Katia N’s Reviews > Li Po and Tu Fu: Poems > Status Update
Katia N
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The well-known legend of Li Po death, in 762, is that he fell drunk from a boat while trying to grasp the reflection of the moon, and was drowned. It might even be true, particularly as death from pneumonia seems to have been described as ‘drowning’. It is indeed always difficult to separate fact and fiction about his life; a few further details of which will emerge in the remarks on his poems.
— Aug 16, 2026 11:43AM
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Pia G.
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Aug 17, 2026 01:41AM
Katia, that bit about pneumonia being described as drowning really struck me. Having experienced what it feels like not to get enough air, that comparison suddenly made an uncomfortable amount of sense to me. It makes the legend of Li Po’s death feel even more haunting somehow.
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Pia G. wrote: "Katia, that bit about pneumonia being described as drowning really struck me. Having experienced what it feels like not to get enough air, that comparison suddenly made an uncomfortable amount of s..."Thank you, Pia. I am sorry you've had such an experience. I hope it is well in past for you. As in any legend there is am element of truth in it. And this is case it is such a mixture of beauty, recklessness and truly tragic (either illness or drunkeness), that it made me want to share it. I am moved it stroke a chord with you. I wish you good health!