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A Hundred and Seventy Chinese Poems

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Chinese poetry

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About this book

"A Hundred and Seventy Chinese Poems" by Arthur Waley is a collection of Chinese poetry translated into English, written in the early 20th century. The book presents a selection of traditional Chinese poems, emphasizing their beauty and cultural significance, showcasing themes of love, friendship, nature, and the human condition. Waley's goal is to bring the essence of these ancient works to a broader audience who may not have access to the original language or context. At the start of the collection, Waley provides a preliminary note explaining his approach to translation, citing his intent to focus on previously untranslated poems while also offering reconstructions of works that have existing translations but are flawed. The opening section includes a glimpse of various poems that will appear later in the book, touching upon different aspects of life and emotions—from battles and separation to nature and nostalgia—each rich in imagery and sentiment. This establishes a foundation for the reader to appreciate the depth and variety of Chinese poetic tradition that Waley captures in this anthology.

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Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in A Hundred and Seventy Chinese Poems, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 10 hours
  • intermediate
  • contemplative
  • melancholic
  • serene

Arthur Waley's "A Hundred and Seventy Chinese Poems" is a landmark collection that introduced classical Chinese poetry, primarily from the Tang Dynasty, to a wide English-speaking audience. Published in 1918, it showcases a diverse range of poetic voices exploring universal themes of nature, friendship, transience, duty, and the human condition. Waley's translations are celebrated for their clarity, accessibility, and poetic sensibility, making these ancient works resonate deeply with modern readers. The anthology served as a crucial bridge between Eastern and Western literary traditions, profoundly influencing modernist poets and shaping Western perceptions of Chinese culture.

“Before my bed there is a patch of moonlight. / I wonder if it is frost on the ground?”

Key themes

Nature and the Cosmos
Nature is not merely a backdrop but an active participant and source of profound insight. Mountains, rivers, trees, birds, and celestial bodies are imbued with symbolic meaning, reflecting human emotions, the cycle of life, and the vastness of the universe. It often serves as a refuge from the human world or a mirror for contemplation.
Transience and Impermanence
A pervasive theme, reflecting the Buddhist and Taoist understanding of the fleeting nature of life, beauty, and human endeavors. Poets often lament the passage of time, the fading of youth, the loss of friends, and the impermanence of worldly glory, contrasting it with the enduring cycles of nature.
Friendship and Solitude
The collection beautifully explores the profound value of friendship, particularly among educated men and fellow poets, often celebrated through shared wine, poetry, and quiet contemplation. Conversely, it also delves into the depths of solitude, often experienced by exiles or those seeking spiritual retreat, which can be both a burden and a source of profound self-discovery.

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How do Waley's translations balance literal accuracy with poetic beauty and accessibility for a Western audience?

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