Florence Chia-ying Yeh, a beloved scholar and teacher of classical Chinese poetry, passed away at the age of 100 on Sunday, announced Nankai University in Tianjin, where she devoted decades of her life to education and research.
A Life Steeped in Poetry
Born in Beijing in 1924 to a literary family, Yeh immersed herself in classical poetry from a young age. She began her teaching career in 1945, sharing her passion for poetry with students across generations.
Global Educator and Influencer
Yeh’s dedication to classical Chinese poetry transcended borders. She taught at universities in Taiwan and the United States before settling in Vancouver, Canada, in 1969. As a tenured professor at the University of British Columbia and a fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, she introduced the richness of Chinese poetry to international audiences.
Return to Homeland
In 1979, Yeh began returning to the Chinese mainland during holidays to give lectures, eventually settling at Nankai University in Tianjin. Even into her 90s, she continued her academic pursuits, inspiring countless students, including prominent writers like Kenneth Hsien-yung Pai and Hsi Mu-jung.
Generosity and Commitment
In a testament to her unwavering commitment to Chinese culture, Yeh donated her entire savings and earnings—35.68 million yuan (around 4.93 million USD)—to Nankai University in 2018 and 2019 to support research on traditional Chinese culture.
Honors and Recognitions
Throughout her life, Yeh received numerous accolades, including the “Lifetime Achievement Award in Chinese Poetry,” the “Most Influential Foreign Expert During 40 Years of China’s Reform and Opening-Up,” the 2019 “Chinese Government Friendship Award,” and was named “Touching China 2020 Person of the Year.”
A Teacher at Heart
Despite her many accomplishments, Yeh cherished her role as a teacher above all. On her 90th birthday, she expressed, “If there is a life after this, I would choose to be a teacher again, and still teach classical poetry.”
A Legacy That Lives On
Florence Yeh’s profound impact on classical Chinese poetry and education will continue to inspire future generations. Her life’s work not only preserved a vital part of Chinese heritage but also bridged cultural gaps worldwide.
