Translation of Tang Poetry into English
Tang poetry, renowned for its elegance and depth, holds a significant place in Chinese literary tradition. Translating these poetic gems into English requires not only linguistic prowess but also a deep understanding of the cultural nuances embedded within the verses. Below are English translations of selected Tang poems, capturing their essence while striving to maintain the beauty and meaning of the original Chinese.
1.
Quiet Night Thoughts (静夜思) by Li Bai (李白)
床前明月光，疑是地上霜。
举头望明月，低头思故乡。
The bright moonlight before my bed,
I suspect it to be frost on the ground.
I lift my head and gaze at the clear moon,
Then lower it, missing my hometown profound.
2.
Drinking Alone with the Moon (月下独酌) by Li Bai (李白)
花间一壶酒，独酌无相亲。
举杯邀明月，对影成三人。
Amidst the flowers, a jug of wine,
Alone I drink, no companions in line.
I raise my cup, inviting the bright moon so near,
Along with my shadow, we're a trio sincere.
3.
A Spring Morning (春晓) by Meng Haoran (孟浩然)
春眠不觉晓，处处闻啼鸟。
夜来风雨声，花落知多少。
In spring asleep, dawn I don’t sense,
Everywhere, the chirping birds commence.
Through the night, wind and rain's clamor,
How many flowers fell? I ponder.
4.
Sending Off a Friend (送别) by Wang Wei (王维)
山有木兮木有枝，心悦君兮君不知。
采其实兮慰我心，君行君兮不我闻。
Trees on the mountain, with branches they bear,
Joy in my heart, yet you’re unaware.
I gather their fruits to soothe my mind,
As you depart, your footsteps I’ll find.
5.
Seeing Off Meng Haoran for Guangling at Yellow Crane Tower (黄鹤楼送孟浩然之广陵) by Cui Hao (崔颢)
故人西辞黄鹤楼，烟花三月下扬州。
孤帆远影碧空尽，唯见长江天际流。
Old friend bids farewell at Yellow Crane Tower’s height,
Amidst March's fireworks, Yangzhou's bright.
Alone sails vanish into azure skies vast,
Only the Yangtze River’s flow I see, steadfast.
These translations strive to convey the essence of Tang poetry, capturing their themes of nature, friendship, and longing. While the beauty of the original Chinese may be difficult to fully replicate, these renditions aim to provide English readers with a glimpse into the profound world of Tang poetry.
