Personal Library -- Poems by Tao Yuanming

Author: Tao Yuanming (Eastern Jin Dynasty), compiled by Meng Erdong
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-07-01
Features: Tao Yuanming is the pioneer 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, making him a figure in the history of Chinese literature. Tao Yuanming plays a crucial role in shaping the entire cultural and traditional life of Chinese intellectuals and has had a profound and lasting influence on later generations. By despising fame and wealth, looking down upon luxury, and living in seclusion in the countryside, he set an example of nobility and detachment for later generations, inspiring and guiding Chinese scholars and officials across generations, becoming their model for self-cultivation and spiritual destination. Since the Southern Dynasties literati and composed poems in the style of learning from Tao, the tradition of "imitating Tao" and "harmonizing with Tao" has continued through the ages. Few accomplished poets in China's history have failed to express their admiration for his poetic art and spirit. Li Bai said, "When will I reach Pengze, to sing wildly before the Five Willow Trees?" Du Fu said, "How can I have a mind like Tao and Xie?" Bai Juyi said, "I often admire Tao Pengze, how high and profound his literary thoughts are!" Lu You said, "I admire Tao Yuanming in my poetry, but I regret not grasping its subtlety." Su Shi, in his later years, also highly regarded Tao Yuanming. He said, "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 ancient and modern have praised him for his authenticity." Shen Deqian, a Qing Dynasty scholar, remarked, "Tao's poetry has a vast and noble heart, with a depth and simplicity that cannot be easily fathomed."