The Collected Songs of Cold Mountain
Translated by Red Pine
Copper Canyon Press (2000)
About five years ago during some troubles, a friend visited while he was reading The Collected Songs. Before he left, he gave me his copy with the inscription: “For John, who could use this book.” And I have: reading, rereading and rereading again.
China’s monk-poet, Han Shan “Cold Mountain” wrote these poems 1200 years ago on rocks, trees and mountain walls. From a secluded simple life in his cave, Cold Mountain wrote simple unpretentious poetry. His poems esteemed for their spiritual honesty, poignancy and humor were written for everyone not just the educated elite. When Cold Mountain disappeared into the cliffs, his poems were collected and preserved.
Red Pine’s (Bill Porter) translation of Cold Mountain’s work enhances the reader’s experience, adding interpretive depth. Red Pine leads the reader to self-exploration through Cold’s insightful gift.
This beautiful collection will be my life-long companion to revisit again and again, enhancing my days. My life has been touched by this book and is different today as a result. A life enhanced by a fine gift from one understanding reader to another. This blog is my thanks to a friend.
Han Shan and Shih-te
Read more about Cold Mountain in a previous post of mine.
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