Xú Zhì Mó (徐志摩)

**Xu Zhimo (1897–1931): The Romantic Poet of Modern China** **Early Life and Background** Born in Haining, Zhejiang province, Xu Zhimo came from a wealthy family and received a traditional Confucian education before studying abroad. He attended Peking University and later pursued further studies in the U.S. and England, where he fell in love with Western literature, particularly Romantic poetry. His time at Cambridge University deeply influenced his writing, inspiring his famous poem *"Saying Goodbye to Cambridge Again."* **Major Achievements and Contributions** Xu Zhimo was a leading figure in China’s New Culture Movement, advocating for vernacular Chinese in poetry. He co-founded the *Crescent Moon Society*, which promoted free verse and emotional expression. His lyrical, romantic style broke from classical conventions, making him a pioneer of modern Chinese poetry. Notable works include *"The Night of a Full Moon"* and *"By Chance."* **Historical Significance** Xu bridged Eastern and Western literary traditions, reshaping Chinese poetry with Western Romanticism and individualism. His works reflected the cultural upheaval of early 20th-century China, blending nostalgia for tradition with modernist experimentation. **Interesting Facts** Xu’s tumultuous love life was as dramatic as his poetry. He divorced his first wife, Zhang Youyi (a rare act at the time), to marry the socialite Lu Xiaoman, sparking scandal. Tragically, he died at 34 in a plane crash while traveling to a lecture. **Legacy and Influence** Xu’s romanticism and lyrical style left an indelible mark on Chinese literature. Today, he is celebrated as a symbol of artistic freedom and emotional depth. His poetry remains widely read, and Cambridge University erected a memorial in his honor, cementing his status as a cultural icon.