In a quiet study illuminated by sunlight, a remarkable story of passion and perseverance unfolds. The modest room, furnished with two simple bookcases and a desk scattered with dictionaries and neatly arranged notes, has been the birthplace of a transformative work: the German version of  Three Hundred Classic Chinese Poems. This groundbreaking publication is a testament to the life and work of 93-year-old Tan Yuzhi, bridging Chinese poetry and German readership.

Tan Yuzhi, a former Dean of the German Department at Shanghai International Studies University (SISU), is a pioneering scholar in German studies. He used to be the Vice President of the Chinese Society for German Teaching and Research. With an enduring passion for poetry and language, Tan has spent a lifetime advancing cross-cultural understanding and inspired generations of students.

A Silent Translation World

Now 93, Tan lives alone, his world quieted by severe hearing loss. Relying on pen and paper for communication, he has turned this silence into an advantage. Free from external distractions, Tan channels his energy into his translations with a singular focus.

“Translation isn’t an obligation for me; it’s my passion,” Tan smiles. His process involves meticulous research, consulting annotated collections and dictionaries to ensure that each verse accurately captures the original’s rhythm, structure, and emotion.

“Poetry translation is extraordinarily challenging,” Tan acknowledges. “The rhyme, subtle nuances, and cultural essence demand both precision and artistry.” Wei Maoping, a former Dean of SISU’s German Department, describes Tan’s translations as transcending the technical, capturing not just meaning but the essence of Chinese poetry. 

Apart from academic perseverance, Tan showcases remarkable independence in his everyday life despite his poor hearing. From preparing his own meals to managing his daily routines, he exemplifies quiet resilience and discipline. Although he now employs a caregiver, Tan insists on handling most responsibilities himself, embodying the quiet determination that defines his character. 

A Cultural Milestone

After years of dedicated effort, Tan’s Three Hundred Classic Chinese Poems was published, marking a significant milestone in cultural exchange. Unlike previous German translations, which were often indirect versions derived from English or French, Tan’s work offers a faithful and direct interpretation of the original Chinese texts.

“Mr. Tan’s scholarship fills a critical gap in representing Chinese poetry within German-speaking regions,” says Wei Yuqing, President of the Shanghai Translators Association. “It’s an extraordinary contribution to sharing Chinese culture with the world. 

A Legacy Beyond Translation

Tan’s work goes far beyond literary achievements. His Three Hundred Classic Chinese Poems serves as both a resource for German readers and a teaching tool for Chinese students learning German. By combining original Chinese texts, annotations, German translations, and cultural context, the book is an invaluable reference for cross-cultural education.

As a co-founder of SISU’s German Department, Tan Yuzhi also played a pivotal role in establishing exchange programs with German universities, enabling countless students to study abroad. Despite creating these opportunities for others, he never sought them for himself.

“He always put his students first,” recalls Yu Longfa, a former student and now a professor. “He paved the way for our growth but never prioritized his own benefit. His selflessness has shaped generations of scholars.”

For Tan Yuzhi, translation is more than a profession—it is a lifelong pursuit of understanding and sharing. In a world that often values speed over depth, his work reminds us of the enduring power of dedication and the universal resonance of art and culture.