On Semantic Variety of Wang Wei’s Nature Poetry

Abstract

The article is focused on discussion of Wang Wei’s (ca. 701 — ca.761) “Written aft er the Rain at Wangchuan” poem in the aspect of the semantics of the landscape poetry of the Tang era (618–906). This poem refers to the number of recognized masterpieces of Wang Wei’s poetic heritage and the Tang literature as whole. It gives an impression of a rather modest narrative about an episode from the author’s life at his country estate. In fact it contains deep philosophic overtones. After a brief rural description the poet goes to the discourse on eternal themes: what the true meaning of life is, and explicitly chooses a path of spiritual self-perfection, for which he is willing to renounce any life blessings.