.Mythmaker

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Du Fu is perhaps the first in the long line of important poets in Chinese history. It was not his calling - he always longed to be a sought after administrator, which was considered a high achievement for most of Chinese history. Apparently Mandarin is THE language to be writing poetry in due to the nature of the individual characters and the incredible complexity of layering and evocation they allow a poet to engage. Du Fu lived near the north western city of Chengdu for some years and there is a re-creation of his cottage in a large park/garden in that city. In this shot you can see a statue of Du Fu framed by the round doorway and the golden interior light that was in that pavilion. The shot also gives you a feel for the layout, gardens criss crossed with pathways and open covered walkways and dotted with un-doored pavilions containing statues and examples of his poetry.

Enjoy.

Mikel.