Du Fu: The Great Realist Poet of Tang Dynasty
Synopsis
Du Fu (712-770), courtesy name Zimei, also known as Shaoling Ye Lao, was one of the greatest realist poets of the Tang Dynasty. Together with Li Bai, he is known as 'Li-Du'. He is revered as the 'Poet Saint'. His poetry profoundly reflects the historical transformation from the peak to decline of the Tang Dynasty.
Life of Du Fu
Du Fu, courtesy name Zimei, also known as Shaoling Ye Lao, was born in 712 during the reign of Emperor Xuanzong and died in 770. He was born into a literary family in Gongyi, Henan Province. His grandfather Du Shenyan was a famous poet of early Tang. Du Fu showed exceptional talent from childhood, beginning to write poetry at age seven.
Major Works
| Period | Years | Representative Works | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading & Traveling | 735-745 | Gazing at Mount Tai, Room Soldier's Barbarian Horse | Bold and unrestrained |
| Struggling in Chang'an | 746-755 | Song of the War Chariots, Song of the Beauty | Social critique |
| Captivity & Exile | 756-759 | Spring Prospect, Three Officials & Three Partings | Patriotic and mournful |
| Wandering Southwest | 760-770 | Song of the Thatched Cottage, Ascending the Height | Simple and profound |
Masterpiece Analysis
"Spring Prospect"
'While the country lies shattered, mountains and rivers remain; spring arrives in the city, but grass and trees grow deep.' Written during the An Lushan Rebellion, this poem expresses the poet's deep concern for the nation's fate.
"Song of the Thatched Cottage"
'How I wish for ten thousand broad halls, to shelter all the poor scholars of the world!' This demonstrates Du Fu's noble spirit of caring for the common people.
Historical Significance
Du Fu's poetry is regarded as 'poetic history'. His realist approach profoundly captured the life of Tang society. He is called the 'Poet Saint' and together with Li Bai, the 'Poet Immortal', represents the two peaks of Chinese classical poetry.
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