audience. The book is divided into several sections, each focusing on a particular theme or period in Chinese literature. From the lyrical verses of Li Bai and Du Fu to the profound thoughts of Confucius and Laozi, there is a rich variety of voices represented in this anthology. Readers are treated to a journey through time, exploring the cultural and historical context behind these poems. What sets A Lute of Jade apart from other translations is Cranmer-Byng's ability to capture the subtleties and nuances of the Chinese language. The lyrical beauty of the original verses is replicated in his translation, allowing readers to fully appreciate the musicality and imagery present in each poem. The careful selection of poems ensures that the collection is representative of the classical Chinese literary canon, showcasing the vast range of styles and themes found within. Moreover, Cranmer-Byng provides helpful annotations throughout the book, offering insights into the historical, philosophical, and cultural background of each poem. These annotations enhance the reading experience by providing a greater understanding of the context in which these poems were created. Cranmer-Byng's deep knowledge and appreciation of Chinese culture shine through, making the poems more accessible and relatable to contemporary readers. One of the standout features of A Lute of Jade is the translator's ability to maintain the simplicity and elegance of the original poems. Whether it's the evocative descriptions of nature or the introspective reflections on the human condition, each poem resonates with emotions that transcend time and geography. Cranmer-Byng's skillful rendering of these emotions creates a powerful connection between the reader and the poet, immersing them in a world both familiar and foreign. In conclusion, A Lute of Jade: Selections from the Classical Poets of China is an enchanting anthology that showcases the timeless and universal quality of Chinese poetry. L. Cranmer-Byng's translation is a masterful work of art, capturing the essence of the original verses and bringing them to life for a modern audience. This collection is a valuable addition to any literary enthusiast's bookshelf and serves as a gateway into the rich heritage of Chinese literature. First Page: A Lute of Jade: Being Selections from the Classical Poets of China by L. Cranmer Byng [Note on text: Italicized words or phrases are capitalized. Some slight errors have been corrected.] [Due to the method of transliteration used in this text, including many accent marks (and some strange ones), please refer to the following chart to see how these words originally appeared, and how they are presented in this text. In each case, the line with the letters is the same as in the text, and the accent marks are on the line above. Names of People " " ^ ^ " Ch`u Yuan Meng Hao jan Ts`en Ts`an Po Chu i " ^ Ssu K`ung T`u T`ai Chen Lao Tzu Chuang Tzu Names of Places " Ssuch`uan Ch`u The accent marked by an asterisk resembles the lower half of a circle. It is noted in the appendix that Mr. Lionel Giles is responsible for these transliterations.] [This etext has been transcribed from a New York edition of 1909. Please note that not only is the system of transliteration out of date (though perhaps still easier to use than the current standard), but other things may be out of date as well... Continue reading book >>

A Lute of Jade : selections from the classical poets of China By: L. (Launcelot) Cranmer-Byng (1872-1945)

A Lute of Jade: Selections from the Classical Poets of China, translated by L. (Launcelot) Cranmer-Byng, is a captivating collection that introduces readers to the beauty and depth of Chinese poetry. Cranmer-Byng's translation is not only faithful to the original text but also manages to evoke the spirit and essence of these ancient poems, making them accessible to a wider audience.

The book is divided into several sections, each focusing on a particular theme or period in Chinese literature. From the lyrical verses of Li Bai and Du Fu to the profound thoughts of Confucius and Laozi, there is a rich variety of voices represented in this anthology. Readers are treated to a journey through time, exploring the cultural and historical context behind these poems.

What sets A Lute of Jade apart from other translations is Cranmer-Byng's ability to capture the subtleties and nuances of the Chinese language. The lyrical beauty of the original verses is replicated in his translation, allowing readers to fully appreciate the musicality and imagery present in each poem. The careful selection of poems ensures that the collection is representative of the classical Chinese literary canon, showcasing the vast range of styles and themes found within.

Moreover, Cranmer-Byng provides helpful annotations throughout the book, offering insights into the historical, philosophical, and cultural background of each poem. These annotations enhance the reading experience by providing a greater understanding of the context in which these poems were created. Cranmer-Byng's deep knowledge and appreciation of Chinese culture shine through, making the poems more accessible and relatable to contemporary readers.

One of the standout features of A Lute of Jade is the translator's ability to maintain the simplicity and elegance of the original poems. Whether it's the evocative descriptions of nature or the introspective reflections on the human condition, each poem resonates with emotions that transcend time and geography. Cranmer-Byng's skillful rendering of these emotions creates a powerful connection between the reader and the poet, immersing them in a world both familiar and foreign.

In conclusion, A Lute of Jade: Selections from the Classical Poets of China is an enchanting anthology that showcases the timeless and universal quality of Chinese poetry. L. Cranmer-Byng's translation is a masterful work of art, capturing the essence of the original verses and bringing them to life for a modern audience. This collection is a valuable addition to any literary enthusiast's bookshelf and serves as a gateway into the rich heritage of Chinese literature.

First Page:

A Lute of Jade: Being Selections from the Classical Poets of China by L. Cranmer Byng

[Note on text: Italicized words or phrases are capitalized. Some slight errors have been corrected.]

[Due to the method of transliteration used in this text, including many accent marks (and some strange ones), please refer to the following chart to see how these words originally appeared, and how they are presented in this text. In each case, the line with the letters is the same as in the text, and the accent marks are on the line above.

Names of People " " ^ ^ " Ch`u Yuan Meng Hao jan Ts`en Ts`an Po Chu i

" ^ Ssu K`ung T`u T`ai Chen Lao Tzu Chuang Tzu

Names of Places " Ssuch`uan Ch`u

The accent marked by an asterisk resembles the lower half of a circle.

It is noted in the appendix that Mr. Lionel Giles is responsible for these transliterations.]

[This etext has been transcribed from a New York edition of 1909. Please note that not only is the system of transliteration out of date (though perhaps still easier to use than the current standard), but other things may be out of date as well... Continue reading book >>

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