In 1368, the invention of the water-powered hammer in China marked a significant advancement in technology. This device, primarily used in metallurgy, allowed for the efficient forging of iron and other metals. The innovation not only improved production capabilities but also contributed to the economic growth of the region, particularly in areas like Jiangsu, where metalworking was prevalent.

The technological advancements of the time, including the water-powered hammer, influenced poets such as Li Bai, who often celebrated human ingenuity and the beauty of craftsmanship in his verses. The themes of progress and innovation became more prominent in poetry, reflecting the changing landscape of society and industry.