Poetic Legends & Literary Lore
Uncover the dramatic lives, intense friendships, and historical turning points of Tang and Song poets.
Embracing the Moon: The Romantic Myth of Li Bai's Death
Did the Poet Immortal really drown while trying to scoop the moon's reflection out of the river? Uncover the enduring legend behind Li Bai's romantic passing.
Soulmates in Verse: The Lifelong Bond of Bai Juyi and Yuan Zhen
Known collectively as 'Yuan-Bai', Bai Juyi and Yuan Zhen defined Tang dynasty literature with their poetic harmony, political brotherhood, and legendary emotional connection.
The An Lushan Rebellion: The Fall of Tang and the Birth of Poetic History
Exploding in 755 AD, this catastrophic war shattered the High Tang golden age overnight, forcing poetry to transform from romantic optimism into grim, compassionate realism.
The Cosmic Encounter: When Li Bai Met Du Fu
In 744 AD, the two greatest giants of Chinese literature met for the first time in Luoyang. Explore the legendary friendship between the wild Poet Immortal and the young Poet Sage.
The Orchid Pavilion Gathering: A Spring of Masterpieces and Philosophy
In 353 AD, forty-two scholars gathered by a winding stream to compose poetry and drink wine. Discover how a simple spring ritual produced China's greatest calligraphy and philosophical essay.
The Four Stages of Tang Poetry: A Golden Age of Verse
From the vigorous revival in the Early Tang to the melancholic sunset of the Late Tang, explore the chronological evolution of China's greatest literary dynasty.