Qiu Wei (丘为, ca. 694–789) was a distinguished poet of the High Tang Dynasty and a prominent figure in the "Mountain and River" (Shan Shui) school of poetry. A close contemporary and friend of Wang Wei, he was celebrated not only for his literary talent but also for his extraordinary longevity, reportedly living to nearly a hundred years while maintaining a life of scholarly grace and integrity.
His poetry is characterized by a refined simplicity and a profound sense of tranquility. He is best remembered for his masterpiece, "Seeking a Recluse on the West Mountain and Not Finding Him" (寻西山隐者不遇), which is hailed as one of the finest examples of the "missing the hermit" subgenre. His verses often capture the ethereal beauty of solitude, using clear, rhythmic language to evoke the silent movements of the natural world and the quietude of a spiritual life.
At CN-Poetry, we honor the legacy of Qiu Wei through delicate English translations that strive to preserve the atmospheric "Vibe" of his landscape observations. Explore the peaceful and timeless spirit of one of the High Tang masters through our curated digital archives, and discover why his voice remains a sanctuary for lovers of classical Chinese verse.
