Valentine's Day Concert (By Yang Ke) Poem by Denis Mair

My Chinese is limited to 500 Characters (or was!) and my knowledge of Chinese literature to Tu Fu, whose book was sent to me from Beijing many years ago. But your poem makes me want to read more of this great Culture. Poems such as Pony boy have stayed with me. The final stanza of your poem is particularly stunning in its power and beauty. Tom Billsborough. Ps I'm putting you on my Favourite poets! list to remind to read more in the near future.

The poem contrasts the old way with the new way of celebration of Valentine Day. The old way was simple, ritualistic and cultural..It has changed to more gaudy with the western impact.The''Fish'symolising abundance is no more preferred dish on Valentineday's menu.It is replaced by kentucky fried chicken- - - Áncestors made do with plain fare, paseed down observances Focussed on eating and serving fish at year's end For we eat auspicious homonyms- - we eat ritual, culture and self lauding tales'' In ancient way it was prayer for love and prosperity and in modern day it is showbiz- Thanks for sharing the wonderful write through your translation which seems like an original write.

A very powerful work. I read from it the folkway and sense of very Chinese. The flowing language is so beautiful; of course, thanks to your good translation. From your translation, the English reader (s) may easily go into the VD concert with the poet. Phoenix vs Kentucky fried chicken; XO vs mulberry leaves - the 'contrast' is very special with the poet's jumping imagination. I think the culture impact both of the west and east can help the combination of the world culture to a certain extent. I loved this poem though I didn't read it in Chinese version before.Thank you for sharing.