Photo: New York, April 2012
Robert Peng (China / USA)
My Belated Tribute to Richard for His 80th Birthday
My initial encounter with Richard, in my modest Manhattan office back in 2012 during his poetry reading tour across the USA, remains a vivid memory etched in my mind. Contrary to my expectations of a poet being a flamboyant and articulate sage, Richard presented himself as the embodiment of humility, akin to a benevolent grandfatherly figure from next door. Yet, within minutes, his presence revealed a soul of profound depth and purity. His eyes, a mirror to his soul, radiated a genuine awe and curiosity for life that deeply resonated with me, forging an instantaneous and enduring bond between us.
Despite my limited expertise in poetry, I still have some favorite poets, including the ancient Tao Yuanming and the more contemporary Xu Zhimo, whose verses I admired and recited during my youth. Richard's The Wine Cup: Twenty-Four Drinking Songs for Tao Yuanming, inspired by Tao Yuanming himself, along with his role as a translator of Xu Zhimo’s 'Second Farewell to Cambridge' and as a co-coordinator of the inaugural Cambridge Xu Zhimo Poetry & Art Festival in 2015, significantly deepened my admiration for him. This shared reverence for these literary icons, and our mutual friendship with Xu Zhimo’s granddaughter, Angela King, has profoundly bridged our worlds through this literary lineage.
Richard’s ambitious project, Changing, inspired by the I Ching or Book of Changes, stands as a monumental homage to both the ancient text and Chinese culture at large. His commitment to encapsulating the essence of the I Ching in verse showcases his deep respect for and understanding of its complexities and its significance within Chinese philosophical thought. The inclusion of two poems about my own spiritual journey and my Master Xiaoyao in Changing represents a gesture of personal significance that I hold dear, further cementing our connection.
Richard's ability to bridge cultural and temporal divides through his translations and original works is nothing short of magical, offering readers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of human experience that transcends geographical boundaries. In Richard Berengarten, we find a poet whose life’s work exemplifies a profound engagement with the world's literary and cultural heritage, a relentless pursuit of understanding, and an unwavering commitment to the art of poetry. His contributions to the world of literature have enriched our collective human experience, offering insights and reflections that resonate with readers around the globe.
On this milestone birthday, I celebrate not only Richard's literary achievements but also the spirit of friendship and mutual respect that has flourished between us. His legacy, embodied in his poetic oeuvre and his contributions to the cultural dialogue between East and West, will undoubtedly continue to inspire and influence generations to come. Happy 80th birthday, Richard. May your days be filled with the same wonder and curiosity that you have brought to so many through your words and deeds.
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