"The Book of Songs," also known as the Shijing, is one of the oldest collections of Chinese poetry, dating back to the 11th to 7th centuries BCE. It consists of 305 poems that reflect various aspects of life, including love, work, and rituals. The poems are divided into three sections: the Air, the Hymns, and the Odes, showcasing the cultural and social values of ancient China. This anthology is significant in Chinese literature and has influenced many later works. It is often studied for its historical context and poetic form, providing insights into the thoughts and feelings of people during the early Zhou Dynasty.