Wubei Shi Hua (Selected Works on Chinese Classical Literary Theory and Criticism) (Selected Works on Chinese Classical Literary Theory and Criticism)

Author: Zhao Yi
Publisher:
Publish Date: 1963-02-01
Features: When I first read the works of various scholars from the Tang and Song dynasties, I was not able to finish a single volume before my thoughts surged and I could no longer calm my mind. Upon delving deeper, I realized that their true talents and artistic realms were merely like those of worldly selectors, who only grasped the general idea. In my later years, with nothing else to do, I repeatedly studied the complete works of various scholars and finally understood their genuine talents and true artistic states. I felt that what I had seen before was only about one-tenth of what there was. Thus, I secretly felt ashamed and regretted that if I had pursued this path earlier decades ago, I could have recognized the unique insights of each scholar and engaged with them on equal footing. Those with higher talents could expand my own abilities, and those with deeper achievements could advance my own. I believed that through mutual refinement and integration, I could eventually forge my own style. Alas, by the time I reached old age, my energy had waned, and I could no longer compete with the ancients. However, since I engaged in this pursuit in my old age, even though I could not match them, I was still able to see, which was better than those who never had the chance to glimpse the inner workings.
Reflecting on this, I thought that there are countless talented individuals in the world, and they may also be as dismissive of their talents as I once was, only realizing it later in life. What if my late-life insights could be shared with them early on, saving them from decades of overlooking what was right before their eyes? While this may not benefit me personally, it would greatly benefit these talented individuals. Therefore, I have briefly highlighted my observations and shared them with fellow enthusiasts.