Du Fu

Du Fu was born into a family of scholars and officials in Gongxian, Henan, during the Tang Dynasty. His family had a strong tradition of literary and governmental service.

Du Fu began his formal education, studying the Confucian classics, poetry, and calligraphy. His early exposure to literature and the arts would shape his future career as a poet.

Du Fu took the imperial examinations in the capital, Chang'an, but failed to pass. This setback delayed his entry into the civil service, leading him to travel and broaden his experiences.

Du Fu met the renowned poet Li Bai in Luoyang, marking the beginning of a deep and influential friendship. The two poets traveled together, sharing their love of poetry and nature.

Du Fu returned to Chang'an to retake the imperial examinations, but again failed to pass. Despite this, he continued to write poetry and seek patronage from influential officials.

The An Lushan Rebellion erupted, plunging the Tang Dynasty into chaos. Du Fu, along with many others, was forced to flee the capital and experience the hardships of war and displacement.

Du Fu was appointed to a minor position in the court of Emperor Suzong, but the political turmoil and his own disillusionment led him to resign and return to his family.

Du Fu settled in Chengdu, where he built a thatched cottage and continued to write poetry. This period of relative stability allowed him to produce some of his most famous works, including 'The Thatched Hut Destroyed by Autumn Gales.'

Du Fu was appointed as a military advisor to the governor of Hanzhong, a position that allowed him to contribute to the war effort and continue his literary pursuits.

Du Fu died in Hengyang, Hunan, while traveling to visit his son. Despite a life marked by political turmoil and personal hardship, he left behind a rich legacy as one of the greatest poets in Chinese history.