New Calligraphic Composition Methods. Central Hall, Square Frame, Horizontal Scroll

Author: Yang Zaichun
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-10-01
Features: Regarding the issue of calligraphic composition, I would like to share three more opinions:
First, Huang Xixian of the Song Dynasty wrote in On Learning Calligraphy: "In the form of a character, slow is inferior to quick, open is inferior to dense, slanted is inferior to upright, turbid is inferior to clear. The left should be heavy, and the right should be light. The brushwork of the ancients all followed this principle." A successful calligraphic work should adhere to this path. I have always believed that the foundation of a calligraphic piece is first to be pleasing to the eye, offering aesthetic enjoyment. "When calligraphy is deliberate, it becomes stagnant; when it is unrestrained, it becomes." I often see some calligraphic works that neglect brushwork and composition, acting purely on whim and desire, claiming to "express the heart and emotions." Zhang Jingxuan of the Tang Dynasty wrote in Collected Sayings, Part One: "When composing calligraphy, act according to the rules, yet follow one's desires. It is said that this expresses the heart and emotions. Three words are managed by two, and thus one line is managed; one line manages two lines, and two lines manage three lines—thus one manages the entire paper." This argument is very profound. Calligraphic composition is the relationship of mutual correspondence, echo, and coordination between characters, between lines. It cannot be done arbitrarily; only through repeated reflection and multi-angle consideration can the best result be achieved.
Second, Mr. Lin Sanzhi of the modern era wrote a poem: "Calligraphy originates from the root of wisdom, and one should seek deep understanding of the heart's desires. The heavens pour out a pool of water, and every drop becomes the trace of a leaking roof." Mr. Lin emphasized the "soul" and "every drop." Do we pay attention to these two aspects when creating calligraphy? Young friends often neglect to focus from a deep perspective and pay little attention to the details when writing. Wang Xizhi, the Sage of Calligraphy, wrote in After Wang Wei's Postscript: "Before writing, one must grind ink, concentrate the mind, and contemplate the size, posture, straightness, and movement of the characters, ensuring the veins and nerves are connected. The intention must precede the brush, and only then can one begin writing." The Sage of Calligraphy himself said, "The intention must precede the brush, and only then can one begin writing"—how much more so for us! The process of crafting calligraphic composition is arduous and solitary; it cannot be done on a whim. "When preparing to write, one should withdraw the eyes and ears, concentrate the spirit, and achieve inner peace. Only then can one grasp the essence." Sun Guoting's Book Spectrum further emphasizes the importance of the writing environment and mood in the "Five Contradictions and Five Harmonies."
Third, I would like to exchange thoughts on learning methods with my friends. Ouyang Xiu of the Song Dynasty wrote in Testing the Brush: "On odd days, study cursive script; on even days, study regular script. Combine regular script with running script, and running script with regular script. If one practices without fatigue for ten years, they will surely achieve recognition." I have benefited greatly from following this path. Over the decades of my calligraphic journey, I have taken a step from the realm of necessity to the realm of freedom. Our ancient calligraphers—Wang Xizhi, Yan Zhenqing, Huang Tingjian, Zhao Mengfu, Wen Zhengming, and Dong Qichang—all practiced various scripts while also having their own specialties. Therefore, I suggest that my friends might as well explore multiple scripts, read widely, observe diligently, and practice frequently. Then, based on their strengths, they can integrate the wisdom of the sages and finally express their individuality. It is not advisable to form one's own style too early; poor nourishment will prevent growth.