Among the countless brilliant figures in ancient Chinese literature, there is one poet whose works have always resonated deeply with me. His name is Du Fu (杜甫), often referred to as the "Sage of Poetry" (詩圣). For me, Du Fu's poetry transcends time and speaks directly to the human experience.

Du Fu lived during the Tang Dynasty, a period known for its cultural flourishing. However, his life was marked by turmoil and hardship. Born into a family of modest means, he faced numerous challenges throughout his life, including poverty, political instability, and personal loss. Despite these difficulties, he continued to write with an unwavering commitment to truth and beauty.

What draws me most to Du Fu's poetry is its profound humanity. Unlike some poets who idealize life or focus solely on nature, Du Fu often writes about the struggles and emotions of ordinary people. His lines are filled with empathy and compassion, capturing the pain of war, the joy of family reunions, and the fleeting beauty of everyday moments. One of my favorite poems by him is "Spring View" (春望):

"國破山河在，城春草木深。

感時花濺淚，恨別鳥驚心。"

This poem reflects Du Fu's deep sorrow over the destruction caused by war, yet it also conveys hope through the enduring presence of nature. The imagery of flowers shedding tears and birds startling at parting evokes a universal sense of longing and grief that feels timeless.

Du Fu’s ability to blend personal emotion with broader social commentary makes his work particularly compelling. He once wrote: “An old man weeps in silence, his tears falling on his clothes.” These words encapsulate not only his own experiences but also the shared burdens of countless others throughout history.

In modern times, when we face our own challenges—whether they be personal or global—it is comforting to know that someone centuries ago expressed similar feelings so eloquently. Du Fu reminds us that even in darkness, there is beauty; even in despair, there is hope.

To conclude, Du Fu remains my favorite ancient Chinese poet because his work embodies the essence of what great poetry should be: honest, moving, and universally relatable. Through his verses, I find solace and inspiration—a connection across millennia that transcends language and culture.

So, whenever I feel lost or overwhelmed, I turn to Du Fu’s poetry. It慰藉我的心靈，讓我重新找回內心的平靜與力量。