Few poets in Chinese—or even world—literature have captured the depths of human suffering and resilience as powerfully as 杜甫 (Du Fu, 712–770). Alongside 李白 (Li Bai), he is considered one of the “Two Greats” of Tang Dynasty poetry, but while Li Bai was the romantic wanderer, Du Fu was the poet of history, chronicling war, poverty, and the struggles of ordinary people with unmatched empathy.
A Life Shaped by Turmoil
Du Fu lived during the Tang Dynasty’s decline, witnessing the devastating An Lushan Rebellion (755–763), which tore the empire apart. Unlike many scholars of his time, he experienced firsthand the chaos of war, displacement, and poverty. His poetry reflects these hardships, blending personal sorrow with a deep concern for society.
Famous works like 《春望》 (“Spring View”) reveal his grief for a broken nation:
“国破山河在，城春草木深。”
“The nation shattered, mountains and rivers remain;
Spring in the city, grasses and trees grow wild.”
The Poet of the People
What sets Du Fu apart is his compassion for the marginalized. In 《茅屋为秋风所破歌》 (“My Thatched Hut Is Wrecked by the Autumn Wind”), he laments his own poverty but then dreams of a world where all people have shelter:
“安得广厦千万间，大庇天下寒士俱欢颜！”
“Oh, for a great mansion with ten thousand rooms,
Where all the poor of the world could find welcome!”
His ability to intertwine personal suffering with universal humanity makes his work timeless.
Legacy and Influence
Du Fu’s poetry was not fully appreciated in his lifetime, but later generations recognized his genius. Today, he is celebrated for his technical mastery (his regulated verse is considered unparalleled) and his moral depth.
Western readers often compare him to Shakespeare or Dante—not just for his literary brilliance, but for how he gave voice to the human condition.
Why Du Fu Matters Today
In an age of inequality and conflict, Du Fu’s poetry remains strikingly relevant. His works remind us of the power of empathy and the artist’s role in bearing witness to injustice.
If you haven’t read Du Fu before, I highly recommend starting with:
- 《兵车行》 (“The Ballad of the Army Carts”) – A harrowing depiction of conscription.
- 《登高》 (“On the Heights”) – A masterpiece of sorrow and resilience.
What’s your favorite Du Fu poem?
