Chinese philosopher Chengde Chen makes a persuasive case for a serious rethink of issues which arose during the modern era, came to a head during the 20th century, and present a challenge for our new century. In Chen's verses the forward movement of a narrative (the 'normal' aim of poetry) is replaced by the forward movement of an argument. It is these challenging arguments which carry the reader along, and sustain the interest. The style is Confucian rather than logical, which adds to the interest. The interest of Chen's poems is increased by the fact that his philosophy is not abstract and remote, but related to everyday problems with which we are all faced.

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