Hǎi Zǐ (海子)

**Hai Zi (1964–1989): The Tormented Poet of Modern China** **Early Life and Background** Born as Zha Haisheng in 1964 in rural Anhui province, Hai Zi grew up in poverty but showed exceptional academic talent. At just 15, he entered Peking University to study law—an extraordinary feat during China’s post-Cultural Revolution era. However, his true passion lay in poetry, and he soon abandoned legal studies to pursue literature. **Major Achievements and Contributions** Hai Zi became a leading figure in China’s "Third Generation" poets, blending classical Chinese imagery with modernist themes. In his short life, he wrote over 200 lyrical poems, including masterpieces like *"Facing the Sea, with Spring Blossoms"* (*《面朝大海，春暖花开》*). His work celebrated nature, solitude, and existential longing, resonating deeply with a generation disillusioned by rapid modernization. **Historical Significance** Hai Zi’s poetry captured the spiritual turbulence of 1980s China, bridging traditional pastoral ideals and contemporary angst. His tragic suicide by train in 1989, at age 25, turned him into a cultural martyr, symbolizing the struggles of artistic souls in a changing society. **Interesting Facts** - He adopted the pen name "Hai Zi" (meaning "child of the sea") as a nod to his love for nature. - Despite his fame, he lived in near-destitution, often trading poems for meals. - He was obsessed with Tibetan culture and once traveled alone to Qinghai, seeking spiritual inspiration. **Legacy and Influence** Hai Zi’s work remains iconic, taught in schools and revered by later poets like Xi Chuan. His life and death continue to inspire discussions about mental health and artistic sacrifice in China. Today, his verses are quoted widely, a testament to his enduring voice in modern Chinese literature.