Choosing to Be Simple: Collected Poems of Tao Yuanming

Choosing to Be Simple: Collected Poems of Tao Yuanming is a definitive portrait of the early Chinese politician and poet, expertly translated by Red Pine.

This bilingual collection of over 160 verses chronicles Tao Yuanming's path from civil servant to reclusive poet during the formative Six Dynasties period (220–589).

The poems show a keen attention to rhythm as they explore the tension of scarcity and indulgence, duty and escape.

With its clarity and scholarly range, this version of the Taoteching works as both a readable text and a valuable resource of Taoist interpretation.

Red Pine introduces Western readers to both the text itself and the traditions it has inherited.

The poems are revitalized by Red Pine's skilled translation, which mirrors the music of the originals.

This product will transport you to ancient China, immersing you in the simple yet profound wisdom of Tao Yuanming's poetry.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to discover the timeless desire to live by the principles enshrined by China's sages.