Ouyang Xiu (欧阳修)

Ouyang Xiu, famously known by his self-given art name "The Old Drunkard" (醉翁 - Zuiweng), was the undisputed intellectual leader of the Northern Song Dynasty. A towering statesman, historian, and essayist, he spearheaded the Classical Prose Movement, rescuing Chinese literature from the overly ornate and superficial styles of the past. He was also the legendary mentor who recognized and promoted other literary titans, including Su Shi (Su Dongpo) and Wang Anshi.

Despite his formidable political stature, Ouyang Xiu's poetry—especially his ci (lyric poetry)—reveals a surprisingly tender, humorous, and deeply romantic soul. He broke new ground by writing intimately about family life, the joy of drinking with friends, and the fleeting beauty of spring. His magnificent "Picking Mulberries" (采桑子) series, chronicling the serene landscapes of the West Lake in Yingzhou, perfectly captures his signature aesthetic: a relaxed, philosophical elegance that finds profound peace in the simple pleasures of nature and wine.