Tao Yuanming's Poetry - Fragrant Book

Author: Tao Yuanming (Eastern Jin Dynasty), compiled by Meng Erdong
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-07-01
Features:▼Complete Content▼Sandalwood Aroma▼Compact and Lightweight▼Original Illustrations▼Portable
Tao Yuanming is the founder of Chinese pastoral poetry and the undisputed ancestor of the Tang Dynasty pastoral poetry school. With his own pastoral life as the subject, he authentically depicts the joys and hardships of farming in the countryside, truly earning his place as a figure in the history of Chinese literature. Tao Yuanming plays a crucial role in shaping the entire Chinese culture and the life aspirations of traditional Chinese scholars, exerting a profound and lasting influence on later generations. By despising fame and fortune, looking down upon wealth and status, and choosing to live in seclusion, he set an example of nobility and detachment for posterity, inspiring generations of Chinese scholars and becoming their model for self-cultivation and spiritual.
After the Southern Dynasties literati and composed poems in the style of Tao Yuanming, the tradition of "imitating Tao" and "harmonizing with Tao" continued through the ages. Few accomplished poets in China's history have failed to express admiration for his poetic art and spirit. Li Bai said, "When shall I reach Pengze, to sing wildly before the Five Willow Trees?" Du Fu remarked, "How can I have a mind like Tao and Xie?" Bai Juyi stated, "I often admire Tao Pengze, whose literary thoughts are so profound and ethereal." Lu You expressed, "I envy Tao Yuanming's poetry, yet I regret not grasping its subtleties." In his later years, Su Shi held Tao Yuanming in very high regard, saying, "Tao Yuanming sought office when he wished, without shame in doing so; he retired to seclusion when he wished, without pride in leaving. Hungry, he knocked on doors for food; full, he welcomed guests with chicken and millet. The sages of all ages praise him for his authenticity."
The Qing Dynasty scholar Shen Deqian remarked, "Tao's poetry is vast and profound, with an indescribably deep and unadorned beauty."