Shangyang Fang's upcoming book, *Study of Sorrows: Translations* (Copper Canyon Press, 2025), revitalizes the work of twenty-nine Song Dynasty Ci poets, providing accessible translations aimed at the English-speaking audience. Traditionally overshadowed by Tang Dynasty poetry in Western literature, Song Ci poetry has been reinterpreted by Fang, who introduces many of these poets to readers for the first time.
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The collection, organized into seven thematic sections, explores themes such as grief, love, and longing, examining the coexistence of the tangible and intangible. Unlike scholarly translations that focus on literal interpretations, Fang’s work seeks to infuse contemporary relevance into ancient verses, incorporating revisions and re-imaginings while maintaining the poetic integrity of the originals. This approach results in a dynamic interplay between the poems and their translator, showcasing Fang’s skill in navigating the complexities of the language and emotion.
In an interview with Li Zhuang, Fang reflected on how his early exposure to classical Chinese poetry, particularly through his grandfather's teachings, shaped his poetic voice. He noted that the themes in his translations are organized not by individual poet but by larger concepts. This thematic approach allows for a fluid reading experience that mirrors the emotional connections across the centuries, creating a type of poetic conversation rather than a mere catalog.
Fang discussed the inherent challenges of translating the tenseless nature of Chinese poetry into English, which often emphasizes temporal and spatial clarity. He emphasized that the essence of lyrical poetry resists the passage of time, capturing images and sounds that transcend narrative structure.
He also explored the absence of pronouns in traditional Ci poetry, explaining that this omission invites readers into a more immersive experience of emotion that is often less personal but deeply connected to the objects and surroundings described in the poems.
Delving into the cultural nuances of Song Ci, Fang refrains from extensive footnoting in his translations, believing that the poems should stand alone as evocative pieces of art. He acknowledges the inevitability of loss in translation, stating that aiming for complete preservation can be paralyzing. Instead, Fang sees the gaps as spaces for new interpretations and connections for readers to explore.
Fang also remarked on the distinct androgynous qualities in Ci poetry, where male poets often adopt feminine perspectives. He explained that this quality emerges organically in his translations through his choice of tone and diction, underscoring the themes of vulnerability and emotional depth present in the work.
Looking ahead, Fang is nearing completion of his next poetry manuscript, which he anticipates will differ in spirit from his earlier works. He hopes to bring forth a fresh perspective in his future endeavors.
Shangyang Fang is known for his debut collection, *Burying the Mountain* (2021), and is set to release *Study of Sorrows* in 2025. His forthcoming collection, *Bastard of Elsewhere*, is expected from Copper Canyon Press in 2027. Li Zhuang, a poet and creative writer with notable accolades, conducted the interview, highlighting both her academic background and current projects.