Poetic Footprints: Lu You’s Life Encounters and Emotional Transformations Along the Zhejiang East Canal

Abstract

Lu You (1125-1210), a renowned poet of the Southern Song Dynasty, had his life deeply intertwined with the Zhejiang East Canal and the city of Shaoxing. As one of the most significant waterways in ancient China, the Zhejiang East Canal connected the Qiantang River to the East China Sea, facilitating economic exchanges and cultural integration within the region. Born in Shaoxing, Lu You was nurtured by the local landscapes and rich cultural heritage, which became a crucial source for his literary inspiration. His poetry not only portrays the natural beauty and folk customs of his hometown but also chronicles his personal experiences and emotional transformations—from early aspirations for success in the imperial examinations to later ambitions of resisting the Jin invaders, and finally to a tranquil retirement in his later years. Through the study of Lu You's works, we gain profound insights into the essence and legacy of Yue culture. His poems are more than expressions of personal sentiments; they serve as vital carriers of Yue culture, playing a significant role in promoting cultural exchange and dissemination. This paper explores the intricate connections between Lu You, the Zhejiang East Canal, and Shaoxing. By examining Lu You’s life experiences and poetic creations, it highlights the profound impact of the canal and the city on his life and work. Additionally, it analyzes the changes in Lu You’s thoughts and emotions across different stages of his life, revealing the importance of his poetry in preserving and spreading Yue culture. The research indicates that Lu You’s life was inseparably linked to the Zhejiang East Canal and Shaoxing, and his poetry stands as both an expression of personal emotion and a crucial medium for the inheritance and promotion of regional culture.