Wei Rong Chu, a distinguished former Associate Professor of English at Sichuan Teachers University in China, started a revolutionary journey in poetry translation with his groundbreaking work titled “A New Approach to Chinese Tang Dynasty Poetry Translation.” Equipped with an extensive educational background, including a Bachelor’s degree in English from Sichuan Foreign Languages Institute, a Master’s degree in English from SUNY Cortland College, and a Master of Science in Education from Long Island University in NYC, Chu’s expertise laid the groundwork for his innovative pursuits in traditional Chinese cultural studies.
Chu’s innovative approach to poetry translation stemmed from an unexpected inspiration – the convergence of literature and music. Tasked with creating a DVD featuring cherished bilingual Chinese Tang Dynasty poems for ABC’s, Chu encountered a significant obstacle: existing translations did not match the musical rhythm required for the project. Conventional translations, burdened with elaborate explanations and lacking in rhythmic fluidity, failed to capture the essence and allure of the original works. Motivated by a desire to uphold the poetic integrity of these famous classical Chinese poems while infusing them with contemporary vibrancy, he produced translations that resonated with both authenticity and accessibility.
Adopting a methodology that emphasized rhythm and poetic flow, Chu painstakingly translated the revered Tang Dynasty poems, ensuring that each line echoed the melodic pulse of its Chinese counterpart. The outcome was a collection of concise yet evocative translations that not only retained the essence of the originals but also injected them with newfound vitality and resonance. By seamlessly integrating linguistic precision with artistic sensibility, Chu succeeded in crafting translations that remained faithful to the spirit of the Tang Dynasty poets while resonating with modern audiences. This made his work one of the best Chinese literature books available.
Chu’s transformative efforts received widespread acclaim, leading to invitations to deliver lectures on “A New Approach to Chinese Tang Dynasty Poetry” on five occasions by Think China Town in Manhattan, New York. His contributions to the cultural landscape were further acknowledged through a series of prestigious awards, including three government grants totaling $21,700 over the years 2020, 2023, and 2024. These grants, bestowed in recognition of Chu’s “remarkable artistry” and his contributions to enriching the vitality of the borough, underscored the impact of his endeavors on traditional Chinese cultural studies.
Even in retirement, Chu remained a driving force in the realm of poetry translation and performance, captivating audiences with his impassioned renditions of Tang Dynasty classics. His dedication to bridging cultural divides and fostering community cohesion earned him two grants from the LMCC, solidifying his legacy as a visionary artist and cultural ambassador. Through his unwavering commitment and innovative spirit, Wei Rong Chu not only revitalized ancient poetry but also forged enduring connections between past and present, East and West. His bilingual poetry books continue to inspire and engage readers worldwide.
Check out the gallery for awards and poems.
