The history of literature is the phylogeny of human beings, growing from childhood to adulthood; a spiritual history of the masters of literature, portraying human spirit with great touch; as well as a history of thought, reflecting human conscience and emotional introspection. Reading these immortal classics is like browsing through our history, while communicating across time and space with the thoughts and feelings of great writers. It bestows spiritual nutrition as well as aesthetic relish upon readers generation after generation.
China Translation and Publishing House (CTPH) has a publishing mission oriented toward reading and learning Chinese and foreign languages, as well as cultural exchange, and has been dedicated to providing spiritual feasts which not only optimize language aptitude but also nourish the heart and soul. Along with the development of internet and digital publication, readers have easier access to classic works. Nevertheless, well-designed printed books remain popular with most readers.
"After perusing three hundred Tang poems, a learner can at least utter some verses, even if they cannot proficiently write a poem."That is true for learning Chinese, more so for learning a foreign language. To master a language, we must read comprehensively, not only for taking in lingual competence, but also for catching the unique cultural essence implied in the language. "World Literary Classics (English originals)" can surely serve as a series of readings with everlasting edifying significance.
