Bai Juyi was a prominent Chinese poet and government official during the Tang Dynasty, born in 772 AD. He is best known for his accessible and straightforward style of poetry, which often addressed social issues and human emotions. His works reflect the concerns of ordinary people and are celebrated for their clarity and depth. Throughout his life, Bai Juyi held various official positions, including governor of several provinces. He wrote over 3,000 poems, with notable pieces like "Song of Everlasting Regret" and "The Lute Song." His influence on Chinese literature remains significant, inspiring generations of poets and writers.