According to the way of numbering the years in Chinese lunar calendar, there are two seasonal division points in each month, making 24 in a year. The Beginning of Spring, Beginning of Summer, Beginning of Autumn and Beginning of Winter mark the start of four seasons. The seasonal division points show the relationship between universe, season, climate and agriculture. To date, it has functioned as a complete set of weather calendar to guide the agricultural production in China. There have been poems about seasons, which is a subject that inspired some of the most beautiful poetry ever written.
Chen Yutang's translations of the selected poems on four seasons bring to the English-speaking world a glimpse into the expressive poetry of some minor poets in contemporary China, introducing traditional Chinese themes into a familiar poetic landscape and opening a door of understanding to English readers. This collection will be of significant interest to anthologists and poetry lovers alike.