Basho and Shen Fu

Basho was an Eastern poet of the 17th century who redefined the art of haiku with such pieces as, “Come, see real / flowers / of this painful world.” While not as influential or artistic as Basho, Shen fu, with his prose, “Six Records of a Floating Life,” is quite powerful in his descriptions of the everyday life of a government clerk, painter, occasional trader, and a loving husband.
Though “Six Records” has been enjoyed by many since its writing in the 19th century, there is controversy as to its genre. Some call it an autobiography, others say it is a love story; instead I believe it does not matter, it is what it is, that is part of its greatness. Besides, “a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” To illustrate the prominence, not only does the elaborate detail of emotion...