Du Fu

Date of Birth: 712 AD

Zodiac Sign: Unknown

Date of Death: 770 AD

Biography

Du Fu, also known as Tu Fu, was a prominent Chinese poet during the Tang dynasty, often referred to as one of China’s greatest literary figures. Born in 712 in Gongyi, Henan province, he lived through a tumultuous period in Chinese history marked by political instability and social upheaval. Despite his aspirations for a career in government, Du Fu faced numerous challenges, including poverty, illness, and displacement. His poetry, characterized by its deep empathy, vivid imagery, and moral integrity, offers profound insights into the human condition and the societal issues of his time. Over his lifetime, Du Fu composed around 1,400 poems, many of which have been celebrated for their technical mastery and emotional depth.

5 Interesting Facts about Du Fu

1. Du Fu is often paired with Li Bai (Li Po) as one of the two greatest poets in Chinese history, although their styles and themes were quite different.

2. He lived during the An Lushan Rebellion, a devastating civil war that significantly influenced his work.

3. Despite his numerous contributions to literature, Du Fu struggled with poverty and never achieved high office.

4. Du Fu’s poetry spans a wide range of genres, including historical, philosophical, and personal themes.

5. His works were not fully appreciated during his lifetime but gained immense recognition and admiration in subsequent centuries.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Du Fu

1. “A good poem is like a pearl set in gold.”

2. “The country is broken, though hills and rivers remain.”

3. “Writing freezes time into eternity.”

4. “The sorrow of parting is like an unending river.”

5. “The wind carries my thoughts across the mountains and seas.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

There is no historical record of Du Fu’s net worth; he lived a life marked by financial hardship and poverty.

Children

Du Fu had at least two sons, Du Zongwu and Du Zongwen. His family often struggled with poverty, particularly during times of political unrest and displacement.