Chapter 101:
Su Lis poems exhibit a versatile style. Among them, the ones that delve into various life experiences and insights are particularly thought-provoking. Its hard to believe they all came from the same persons hand. Interestingly, every single one can be hailed as a masterpiece that withstands time. I must acknowledge that Su Li truly possesses a genius for poetry! Zhangsun Chong said with an air of sincerity.
After his statement, others began to ponder the situation. As they said, the speakers intentions might differ from the listeners interpretations.
Moreover, Zhangsun Chongs words deliberately set a trap for Su Li. Many of those present were already talented individuals with a certain reputation, deeply enthralled by the art of poetry.
Seeing Su Lis poems, they were instantly amazed. These days, they had been immersed in reading them, often applauding in admiration whenever they read them with enthusiasm.
No one in attendance even remotely doubted Su Lis authorship of these poems. After all, during this era, there were hardly any impostors seeking fame, especially among literati who valued their reputation. Deceiving others was a surefire way to tarnish ones reputation. People would avoid and shun him, and even matchmakers would stay away when his children sought marriage proposals.
No one with any standing would deign to converse with him, and anyone with even a semblance of identity would steer clear. This was a fate no one could endure, far more potent than the later generations credit systems.
Given this pressure, who would dare to forge such works? Furthermore, it was true that there were no substantial benefits to be reaped from copying poems in the Tang Dynasty.
Even during the prosperous era of the later Tang Dynasty, while remarkable poets abounded, none ever reached the pinnacle of life solely due to their exceptional poetry.
Even the legendary poet Li Bai, who sought officialdom throughout his life, maintained his charm and ease in the emperors presence but never secured a position that allowed him to realize his aspirations.
Du Fu, comparable to Li Bai, suffered even greater hardships.
What did this signify? Writing good poetry didnt guarantee wealth or officialdom. It held little practical value. The consequences of copying poems were dire. Effort and reward were not proportionate.
In such circumstances, who would waste time copying poems when there were more productive ways to study or establish connections with the nobility?
Su Li smiled and patted Changles arm before turning to Li Xueyan. Initially, it was just a leisure activity in my free time. Moreover, your intentions were good. How could I blame you?
Zhangsun Chong has already made his intentions clear by inviting you to the poetry gathering. He must have ulterior motives!
Su Li calmly responded, Even if he does, Im not worried. Let them say what they will. The truth will reveal itself in time.
The look of guilt on Li Xueyans face intensified. As a royal family member and a close confidante of Princess Changle, she understood Changles history better than most. It was expected that Zhangsun Chong would be hostile towards Su Li.
However, this time, Zhangsun Chongs approach was particularly malicious, and his intention seemed to tarnish Su Lis reputation entirely. Li Xueyan hesitated for a moment and then advised, Zhangsun Chong is coming aggressively. This is a setup. I suggest you lay low for a while.
Due to Queen Zhangsuns warning, Su Li hadnt produced any new poems recently. Li Xueyan, however, never doubted him. She had witnessed the entire process of Su Lis rise to fame. Who could better understand the ins and outs of this matter?
Su Lis recent lack of poetry output was easily understandable. Writing poetry wasnt like flipping a switch. It required inspiration.
Avoid his limelight? If I may be frank, Zhangsun Chong isnt worthy of that, Su Li said casually.
His words surprised both Changle and Li Xueyan. They didnt understand Su Lis decision. After all, if he wasnt willing, Zhangsun Chong couldnt forcefully drag him to the poetry gathering.
But Su Li had a different perspective. He hadnt intended to be like Yang Ming, copying poetry. In essence, he was just trying to make Changle happy. He hadnt copied much in the first place and still had plenty of poems in stock.
However, he wouldnt mind confronting certain people if someone wanted to implicate him. Su Li didnt believe there was another time traveler in the Tang Dynasty who would come forward to accuse him. If they couldnt produce evidence, then he wouldnt be polite about it. He would tell these people, Everyone here is garbage!
Su Li didnt feel that he owed these doubters anything. He was ready to defend his reputation if they wanted to challenge him.
