The Selected Poems of Wang Wei

Wang Wei, a prominent figure in classical Chinese poetry, is renowned for his mastery of short, imagistic landscape poems that embody tranquility and deep philosophical insights rooted in Ch'an (Zen) Buddhism. His concise verses, often featuring vivid details like a bird's cry or a ray of light, resonate with contemporary readers, thanks to Hinton's translations. Additionally, Wang's talents as a landscape painter enhance the visual clarity of his poetry, capturing the essence of nature and inviting readers to experience a profound sense of selflessness and beauty.