Liu You: An Illustrated Biography

Author: Zhu Dongrun
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2007-01-01
Features: Lu You (1125—1210), styled Wuguan, styled Fangweng, was a native of Shanyin (now Shaoxing, Zhejiang). He was a famous patriotic poet of the Southern Song Dynasty. During the reign of Emperor Xiaozong, he was granted the status of a jinshi and held positions such as the Assistant Magistrate of Kuizhou and later became a Court Councillor and a of the Ministry of Rites. Lu You consistently upheld the anti-Jin stance throughout his life, though he suffered repeated setbacks from the faction advocating surrender, his patriotic resolve never wavered. He was diligent in writing, leaving behind over 9,000 poems. His poems are characterized by a bold and grand style, while his ci (a form of Chinese poetry) is primarily heroic and mournful, with touches of gentle and elegant beauty. Previous scholars compared his lyrical grace to Qin Guan and his boldness to Su Shi. He authored works such as The Collection of Weinan and The Manuscript of Jiannan. This book vividly portrays Lu You's, showcasing the poet's indomitable spirit, immortal poetic talent, and deeply moving love life.