Quote by Li Bai: “Life is but a dream, and joy a fleeting moment.”

This quote expresses a philosophical view on the transient nature of existence and happiness. It suggests that life itself is ephemeral, and moments of joy are particularly brief, encouraging reflection on the impermanence of all things.

Li Bai's later years were marked by political instability and personal hardship, including exile. This period deepened his understanding of life's fleeting nature, leading to poetry reflecting on transience and the dream-like quality of existence.

Tang dynasty Chinese poet, considered one of the two greatest poets in classical Chinese literature alongside Du Fu. Known for his romanticism, his celebration of wine and nature, and his Taoist-inflected celebrations of freedom and wandering, he was a court poet under Emperor Xuanzong before falling from favor. His poems have been translated into more languages than those of any other Chinese author.