Chinese poet of the Tang Dynasty (772-846)
A Tang dynasty poet who wrote in plain language when everyone else was chasing ornament—and became the most widely read writer in medieval East Asia because of it.
Bai Juyi (772–846) served as governor across three provinces during the Tang dynasty, and his poems drew heavily from what he saw: the rhythms of administration, the textures of everyday life. While other poets cultivated difficulty, he worked in a low-key, near-vernacular style that traveled easily—his verse spread through Japan, where he's still known as Haku Rakuten, and shaped that country's literary development. His younger brother Bai Xingjian wrote short stories. The long narrative poems made his name permanent: "Chang Hen Ge" (Song of Everlasting Sorrow) traced the story of Yang Guifei…
Sourced, dated quotes from Bai Juyi
I am lucky not to have such bad habits. I only indulge myself in drinking wine and writing poetry. I am indeed indulgent, but what harm will that do?
I set my eyes on the green mountain, and let my hair grow white. Who knows how many years I have left to live in this world?
I lay my harp on the curved table, Sitting there idly, filled only with emotions. Why should I trouble to play? A breeze will come and sweep the strings.
For ten years I never left my books; I went up ... and won unmerited praise. My high place I do not much prize; The joy of my parents will first make me proud.
And I today ... by virtue of what rightHave I never once tended field or tree? My government-pay is three hundred tons; At the year's end I have still grain in hand.
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