Lǐ Chán Rónghuì and Song Poetry Research

Author: Zhang Wenli
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-08-01
Features: This book approaches the topic from the perspective of cultural philosophy, examining the intermingling of Neo-Confucianism and Chan Buddhism in the Song Dynasty and its connection with Song Dynasty poetic theory and creative practices. The author highlights the core concept of "the fusion of principle and Chan," pointing out that this gave rise to new characteristics of Song Dynasty culture, primarily manifested in the theory of cultivating the mind and nurturing qi, the epistemology of investigating things to gain knowledge, the mindset of intuitive insight and introspection, and the aesthetic perspective of simplicity and tranquility. The author focuses on analyzing Song Dynasty poetic theory under the framework of the fusion of principle and Chan, particularly from the aspects of the Song people's view of poetic principles, the artistic thinking characteristics of poetry, the strengthening and emphasis on the content of poetry, and the poetic realm dominated by simplicity, maturity, and elegance. Based on this theoretical foundation, the author conducts case studies and research on Song Dynasty poetry. The author argues that the fusion of principle and Chan shaped the characteristics of Song Dynasty culture and had a broad and profound impact on both Song Dynasty poetic theory and creative practices.