Chinese poetry often is underestimated by people who do not explicitly study Chinese or are engaged in related fields. Different to the West, it is a very essential part and direct reflection plus embodiment of Chinese culture. Consider it a tragic thing or not, if someone were to ask a German person about a certain German word or saying, generally nobody would reply by resorting to poetry, simply because the roots of words do not directly derive from poetry. For Chinese, this is very different. Most Chinese sayings and vocabulary find their root in the works of ancient Chinese philosophers and Chinese poets. If you learn Chinese you will know that without understanding their usage there, it almost seems impossible to master the language. From the works of the Tang Dynasty to modern poets, China’s literary tradition possesses many influential poets whose works have stood the test of time. One may consider incorporating them into online Chinese classes. Below is a look for you at some of the most famous Chinese poets and their most celebrated poems.
Li Bai (701–762 AD)
Often called the “Immortal Poet” or “Poet Transcendent,” Li Bai is one of the most revered figures of the Tang Dynasty and Chinese poetry as a whole. Known for his passionate and free-spirited verses, he wrote with a unique style of romanticism and spontaneity. His works capture the beauty of nature, and some short poems of his are already taught to Chinese children in kindergarten. The depth of human emotion, and a zest for life that resonates through the ages.
The most famous poem: “Quiet Night Thoughts” (《静夜思》) This iconic piece captures the longing of a traveler far from home. Li Bai’s evocative imagery of the moonlight shining through his window and the homesickness it evokes remains a poignant reminder of the universal theme of longing.
“Before my bed, the bright moonlight glows,
I suspect it is frost on the ground.
I raise my head to gaze at the bright moon,
And lower it, thinking of my hometown.”
Du Fu (712–770 AD)
Considered the Shakespeare of Chinese literature, Du Fu’s poetry is revered for its moral integrity, social commentary, and intricate craftsmanship. His life, marked by war and personal hardship, deeply influenced his writing, making his work resonate with themes of resilience, humanity, and the harsh realities of his time.
Famous Poem: “Spring View” (《春望》) Written during a period of chaos and war, this poem captures the sorrow and hope that permeate a war-torn society. It showcases Du Fu’s unmatched ability to blend personal grief with collective experience.
“The nation is broken, though mountains and rivers remain,
In the city spring grows, wild grass and trees reign.
Moved by the times, flowers shed their tears,
Hating parting, birds cry in fear.”
Wang Wei (701–761 AD)
Wang Wei was both a poet and an accomplished painter. He infused his works with Zen Buddhist principles and his poetry is marked by an almost meditative quality, reflecting harmonious relationships between nature and humanity.
Famous Poem: “Deer Enclosure” (《鹿柴》) This piece exemplifies Wang Wei’s serene approach, painting a vivid picture of quietude and natural splendor. His verses transport the reader into a tranquil landscape where human presence is dwarfed by nature’s beauty.
“Empty mountain, no man is seen,
Only heard are echoes of men’s talk.
Reflected light enters the deep forest,
And shines again on green moss.”
Bai Juyi (772–846 AD)
Bai Juyi’s work stood out for its accessibility, written in a way that resonated with the general public. He was known for his clear, direct style and his focus on social issues, which made his poetry popular not only during his lifetime but also among later generations.
Famous Poem: “Song of Everlasting Regret” (《长恨歌》) This long narrative poem tells the tragic love story of Emperor Xuanzong and his beloved consort, Yang Guifei. The tale delves into themes of love, loss, and the consequences of indulgence, cementing Bai Juyi’s reputation as a master storyteller.
“She looks back and smiles, all smiles,
Before opening her mouth, there’s already a breath of fragrance.
From the heavenly realm, come sounds of soft bells,
Moving the soul to realms unknown.”
Su Shi (1037–1101 AD)
Su Shi should be one of the most well-known and important poets there are. So much as that at Chinese universities, often entire courses are given to his poems solely. He was a prominent figure in the Song Dynasty and also an accomplished calligrapher, painter, as well as statesman.
Famous Poem: “Prelude to Water Melody” (《水调歌头》) This famous piece was written during the Mid-Autumn Festival and expresses Su Shi’s yearning for his brother, whom he deeply missed.
“When will the moon be clear and bright?
With a cup of wine in my hand, I ask the blue sky.
I don’t know what season it would be,
In the heavens on this night.”
Qu Yuan (c. 340–278 BC): The Patriotic Poet
One of the earliest and most important poets in Chinese history, Qu Yuan was a statesman during the Warring States period and is often credited with establishing classical Chinese poetry. In fact, the Dragon Boat Festival goes back to his legacy! His loyalty and patriotism led to his eventual exile, during which he composed many of his greatest works.
Famous Poem: “Li Sao” (《离骚》) This epic poem is considered Qu Yuan’s magnum opus, blending mythology, allegory, and personal reflection to create a powerful expression of loyalty and despair. The poem’s themes of loyalty, virtue, and the poet’s inner turmoil have made it a cornerstone of Chinese literature.
Cao Zhi (192–232 AD)
A member of the royal family during the Three Kingdoms period, Cao Zhi was known for his eloquence and mastery of the five-syllable line. His poems often reflected his ambition and frustrations, along with profound emotional depth.
Famous Poem: “The Quatrain of Seven Steps” (《七步诗》) This short but powerful poem was composed under duress when Cao Zhi was ordered to prove his poetic talent by his brother. It is a veiled allegory for brotherhood and betrayal.
“Beans are boiled to make soup,
The beanstalks burn under the pot.
The beans weep in the pot,
We were born from the same root,
Why should we torment each other so bitterly?”
A Legacy of Timeless Beauty
Chinese poetry is a treasure of emotional depth. From Li Bai’s free-spirited verses to Du Fu’s poignant reflections and to Su Shi’s philosophical musings, Chinese poets stay anchored in Chinese history and art. Poems offer a window not just into the past but into the enduring themes of human experience: love, loss, nature, and the quest for meaning.
