He Zhizhang

He Zhizhang, born in the year six hundred fifty-nine, was a distinguished poet, calligrapher, writer, and politician during the illustrious Tang dynasty. His journey in civil service began after he achieved the prestigious jinshi degree in six hundred ninety-five, under the reign of Empress Regnant Wu Zetian. He dedicated nearly five decades of his life to the imperial court, serving under three subsequent emperors: Zhongzong, Ruizong, and Xuanzong. His roles included significant positions in the Imperial Academy (guozijian) and the Ministry of Rites and Ministry of Works.

Renowned for his exceptional poetry and calligraphy, He Zhizhang is celebrated as one of the Eight Immortals of the Wine Cup, a testament to his artistic prowess. Although only a few of his works have survived the passage of time, his contributions to literature remain impactful. Among his most notable pieces are the evocative 'Ode to the Willow' and the poignant pair of poems titled 'On Returning Home.' The latter, composed at the age of eighty-five upon his retirement granted by Emperor Xuanzong in seven hundred forty-four, reflects a deep sense of nostalgia as he returned to his home village.

The first poem in this pair, 'Returning Home As An Unrecognized Old Man,' has gained significant recognition, being anthologized in the esteemed 'Three Hundred Tang Poems' and featured in elementary school textbooks across China. Its lines resonate with themes of identity and the passage of time, capturing the essence of He Zhizhang's reflective spirit.

In addition to his literary achievements, He Zhizhang's calligraphic works also hold historical significance. One of his notable pieces is a grass-script copy of the Xiaojing, which is currently housed in Japan. Another important work is an engraved stele, known as 'Long Rui Gong Ji,' located near Shaoxing in Zhejiang province, further showcasing his artistic legacy.