Drinking Alone Beneath the Moon

What is the main conflict in Drinking Alone Beneath the Moon by Li Bai?

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This poem presents a typical example of Li Po's poetic stance: cool detachment from the world around him, yet keenly observant of the slightest details. It is an attitude that displays elements of Taoism and Zen Buddhism, which are both traditional spiritual practices of China. Also evident in this poem is Li Po's legendary love of wine, which was a great creative inspiration to him, as well as to many of the poets of the time. As can be seen in "Drinking Alone Beneath the Moon," Li Po found freedom from the common world in drinking, similar to the release from self that comes from meditation.