Bei Dao is a prominent Chinese poet and essayist, born in 1949 in Beijing. He is known for his influential role in the Misty Poets movement, which emerged in the late 1970s as a response to the restrictions of Chinese literature during the Cultural Revolution. His work often explores themes of identity, exile, and the human condition. His poetry is characterized by its vivid imagery and emotional depth, often reflecting the complexities of life in China. Bei Dao's notable collections include "The August Sleepwalker" and "Forms of Distance." He has received numerous awards and has been an advocate for freedom of expression throughout his career.