Li Yu (Later Tang)

Li Yu (李煜) (Later Tang), also known as Li Houzhu (李後主) (meaning "The Last Ruler Li"), was the third ruler of the Southern Tang dynasty (961–976/978) during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period in Chinese history. He reigned under the era names Yongxi and Kaibao. Despite being a capable poet and artist, especially renowned for his ci poetry (lyric poetry), he was an ineffective ruler who ultimately presided over the dynasty's fall to the Song dynasty.

Born Li Congjia (李從嘉), he later changed his name to Li Yu to honor his elder brother, Li Hongji, who was initially the heir apparent. Li Yu unexpectedly ascended the throne after Li Hongji's early death.

His reign was marked by internal political strife and the growing power of the Song dynasty to the north. He attempted to maintain peace through diplomacy and tribute, but his efforts ultimately failed. In 975, the Song army conquered the Southern Tang capital, Nanjing. Li Yu surrendered in 976 and was taken captive to the Song capital, Kaifeng.

He was given the title "Marquis of Disobedience" (違命侯), a mocking reference to his resistance to the Song. Li Yu spent the remaining years of his life in captivity, composing poems that expressed his longing for his lost kingdom and the pain of his confinement. He is believed to have been poisoned by Emperor Taizong of Song in 978.

Li Yu is considered one of the most significant poets of the Southern Tang dynasty. His ci poems are known for their poignant imagery, emotional depth, and melancholic tone. They often reflect his personal experiences, including his regret for losing his kingdom, his yearning for his former life, and his reflections on the transience of power and beauty. His works significantly influenced later generations of Chinese poets and remain highly regarded for their artistic merit and historical significance. Some of his most famous poems include "Yu Meiren" (虞美人) and "Lang Tao Sha" (浪淘沙). His poetry represents a transition from the refined and elegant style of earlier ci poetry to a more personal and emotionally expressive form.