The Gay Genius : The Life and Times of Su Tungpo

This is a great book written in English by a great Chinese author, scholar, philosopher, linguist,...Lin Yutang (1895-1976), about the greatest Chinese poet, scholar, philosopher of all time - Su Tungpo (1037-1101). Lin states the history background in Su's days (Sung Dynasty) and the life and works of Su. Lin translated many of Su's poems in this book published in 1947, including THE most fabulous and, greatest poem (or "tse" in this particular form) of all Chinese literature - the "Mid-Autumn Moon", composed in 1076. Lin translated this poem not just by meaning but also in English rhythm. "How rare the moon, so round and clear! With cup in hand, I ask of the blue sky, ....." (page 175). Critics say that after this poem was written, all the other poems on the harvest moon could be well forgotten. Lin's translation is a piece of art. Lin portraits Su's study, talent, literature works, unswerving mind. Really worth of reading. Cover Contents Preface Book One : Childhood and Youth (1036-1061) 1. Literary Patriotic Duke 2. Meishan 3. Childhood and Youth 4. The Examinations 5. Father and Sons Book Two : Early Manhood (1062-1079) 6. Gods, Devils, and Men 7. Experiment in State Capitalism 8. The Bull-headed Premier 9. The Evil That Men Do 10. The Two Brothers 11. Poets, Courtesans, and Monks 12. Poetry of Protest 13. The Yellow Tower 14. Arrest and Trial Book Three : Maturity (1080-1093) 15. Farmer of the Eastern Slope 16. Poet of the Red Cliff 17. Yoga and Alchemy 18. Years of Wanderings 19. Empress's Favourite 20. The Art of Painting 21. The Art of Getting Out of Power 22. Engineering and Famine Relief 23. Friend of the People Book Four : Year of Exile (1094-1101) 24. Second Persecution 25. Home in Exile 26. Romance with Chaoyun 27. Outside China 28. The End Appendices Appendix A Chronological Summary Appendix B Bibliography and Sources Appendix C Biographical Reference List Index