Hu Tao: The Poetic Director of Wangsheng Funeral Parlor

Hu Tao, the current director of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, is a character who defies easy categorization. She's known for her playful demeanor, her love for pranks, and a philosophical outlook on life and death that is both profound and unconventional. This seemingly contradictory nature—a purveyor of final rites with a zest for life—is precisely what fuels her poetic expression. She approaches her solemn duties with a unique levity, transforming what might be morbid into something reflective and even beautiful. Her poetry isn't found in neatly bound volumes or grand public readings; instead, it is woven into the very fabric of her dialogue and interactions. It manifests in her witty wordplay, her evocative descriptions, and the playful banter that often leaves those around her bemused. It's a spontaneous, organic form of art, reflecting her belief that poetry can exist outside formal settings, residing in the everyday and the unexpected.

The central themes of Hu Tao's poetic leanings revolve, understandably, around life and death. However, her perspective deviates significantly from traditional elegies that often dwell on sorrow and loss. Instead, Hu Tao consistently frames death not as an end to be feared, but as a natural, inevitable part of life's grand cycle. She finds humor, beauty, and even a sense of reunion in its inevitability, encouraging both the living and the departed to embrace the journey. For instance, she might describe the afterlife not as a desolate void, but as a "grand journey" or a "festive reunion," using metaphors and vivid imagery to transform the profound and sometimes uncomfortable reality of death into something engaging and even comforting. This ability to reframe the mundane and the morbid into memorable narratives is a testament to her unique poetic skill.

Perhaps one of the most fascinating aspects of Hu Tao's poetic identity lies hidden within her very being: her constellations. In the Chinese version of Genshin Impact, the names of Hu Tao's constellations, when strung together, form a verse in an ancient Chinese poetic style known as Yuefu. Yuefu poems are characteristically lyrical and folk-song like, and the words from Hu Tao's constellations, when loosely translated, embody this style perfectly. This intricate detail, often lost in English translation, reveals a deeper layer to her character, showcasing miHoYo's commitment to cultural references and literary depth within the game. It highlights how seamlessly poetry is integrated into her existence, not just as an external expression, but as an internal, foundational element of her design. This subtle poetic architecture underscores her role as a unique figure who walks the line between life and death, carrying the weight of tradition while dancing to her own rhythm.

Beyond her innate inclination, Hu Tao also shares a delightful connection with another literary figure in Liyue: Xingqiu. Their adorable friendship is, in part, based on their mutual love for poetry. While Xingqiu is a renowned author and bookworm, their shared passion for verse provides a charming dynamic, suggesting that even in the bustling and pragmatic world of Liyue, art and creativity find fertile ground. This camaraderie further solidifies Hu Tao's identity as a poetic soul, finding kindred spirits in those who appreciate the beauty of language.

While Hu Tao may not be recognized as a formally published poet within the game's lore, her impact on the narrative and the player's perception of her is undeniable. Her use of language, her imaginative descriptions, and her fresh perspective on life and death elevate her beyond a mere funeral parlor director. She demonstrates that poetry is not confined to academic settings or traditional forms; it can reside in the daily interactions, the playful banter, and the unique worldview of even the most unconventional characters. Her presence serves as a reminder that artistic expression is ubiquitous, found in the most unexpected corners of life. The Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, with its profound responsibility for guiding souls, becomes a stage for Hu Tao's unique artistry. She embraces her duties with a blend of solemnity and an almost childlike wonder, reflecting her profound understanding of the cyclical nature of existence. Her "poems" are not merely words; they are philosophies, comforting perspectives, and a celebration of life, even in the face of its inevitable conclusion. In a world where the serious business of death could easily overshadow individual expression, Hu Tao, the 77th Director of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, stands as a beacon of unconventional wisdom and poetic grace. She teaches us that even the most somber of professions can be imbued with artistic flair, and that the profoundest truths can be conveyed through the most whimsical of verses. Her subtle yet impactful poetic talent truly makes her the famous, albeit unofficial, poet of the Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, leaving a lasting impression on those who encounter her unique brand of wisdom. Beyond the playful surface, Hu Tao's poetry delves into surprisingly deep philosophical territory. Her constant musings on the transition between life and death resonate with ancient philosophical traditions that ponder the nature of existence and the afterlife. She champions the idea of living life to the fullest, precisely because it is fleeting. This isn't a morbid obsession with mortality, but rather a profound appreciation for the present moment, driven by the understanding that all things eventually return to the earth. It's a sentiment that echoes the wisdom often found in classical poetry, which seeks to find meaning in the human condition. Her perspective, while eccentric, offers a comforting and ultimately optimistic view on a topic often shrouded in dread. Imagine strolling through Liyue Harbor on a breezy afternoon. You might stumble upon Hu Tao, perched on a rooftop, humming a peculiar tune. She might then declare, with a mischievous twinkle in her eye, "Wham bam, I'd like to thank my fam!" Or perhaps, during a game of cards, she'd rhyme, "Down on the ground the dice spin around, while high in the sky the sun shines bright!" These aren't just random utterances; they are glimpses into her spontaneous poetic process, where everyday observations are transformed into whimsical verses. It's as if her mind is a constantly churning mill of rhymes and metaphors, ready to burst forth at any given moment. This improvisational approach to poetry makes her truly unique and approachable, demystifying the art form and bringing it into the realm of ordinary life. In recent times, the Genshin Impact community continues to uncover and appreciate the subtle nuances of Hu Tao's poetic inclinations. For instance, discussions around the Lantern Rite festival in 2025 often highlighted how a poem composed by Hu Tao during the event was, in fact, her constellations from C1-C6 in Chinese. This revelation further deepened the understanding of how integral poetry is to her character, even correlating her constellation names with important steps in traditional Chinese funeral services. This continuous discovery by players reflects the enduring depth of her character design and the rich cultural tapestry woven into her being. Her poetic spirit is not static; it reveals itself in new and exciting ways, inviting deeper exploration and appreciation from her audience. In an era where SEO and content generation often prioritize keyword density and formulaic structures, Hu Tao's "poetry" offers a refreshing counterpoint. Her verses are not crafted for algorithms but for expression, for conveying a unique philosophy through unconventional means. This embodies a critical aspect of effective communication: authenticity. Just as a truly compelling article goes beyond mere facts to offer unique insights and a personal touch, Hu Tao's poetry goes beyond simple rhyming to convey a worldview. Her "poems" are relatable, infused with her personality, and ultimately more memorable than any rigid, academic prose. This serves as a powerful reminder that the most impactful messages are often those delivered with creativity, personality, and a genuine connection to the subject matter. The Wangsheng Funeral Parlor, and by extension, Hu Tao's role, carries immense cultural significance in Liyue. Funerary rites are not just about mourning; they are about honoring the deceased, ensuring their peaceful passage, and maintaining balance between the living and the dead. Hu Tao, through her poetic lens, reinforces this balance. Her playful yet profound approach helps the living come to terms with loss, transforming grief into acceptance. This resonates with real-world cultural practices where art, music, and poetry often play a crucial role in rites of passage, providing solace and meaning during times of transition. Her poetry, therefore, serves a vital social and psychological function within the fictional world of Teyvat, demonstrating the power of art to heal and guide. While Hu Tao may not have a historical treatise on Liyue poetry attributed to her, her influence is arguably more profound. She has made poetry accessible and relatable, demonstrating that it doesn't need to be formal or intimidating. Her impact is not measured in published works but in the subtle shift she brings to perceptions of life and death, infused with her unique brand of verse. In the years to come, as new generations encounter the tales of Liyue, Hu Tao's eccentric charm and her surprising poetic talent will undoubtedly continue to captivate, ensuring that the "famous poet of Wangsheng Funeral Parlor" remains a beloved and influential figure. Her legacy lies not in written scrolls, but in the hearts and minds of those who appreciate the unexpected beauty she brings to the world.