Author: Wu Cheng'en
Publisher: Central Compilation & Translation Press
Format: Hardcover
Genre: Fantasy
Date: October 2014
Pages: 960
Book Series: Authoritative Annotated Editions of the Four Great Classical Novels
Number of issues: 4
ISBN: 9787511721242
Language: Chinese
Adaptation: Retelling
Summary:
This edition is based on the Ming Dynasty Shidetang (世德堂) printing. For the purpose of collation, several other Ming-era editions were consulted—including the Yang Minzhai (杨闽斋) edition, the Tang Sanzang Xiyou Shi’e Zhuan (唐三藏西游释厄传), and the Tang Sanzang Chushen Quanzhuan (唐三藏出身全传)—as well as Qing-era editions, such as the Xiyou Zhengdao Shu (西游证道书) and the Xinshuo Xiyouji (新说西游记, the Weiqianzhai/味潜斋 edition). The objective is to preserve the essence of this classic masterpiece as fully as possible. For instance, this edition restores a significant number of poems that were excised from the Xiyou Zhengdao Shu; while some of these verses are admittedly crude or lack literary polish, others—particularly those in the pai (俳) style—vividly reflect the character of popular folk literature. Given that Journey to the West evolved from such vernacular traditions, retaining these unadorned, rustic elements is essential for enabling contemporary readers to gain a comprehensive and complete understanding of the work.
As Journey to the West is written in an early form of vernacular Chinese, it may feel somewhat distant to modern readers—a sense of detachment compounded by the presence of various historical allusions and customs that are no longer familiar today. Consequently, this edition includes detailed annotations, intended to assist readers as they explore and appreciate this classic masterpiece.
