Public Opinion Game in “Wutai Poem Case”

The “Wutai Poem Case” highlights the conflict between an opinion leader and public power discourse. Initially, public power had absolute control over public opinion, but innovations in publishing amplified Su Shi's influence, posing a threat to Emperor Song Shenzong's authority. Su Shi's works, based on “complain tactfully,” contained a “speaker trap” for audience interpretation. The Censorate’s Office exploited this, reinterpreting Su Shi's “satirical remonstrance” as “defamation.” Despite judicial rejection of this interpretation and some officials defending Su Shi, Emperor Song Shenzong used this public opinion opposition to gain discretionary power and reassert control over public discourse. This conflict had lasting negative impacts on Song Dynasty politics, setting the stage for more intense public opinion clashes. The “Wutai Poem Case” shows how publishing innovations shifted power in public discourse, challenging state dominance. It offers insights into the dynamics of political power and public opinion in the Song Dynasty, illustrating the interplay between literary expression, technological change, and political control. This case helps us understand the strategies of Song Dynasty rulers and the influence of literary figures like Su Shi in shaping public opinion and challenging state authority.