In 1311, the Yuan dynasty in China continued to expand the use of paper money, which had been introduced earlier in the 11th century. This innovation took place primarily in cities like Dadu (modern-day Beijing) and facilitated trade and economic growth across the empire. The use of paper currency represented a significant shift in economic practices, influencing commerce and the socio-political landscape of the time.

The introduction of paper money inspired poets to explore themes of wealth, value, and the transient nature of material possessions. Poets like Li Bai and Du Fu, who lived earlier, laid the groundwork for later reflections on economic themes in poetry, influencing how poets articulated social commentary and personal experience in relation to wealth and poverty.