Yao Peisheng, a former ambassador with a prestigious career spanning over three decades, has, at the impressive age of 78, embarked on an inspiring literary endeavor. Collaborating with a Russian poet, they have released a Chinese-Russian bilingual series titled “Classics in Paintings.” This opulent series comprises three volumes, namely “The Book of Poetry in Paintings (The Book of Songs)”, “Tang Poetry in Paintings”, and “Song Lyrics in Paintings”, which collectively celebrate some of China’s most cherished literary works.
While Yao’s venture into the literary world may come as a surprise to some, his deep-rooted passion for literature, linguistics, and translation has been evident throughout his life. His extensive experience, especially with the Russian language and its culture, forms the backbone of this project, aimed at propagating traditional Chinese literature in foreign lands.
Keenly aware of the power of cultural exchanges, Yao emphasizes their role in fostering international friendships and mutual understanding. “Cultural dialogues act as a bridge, promoting unity and harmony amongst diverse nations and ethnicities,” Yao expressed. His assertion that regardless of cultural differences, themes of trust, goodwill, and positivity remain universal, underpins the essence of his work.
The three bilingual volumes cater to Russian-speaking audiences and those passionate about Chinese-Russian linguistic synergies. Each work offers an immersive experience, adorned with insightful annotations to ensure comprehension and accompanied by splendid illustrations, some by the late revered painter, Chen Peiqiu. An outcome of a dedicated six-year collaborative effort, the series showcases translations of over 300 traditional Chinese poems, including the notable addition of the “Song Lyrics in Paintings” – a first of its kind in Russian translations.
Yao acknowledges the challenges faced in such literary endeavors, particularly given the nuances and intricacies of the Chinese language. While translations of Chinese literature into Russian have existed since the 18th century, varying interpretations have often led to ambiguities or inaccuracies. Yao envisions a comprehensive translation of “The Book of Songs”, China’s most ancient poetry collection, reflecting the desires of ordinary citizens for peace and prosperity. He is determined to address gaps in current translations, with only 100 of its 305 poems translated, and is also keen on refining the presentation of Song Lyrics to differentiate between poems and traditional lyrics.
Yao’s background is a testament to his dedication to cross-cultural diplomacy. Having commenced his diplomatic endeavors in 1973, Yao has served in multiple former Soviet republics, including Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, and Kazakhstan. He recalled organizing the China Culture Day in Almaty, Kazakhstan, in 2002, mesmerizing locals with glimpses of Chinese art and performances. Among his many contributions, he also chronicled the journey of Xian Xinghai, a Chinese composer who found solace in Kazakhstan during World War II, cementing bilateral cultural bonds.
Hailing from a quaint village near the Yangtze River in Jiangsu Province, Yao’s linguistic journey began early, studying Russian since junior high. His fluency was further honed at the Beijing Foreign Studies University, equipping him for his diplomatic pursuits, which commenced at the Chinese Embassy in the former Soviet Union in 1973.
With an unwavering commitment, Yao’s future aspirations involve popularizing the translated works across Russian-speaking regions and contemplating translations in multiple other languages, especially those spoken in Central Asia and the Baltic states. “These translations hold a unique potential for local readers to delve into classical Chinese literature in their native tongues,” Yao remarked, emphasizing the need for patience and extensive support in these endeavors.
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