Well, I came across this book: Three Chinese Poets, a collection of poems by three of the best poets in Chinese history, and perhaps, even in the world (..This is not my word.. the cover says so.) The three are: Li Bai, Du Fu and Wang Wei. This book is a translation of some of their poems in to English by Vikram Seth. I am not sure if it is the translation or the depth in thinking but, I did not understand the poems. I confess my ignorance… can’t do nothing but a confession. ;) Those I understood appeared simple for me, though I suspect some other meaning there. Anyways, presenting 3 poems from the book here… your interpretations are welcome ….

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1. In the quiet night : by Li Bai

The floor before my bed is bright
Moonlight - like hoarfrost - in my room
I lift my head and watch the moon
I drop my head and think of home

2. Parting at a wineshop in Nanjing : by Li Bai

……………..
We Nanjing friends are here to see each other off
Those who must go, and those who don’t - each drains his cup.
Go, ask the Yangtze, which of these two sooner ends..
Its water flows east - the love of parting friends .

3. Dreaming of Li Bai : by Du Fu

……..
The pain of death’s farewells grows dim.
The pain of life’s farewells stays new.

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- So, here they are, the three poems. What is your take on these 3 poems by the greatest of the Chinese poets? How do you interpret them as a reader?

By the way: Here are the wiki entries for - Du Fu , Li Bai , Wang Wei . I need not mention their greatness. One mere fact that their poems written in 8th century are still a reader’s delight is enough to say that.

PS: I realised I am an incorrigible blogger. Tommorow, I have 2 end-sem exams, which means, 6 hrs of writing :( . Yet, I am blogging!!!


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