袁枚

Yuan Mei (1716–1797) was a prominent Chinese poet, scholar, and literary critic of the Qing dynasty. Born in Qiantang (modern Hangzhou), he passed the imperial examinations at a young age and served as a magistrate before retiring to his famous garden, Suiyuan, in Nanjing, where he devoted himself to writing and teaching. His poetry, noted for its clarity, wit, and emotional directness, challenged the prevailing orthodox styles that emphasized moral didacticism. His major prose work, Suiyuan Shihua (Random Notes on Poetry), is a collection of critical essays and anecdotes that championed the 'native sensibility' (xingling) in poetry, arguing that true poetic expression arises from personal feeling and natural talent rather than imitation of ancient masters. Yuan Mei also wrote essays, short stories, and cookbooks, and his literary salon attracted many disciples, including women poets, which was unusual for his time. His legacy endures as a leading voice for artistic freedom and individuality in Chinese letters.