Li Bai

Who is Li Bai?

Li Bai (also known as Li Po, courtesy name Taibai) was one of the greatest poets of the Tang dynasty, often called the 'Immortal Poet' (Shixian). Born in the early 8th century, likely in Central Asia or Sichuan, he lived a wandering life marked by travel, friendship, wine, and a deep love of nature and freedom. He briefly served at the imperial court of Emperor Xuanzong but was dismissed, spending much of his life roaming China. Roughly a thousand of his poems survive, celebrated for their vivid imagery, spontaneity, romantic exuberance, and Taoist sensibility. Famous works include 'Quiet Night Thoughts,' 'Bring in the Wine,' and 'Down Zhongnan Mountain.' Along with his friend Du Fu, he is regarded as one of the two towering figures of Chinese poetry. Legend holds that he drowned trying to embrace the moon's reflection in a river, a fitting myth for his romantic reputation.

Sources: Arthur Waley, The Poetry and Career of Li Po, 1950 · New Book of Tang (Xin Tang Shu), biography of Li Bai, 1060