Yuan Mei

Yuan Mei (袁枚; 1716–1798) was a prominent Chinese poet, scholar, and artist of the Qing Dynasty. He is best known for his poetry, which often celebrated personal expression, nature, and the everyday experiences of common people. Yuan Mei challenged the prevailing orthodox Confucian literary standards of his time, advocating for a more spontaneous and emotionally authentic style.

Born in Qiantang (錢塘, present-day Hangzhou, Zhejiang province), Yuan Mei excelled in the imperial examinations, earning his jinshi degree at a young age. He served in various official positions but ultimately resigned from government service in 1749 to pursue his literary interests. He purchased a garden in Nanjing, which he named Suiyuan (隨園, Garden of Contentment), where he lived and wrote for much of his life.

Yuan Mei's literary output was prolific and diverse. His poetry collections, such as Suiyuan Shanhua (隨園詩話, Garden of Contentment on Poetry), established him as a leading literary figure. He also wrote essays, travelogues, and plays. His writings often championed individual freedom and criticized the rigid social hierarchies and artistic conventions of his era.

Beyond his poetry, Yuan Mei is also known for his views on women's education and talent. He actively supported and taught female poets, believing that women were capable of achieving great literary accomplishments. He compiled anthologies of women's poetry and defended their right to express themselves freely.

Yuan Mei's legacy continues to be felt in Chinese literature and culture. His emphasis on individuality, his appreciation for the beauty of nature, and his advocacy for women's education have made him a significant and enduring figure in Chinese history. His works are still widely read and studied today.