During a recent gathering titled “Tribute to Li Bai” in Jiangyou, Sichuan—the celebrated poet’s hometown—over 30 esteemed poets, editors from poetry magazines, and winners of the 2023 Li Bai Poetry Award converged for discussions as part of the “Roaming the Poetry City: Meeting the Great Taibai” event, which is part of the upcoming 2024 Li Bai Cultural Tourism Festival.
Ji Di Ma Jia, director of the Poetry Committee of the China Writers Association, highlighted the timeless nature of honoring Li Bai. “For poets everywhere, Li Bai represents a spiritual peak. His works delve into fundamental truths about the human experience. His profound inquiries into life, space-time, existence, and reality carry lasting significance and resonate in today’s world.”
Li Shao Jun, editor-in-chief of Poetry Magazine, spoke about Li Bai’s deep appreciation of nature, noting that his poetry embodies the essence of mountains and rivers. “To honor Li Bai is to pay tribute to the grandeur of the natural world. It revitalizes contemporary poetry and showcases the vibrant spirit of our times through the power of verse.”
Gong Xue Min, vice-chair of the Sichuan Writers Association and editor of the magazine “Stars,” shared a heartwarming tradition. “Every year during the Qingming Festival, poets from Jiangyou spontaneously gather at Li Bai’s tomb to recite poetry in our local dialect, celebrating his enduring legacy. Contemporary poets like Chen Dahua, Pu Yongjian, and Jiang Xuefeng are drawing inspiration from Li Bai in their own poetic journeys.”
Li Yuan Sheng, a recipient of the Li Bai Poetry Award, remarked on Li Bai’s embodiment of Sichuan culture, illustrating a bold pursuit of freedom, self-liberation, and a profound respect for individual life.
Qin Li Yan, another main award winner, reflected on his evolving understanding of Li Bai. “I once perceived Li Bai as somewhat naïve. Now, I realize that holding onto such innocence is no small feat, especially after enduring exile—from Baidi City back to Jiangling, facing numerous hardships. Despite it all, he maintained an unconquerable youthful spirit. This truly captures the essence of the flourishing Tang Dynasty.”
Biao Bao, vice-chair of the Gansu Provincial Writers Association, concluded with a thought on the longevity of great poetry. “Great poetry never ages; even today, Li Bai’s verses evoke intense emotions. His candid expressions of love and hate, joy and sorrow are vividly present throughout his work. A true poet must stay true to their innermost feelings and authentically reflect their lives for their work to resonate deeply with others.”
