Cathay

A striking collection that brings centuries‑old Chinese verses into vivid, modern hearing, this volume offers a rare glimpse into the world of ancient poets and their courtly, battlefield, and domestic scenes. Ezra Pound’s translations capture the crispness of early Chinese imagery—ferns and willow‑laden rivers, weary soldiers, and elegant courtesans—while preserving the rhythmic pulse of the originals.

The poems move from the lament of an 8th‑century bowman yearning for home, through a delicate portrait of a young woman’s quiet longing, to the bustling, music‑filled river journeys of imperial travelers. Each piece is a miniature tableau, inviting listeners to feel the chill of snow‑capped hills, the fragrance of spring blossoms, and the echo of nightingales over palace courtyards.

Together, the selections form a mosaic of life on the Silk Road, court intrigue, and personal devotion, all rendered in language that feels both timeless and immediate. It’s an immersive auditory experience that transports you to distant dynasties without ever leaving your seat.