Chinese Great Poet:Su Shi
Su Shi (January 8, 1037 – August 24, 1101) was one of the major poets of the Song era. He is often referred to as Su Dongpo. Besides his renowned poetry, his other existent writings are of great value in the understanding of 11th century Chinese travel literature as well as details of the 11th century Chinese iron industry.
Su Shi had several children, the eldest being Su Mai, who would also become a government official by 1084. After Su Shi’s wife had died, he wrote this poem in her memory, entitled “Jiang zhenzi”
Ten years living and dead have drawn apart
I do nothing to remember
But I cannot forget
Your lonely grave a thousand miles away …
Nowhere can I talk of my sorrow –
Even if we met, how would you know me
My face full of dust
My hair like snow?
In the dark of night, a dream: suddenly, I am home
You by the window
Doing your hair
I look at you and cannot speak
Your face is streaked by endless tears
Year after year must they break my heart
These moonlit nights?
That low pine grave?
