Tim Barrett, a historian, Tian Yuan Tan, a Chinese literature expert, and Frances Wood, a curator, dive into the artistry of Tang dynasty poetry. They explore the joy-filled verses of Li Bai, celebrated for his vibrant, wine-centric themes, and the somber reflections of Du Fu, who wrote amidst societal turmoil. The discussion highlights the cultural richness of the Tang era, the tension between individual expression and collective struggle, and traces the enduring legacy of these poets in both Chinese literature and beyond.
