Xu Zhimo (January 15, 1897 – November 19, 1931) stands as a pivotal figure in modern Chinese poetry. Born in Xiashi, Zhejiang province, and tragically dying in a plane crash over Tai’an, Shandong province, his relatively short life left an indelible mark on Chinese literature. Xu Zhimo spearheaded a movement to liberate Chinese poetry from traditional constraints, embracing Western influences and the vernacular language.
Xu’s journey began with a pursuit of economics and political science. After graduating from Peking University, he traveled to the United States in 1918, earning an M.A. in political science from Columbia University in 1920. His time at the University of Cambridge in England proved transformative. There, he immersed himself in English Romantic poetry, sparking a passion that would redefine his career path.
Upon returning to China in 1922, Xu Zhimo embarked on his literary journey, crafting poems and essays in the vernacular style. A significant influence on his work was the Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore, for whom Xu served as interpreter during a lecture tour of China. His exposure to diverse literary landscapes shaped his poetic voice and solidified his role as a leader in the burgeoning modern Chinese poetry movement.
Xu Zhimo’s influence extended beyond his own writing. He served as an editor (1925-1926) of the influential literary supplement of the Chenbao (“Morning Post”) in Beijing. He also shared his literary expertise as a professor at various universities. In 1927, Xu co-founded the Xinyue Shudian (Crescent Moon Book Company), a significant step in promoting modern literary ideals. The following year, he took the helm of Xinyue (“Crescent Moon”), a literary monthly that showcased liberal thought and Western literature.
Xu Zhimo’s legacy includes four collections of verse that exemplify his innovative approach to poetry. Beyond his original works, he contributed significantly to cross-cultural understanding through translations of poetry from various languages. His commitment to exploring new forms and embracing vernacular language paved the way for generations of Chinese poets.
Xu Zhimo’s life, though tragically cut short, was a testament to his dedication to artistic innovation and the power of poetry. He successfully bridged Eastern and Western literary traditions, leaving behind a rich body of work that continues to resonate with readers today. His contributions to modern Chinese poetry remain invaluable, cementing his place as a pioneering figure in Chinese literature.