Bai Jui was one of the greatest Chinese poets of the Tang Dynasty.

What is Bai Juyi famous for?

Bai Juyi is famous for his poem `Song of Everlasting Sorrow' which became a best-seller when it was published in c. 806 and remains popular in the present day.

Why was Bai Juyi's work so popular?

Bai Juyi's works were popular because, unlike other poets of his time, he wrote in a simple style which was accessible to readers of all social classes and levels of education. He also published and distributed his own works in more editions than those of his contemporaries.

How did Bai Juyi die?

Bai Juyi died of natural causes in 846 at the age of 75 after suffering a stroke in 839.

Bai Juyi

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Definition

Bai Juyi (l. 772-846) was one of the greatest poets of the Tang Dynasty (618-907) along with Li Po (l. 701-762) and Du Fu (l. 712-770). He was a government official who got in trouble with authorities a number of times for not following the rules or doing as his superiors thought he should.

More about: Bai Juyi

Timeline

772 - 846
Life of Bai Juyi, greatest poet of later Tang Dynasty, author of "Song of Everlasting Sorrow".
c. 788
Bai Juyi travels to Chang'an to have poetry reviewed and published.
c. 806
Bai Juyi Publishes "Song of Everlasting Sorrow", his most famous poem.
815
Bai Juyi exiled for impious poetry.
819
Bai Juyi serves as Governmental Secretary.
821
Bai Juyi serves as Prefectural Governor.
822
Bai Juyi serves as Governor of Hangzhou.
c. 831
Bai Juyi retires to his estate, writes poetry, hosts grand parties.
839
Bai Juyi suffers stroke.
846
Bai Juyi dies at his estate.