Step out of the classical: The evolution of Tang and Song Ci poetry and Song poetry

Author: Mu Zhai
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2002-08-01
Features: This is an academic monograph that studies the evolution of Tang-Song Ci poetry and Song Dynasty poetry, presenting original perspectives, rigorous arguments, a self-contained system, and strong persuasiveness. The author establishes a hierarchical system of Ci poetry, including sub-genres, sub-archetypes, and archetype construction, identifying Liu Yong, Su Shi, and Jiang Kui as the three major archetypes of Tang-Song Ci. He also cites Zhang Xian and others as pioneers of the "thin and hard" style, which served as a precursor to Su Shi's style. The author highlights Liu Yong's deconstruction of tradition, Su Shi's aesthetic life, and Jiang Kui's professional poet life, all of which hold significant meaning for Chinese culture. Additionally, he proposes landscape themes, regulated verse forms, and imagery as the primary markers for dividing the pre-classical, classical, and modern periods in poetic history. The author also argues for the distinctive characteristics of imagery in Su Shi's poetry and introduces a series of innovative viewpoints, such as the "five-period theory" of Song Dynasty poetry.