Su Shi and the Spirit of Tea

October 18, 2024

Su Shi (苏轼) (1037—1101), also known as Su Dongpo (苏东坡), was a multi-talented poet, painter, calligrapher, and statesman of the Song Dynasty (1037–1101). He’s known for his zest for life despite hardships, and his works celebrate the joys of food, friendship, art, nature—and tea. Tea, to Su Shi, wasn’t just a beverage; it was part of an aesthetic lifestyle, bringing together simplicity, reflection, and pleasure. His attitude toward tea is playful, philosophical, and down-to-earth, much like his personality.

Tea as a Companion to Hardship

Su Shi faced numerous political exiles throughout his life, but even in adversity, he maintained a sense of humor and found joy in simple pleasures—tea being one of them. For him, tea was a comfort during exile, helping him connect with nature and reflect on life.

"In the mountains, with only tea and poems,
I laugh at the worries that cling to my heart."

During difficult times, tea was both a ritual of calm and a symbol of resilience, reminding him that life’s troubles are fleeting. Su Shi’s love for tea reflects his philosophy: even in hardship, find joy in the small things.

Tea and Friendship: Shared Moments of Joy

For Su Shi, tea wasn’t just a solitary experience but also a way to bond with friends. He often wrote about drinking tea in the company of close companions, celebrating these moments as among life’s finest pleasures. Tea gatherings were casual yet meaningful, with deep conversation and laughter flowing as easily as the tea itself.

"We sip our tea as the sun sinks low,
The world outside fades, but friendship grows."

His poetry shows that tea was more than just a drink; it was a way to connect with others in a way that was intimate but unpretentious.

Tea and Nature: Simplicity and Harmony

Su Shi had a deep love for nature, and tea was a part of his connection to the natural world. Whether he was brewing tea in a bamboo grove or sipping it beside a river, tea was always intertwined with his appreciation for scenery and quiet moments.

"A small pot of tea in the breeze,
Watching clouds shift across the sky."

In these simple, reflective moments, Su Shi’s enjoyment of tea became a way to align himself with the flow of nature, teaching him to live with ease and grace.

Su Shi’s Humor and Playfulness Around Tea

Su Shi wasn’t a rigid philosopher—he had a playful, witty side, which also showed up in his love of tea. He liked to poke fun at life’s seriousness and didn’t believe in taking rituals too rigidly.

"Tea? Wine? Both are fine—
As long as the heart is light!"

For Su Shi, enjoyment was the point of tea—there was no need to overthink it. His light-hearted attitude reflects the freedom and openness he embodied in his life and art.

Tea as a Symbol of Moderation and Balance

Unlike Li Bai, who glorified wine, Su Shi saw tea as a symbol of balance and moderation. He valued clarity of thought and calmness of spirit, and tea helped him achieve these states. In many ways, tea reflected his ideal way of living: not too indulgent, not too restrained, but always full of appreciation for life’s gifts.