One of my favourite Chinese poets has to be Du Mu. His eloquence and style sweeps me off my feet to a Land not only far away but to a place one only visits in dreams and even then quite rarely.
His other names were Muzhi Fachuang and he lived in the late Tang Dynasty where poetry in China was thriving and art in general was very much in flourishing mode. Although he held public office he never got too high up in the ranks as he had jealous enemies around him. He loved to compose lyrical poetry and pose in a romantic style.
Here is just one of his poems that will set you in a light mood.
Pure Brightness Festival
Du Mu
| Pure Brightness time rain disordered and confused Road on traveler almost broken spirit Politely ask inn what place be Shepherd boy far point apricot blossom village | At the time of the Pure Brightness festival, the rain is swirling round, On the road, the spirit of the traveler is almost broken. He politely asks at what place an inn can be found? A shepherd boy points far away to apricot blossom village. |
You can find more here: CHINESE POETRY
