Where Mathematics Meets Poetry

Join poet and mathematician, Professor Tianxin Cai from Zhejiang University China for a concise introduction to the historical development of classical Chinese poetry. From the Book of Songs 3000 years ago, to the five-character poetry mastered by Tao Qian during the Eastern Jin Dynasty; from the seven character rhythmic poems popular in the Tang Dynasty to the Ci poetry that reached its zenith during the Song Dynasty. Professor Cai will also introduce the free verse poetry that appeared in the early 20th century, and the relation between poetry, maths and painting, as well as the difference between Western and Eastern approaches. Professor Cai will also recite his own poems, and invite the audience to join him in reciting them in multiple languages.

Key Information:

Date and Time: Monday, November 16  •  10 AM – 11 AM

Location: Abden House, 1 Marchhall Crescent Edinburgh EH16 5HP

Tickets: Free but booking required. Please reserve your place HERE

Agenda:

10:00 AM – 10:05 AM

Introduction by Professor Chen Li, Co-Director of the Confucius Institute

10:05 AM – 10:45 AM

Lecture by Professor Cai Tianxin

10:45 AM – 11:00 AM

Q+A hosted by Dr Yuqing Liu, University of Edinburgh