Classical Chinese poetry spanning three millennia. The verses of Li Tai Po, filled with melancholic pain, drunkenness, and cheerful exuberance, are among the most beautiful poems in world literature. Together with the poems of his contemporary Tu Fu (from the classical Tang period), they form the core of this collection of Chinese poetry from over three thousand years. With "The Chinese Flute," Hans Bethge began his series of adaptations of Oriental poetry in 1907. The response was extraordinary. Bethge's sensitive verses and finely rhythmized language captivated not only readers but also inspired numerous composers to set them to music. A prominent example is Gustav Mahler and his "Song of the Earth," which is based on seven poems from "The Chinese Flute.".