This unique collection presents the verse - much of it translated for the first time - of fourteen eminent Chinese Buddhist poet monks. Featuring the original Chinese as well as English translations and historical introductions by Burton Watson, J.P. Seaton, Paul Hansen, James Sanford, and the editors, this book provides an appreciation and understanding of this elegant and traditional expression of spirituality.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Poems in Chinese and English.

Introduction / Andrew Schelling Chia Tao (779-843) Ch'i-chi (864-937) The Nine Monks and Chih Yuan, Poet Monks of Early Sung China (late tenth century)

Han-shan Te-ch'ing (1546-1623) Shih-shu (late 17th century early 18th century) Ching An (1851-1912).