In the Analects, Confucius says that learning is “inspired by Poetry, established through Ritual, and consummated in Music” (Analects 8.8). Poetry thus occupies a central place in traditional Ru (Confucian) learning.

Over the years, I have compiled an anthology titled Ru Literature: Enjoying the Rain on a Spring Night, featuring major figures in the Ru literary and philosophical tradition, including Zhuge Liang, Li Bai, Du Fu, Liu Yuxi, Zhang Zai, Zhu Xi, Xin Qiji, and Wang Yangming.

I typically use this anthology at the beginning of my course Ru and Confucianism to introduce students to the basic mentality and spirituality of the Ru tradition. I also draw on it at various points when teaching the history of Ru philosophy.

The full text can be downloaded here:

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