Du Fu's poetry brilliantly spans personal introspection, expressions of friendship, love, and profound social commentary. His verses often grapple with his own uncertainties, as well as the grand tapestry of human experiences and natural beauty. The depth of his work is most vividly showcased in the poems addressed to personal acquaintances and in those celebrating the natural world.

Introspective and Personal Reflections

Du Fu's literary oeuvre is replete with moments of introspection, particularly during periods of personal strife such as failing civil-service exams or grappling with declining health. He famously likened himself to an “emaciated horse,” capturing his sense of weariness and self-doubt. Despite these struggles, Du Fu's poems are often rich with allusions to China's illustrious past, using these references to comment on contemporary societal issues. However, it is through his personal writings to family and friends that the true depth of his literary craft is unveiled.

Celebrating Friendship and Family

The Tang period in China revered literary exchanges among friends, with Du Fu excelling in this form. His friendship with fellow poet Li Bo stands out, forming a scholarly and personal bond that was often celebrated in verse. Du Fu's affection for Li Bo is encapsulated in lines such as, “I love my Lord as young brother loves elder brother.” Such sentiments highlight the poet's internal dilemma whether to pursue a governmental career or emulate Li Bo's life of poetic withdrawal. His admiration extends beyond poets, as seen in his piece “For Wei Ba, in Retirement,” where Du Fu reflects on the rapid passage of youth and the enduring bonds of friendship, despite physical separation.

Expressions of Love

In a departure from convention, Du Fu crafted heartfelt poetry centered on his wife, such as the renowned “Moonlit Night.” This intimate piece evokes his longing during their separation and paints a tender portrait of his wife, a rarity in an era when women were seldom the subject of affectionate poetry. The poem's evocative imagery and emotional depth underscore Du Fu's revolutionary approach to themes of love and family in his work.

Nature as a Source of Inspiration

A master of classical poetry, Du Fu's portrayal of nature varies from idyllic to symbolic. In “The River by Our Village,” he muses on the serene beauty of nature, while in “The Winding River,” nature becomes a metaphor for life's transience and the futility of human ambition. These reflections urge a harmonious existence with nature, contrasting with the artificial struggles of human endeavors.

Social Commentary and Historical Insight

Du Fu's engagement with the socio-political landscape of his time is strikingly evident in his poems, notably earning him the title of “poet-historian.” Influenced by Confucian ideals, his work reflects a deep sense of public duty and social critique. The “Song of the War Wagons” vividly portrays the harsh realities of conscription, capturing the plight of ordinary people during the emperor's imperial pursuits. Similarly, his “officer” poems further reveal the personal and collective costs of war, reflecting his empathetic regard for human suffering.

Sympathy and Compassion in Poetry

Du Fu's poetry frequently embodies the Confucian ideal of re, or benevolence. His work such as “A Fine Lady” illustrates compassion for those affected by societal upheaval. The poem's vivid imagery of a woman reduced to poverty by rebellion demonstrates Du Fu's capacity to evoke empathy and highlight the broader human condition through personal narratives.

Rebellion and Personal Experience

Few poets addressed the An-Shi Rebellion as Du Fu did. His works such as “P’eng-ya Road” document personal experiences amid conflict, blending narrative with themes of survival and hospitality. The poem exemplifies the importance of friendship...