What Are the Masterpieces of Su Shi?
Su Shi (1037–1101), courtesy name Zizhan and literary name Dongpo Jushi (Master Dongpo), was a towering figure in the literary and artistic circles of the Northern Song Dynasty. Spanning poetry, ci (lyric poetry), prose, calligraphy, and painting, his works have earned him the reputation of “the greatest literati of all time.” Below are some of his most iconic masterpieces, which continue to resonate globally across centuries.
1. Peak of Ci Poetry: Niannujiao · Reminiscing on Chibi
This ci poem stands as a landmark of Su Shi’s bold and unconstrained style, composed during his exile in Huangzhou. The opening lines—”The great river eastward flows, its waves have washed away all, the eminent figures of bygone years”—immediately evoke a sense of grand historical sweep, placing personal trials within the vastness of time. The vivid imagery of “Jagged rocks pierce the sky, crashing waves beat the shore, churning up piles of snow-like foam” contrasts with the philosophical resignation of “Life is but a dream; let me toast the river moon with a cup”, revealing his transcendent attitude toward adversity.
2. A Model of Poetry: Inscription on the Wall of Xilin Temple
“From the side, a range; from the end, a peak; / Far, near, high, low, no two views speak alike. / Why can’t I grasp Mount Lu’s true face? / Because I myself am in this very place.”
This seven-character quatrain uses Mount Lu as a metaphor to convey profound life wisdom. Its dialectical thinking and Zen-like insight make it a classic example of Song poetry’s fusion of philosophy and aesthetics.
3. A Masterpiece of Prose: The First Ode on Red Cliff
This prose piece seamlessly weaves together narration, scenery, lyricism, and philosophy. Memorable lines like “Only the clear wind on the river and the bright moon among the mountains—when heard, they become sounds; when seen, they become colors” not only depict the serene beauty of a night boat tour on Red Cliff but also express the author’s philosophy of transcending material desires. It is widely regarded as a pinnacle of Song Dynasty prose.
4. A Calligraphic Treasure: Cold Food Observance Script
Su Shi’s calligraphy embodies a unique artistic personality, and the Cold Food Observance Script is a masterpiece of his running script. The characters shift in style with his emotional flow—sometimes neat and precise, sometimes bold and unrestrained—vividly capturing the mix of melancholy and resilience during his exile in Huangzhou. Hailed as the “Third Best Running Script in the World,” it is a testament to his ability to channel inner emotions into art.
Su Shi’s works endure not only for their artistic brilliance but also for their profound humanistic spirit. Whether through the carefree resolve of “Let a straw cape and misty rain be my life’s companion” or the tender longing of “May we live long and share the beauty of the moon, though miles apart”, his works reveal the noblest qualities of Chinese literati. 跨越千年 (Kuà yuè qiān nián)—transcending a thousand years—these masterpieces continue to touch readers worldwide, bridging time and cultures with their universal wisdom and beauty.
