Mount Lu revisited
Book Description
Discover how one of China's most celebrated literary masters navigated the profound spiritual tensions of his era in this illuminating scholarly exploration. Beata Grant unveils a hidden dimension of Su Shih's genius, revealing how Buddhist philosophy permeated the work of this eleventh-century poet and intellectual giant.
Through careful examination of Su Shih's extensive writings, Grant demonstrates how Buddhist language, imagery, and concepts shaped his creative expression in ways previously unrecognized by scholars. The book traces Su Shih's evolving relationship with Buddhist thought as he grappled with life's changing circumstances, offering readers insight into how spiritual seeking influenced his artistic development.
At the heart of this study lies a universal human struggle: the tension between worldly engagement and spiritual liberation. Su Shih's journey reflects the broader challenge of integrating Confucian social responsibility with Buddhism's promise of personal transcendence. His creative response to this dilemma offers timeless wisdom for anyone wrestling with similar questions about purpose, meaning, and spiritual growth.
Grant provides essential context about eleventh-century Chinese Buddhism, making this complex spiritual landscape accessible to modern readers. By examining how religious and literary cultures intersected during this pivotal period, the book illuminates not only Su Shih's personal transformation but also the broader spiritual currents that shaped medieval Chinese civilization.
This comprehensive work offers valuable perspectives for anyone interested in how great minds have approached the eternal questions of spiritual development and creative expression.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~7 hours)
🕉️ Tradition: Buddhism
📄 Length: 249 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Buddhist literature
- ✓ Explore Knowledge
- ✓ Explore LITERARY CRITICISM
- ✓ Explore General
- ✓ Explore Languages & Literatures
- ✓ Explore Knowledge and learning
- ✓ Understand Buddhist philosophy and practice
- ✓ Explore Su, shih, 1036-1101
