Artist: Zhao Puchu
Date: Modern
Material: Ink on paper
Zhao Puchu adopted a philosophical attitude towards death and became even more optimistic and open-minded in his later years. Composed when he was ninety-three, these two poems reveal the author's sense of humour and forbearance. In the first, he states that he likes 'aged vinegar and fresh tea', and that the latter will bring him 'a burst of literary inspiration'. He also mentions that he once 'helped to save the nation', and expresses his determination to 'make my minute contributions, even though I am old'. The second poem focuses on his preference for bound books and offers this life insight: 'Do not sneer at me, an old egghead who has often been scolded in his life. When you reach my age, you will realize it's no joke.' This calligraphic work demonstrates Zhao's deft brushwork in his later years, showing no sign of decline, as well as his lively mood and good arrangement of space and characters.
