Burton Watson

Burton Watson (1925-2017) was one of the most prolific and influential translators of Chinese and Japanese literature into English during the 20th century. His translations spanned classical poetry, history, philosophy, and religious texts. Watson served in the US Navy during World War II and later earned his PhD in Chinese literature from Columbia University, where he studied under the renowned sinologist Theodore de Bary. His academic career included teaching positions at Columbia and Stanford universities. Watson's translations brought major works like the Records of the Grand Historian by Sima Qian and The Complete Works of Zhuangzi to English-speaking audiences. His clear, accessible style helped make classical Asian literature more approachable while maintaining scholarly accuracy. Watson received numerous awards for his work, including the Gold Medal Award of the Translation Center at Columbia University and the PEN Translation Prize. His influence continues through his more than 30 published translations, which remain standard texts in East Asian studies programs.

Readers appreciate Watson's clear, straightforward translation style that makes complex classical texts accessible without oversimplifying. Many note his ability to capture the original's tone while keeping the English natural and readable. Praise focuses on: - Accurate translations that maintain scholarly rigor - Clean, uncluttered prose that avoids archaic language - Helpful introductions and notes that provide context - Consistency across his large body of work Common criticisms: - Some translations prioritize readability over literal accuracy - Limited annotation compared to academic editions - Paper quality in some editions Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: 4.2/5 average across major works Amazon: 4.5/5 average, with strongest ratings for Zhuangzi and Chuang Tzu translations One reader noted: "Watson strips away the mysticism often added by other translators and lets the text speak for itself." Another commented: "His Han Feizi translation reads smoothly but occasionally sacrifices nuance for clarity." Most academic reviews cite his translations as reliable reference texts for teaching and research.

Cold Mountain: 100 Poems by Han-shan - English translation of poems by the legendary Tang Dynasty hermit-poet, capturing themes of solitude and spiritual enlightenment.

Records of the Grand Historian: Han Dynasty II - Translation of Sima Qian's historical records covering the Western Han period of Chinese history.

Chuang Tzu: Basic Writings - Translation of key selections from the Taoist philosopher Zhuangzi's writings on wisdom and the natural way.

The Columbia Book of Chinese Poetry: From Early Times to the Thirteenth Century - Comprehensive anthology of Chinese poetry translations spanning multiple dynasties and styles.

The Complete Works of Zhuangzi - Full translation of all surviving texts attributed to the Taoist philosopher Zhuangzi.

The Selected Poems of Du Fu - Translation of works by the renowned Tang Dynasty poet, covering themes of war, politics, and personal reflection.

The Lotus Sutra - Translation of one of the most influential texts of Mahayana Buddhism.

Mo Tzu: Basic Writings - Translation of key texts by the ancient Chinese philosopher Mozi, focusing on utilitarian and meritocratic ideas.

Japanese Literature in Chinese: Poetry and Prose in Chinese by Japanese Writers - Collection of Chinese-language works composed by Japanese authors throughout history.

Four Huts: Asian Writings on the Simple Life - Translation of Chinese and Japanese texts about living simply and in harmony with nature.

David Hinton translates classical Chinese poetry and philosophical texts, with a focus on Taoist works and Tang Dynasty poets. He has translated many of the same core texts as Watson, including works by Chuang Tzu and Cold Mountain.

Stephen Owen specializes in Chinese literature from multiple periods and has produced translations of Du Fu and other major Tang poets. His scholarly work encompasses both translation and literary criticism of classical Chinese texts.

Arthur Waley translated extensively from Chinese and Japanese literature, including The Tale of Genji and poems from the Chinese Book of Songs. His work opened up East Asian classics to English readers in the early 20th century.

Donald Keene translated Japanese literature across multiple genres and historical periods, from classical to modern. His translations cover many of the same Japanese texts and authors that Watson worked on.

Victor Mair produces translations of Chinese texts with a focus on Buddhist literature and popular narratives. His work includes translations of the Tao Te Ching and Zhuangzi, with attention to historical and philosophical context.