Sword Spirit, Poetic Soul – Xin Qiji

Author: Jiang Daidong
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2002-10-01
Features: This is a biographical novel about the Southern Song Dynasty poet Xin Qiji. The work depicts his turbulent and heroic life journey from 1162, when he rebelled by destroying his family, to 1207, when he resigned in sorrow after his final dismissal from office. Through the portrayal of key events such as the gathering on Mount Tai, the execution of Yi Du, the capture of Zhang An'guo, the bloody battle in Chuzhou City, the founding of the Feihu Army, the reorganization of Longxing Prefecture, and the preparation for the defense of Zhenjiang, the novel highlights Xin Qiji's exceptional talents in military command and political leadership as a poet. Many of his renowned and widely beloved poems written during this period further demonstrate the heroic, tragic, and unrestrained artistic characteristics of his poetry, making Xin Qiji's image more complete, richer, and more vivid. Xin Qiji devoted his life to advocating resistance against the Jin forces and the reunification of China, engaging in fierce struggles against the peace-seeking and surrenderist factions. However, this also led to his being dismissed from office three times, which profoundly reveals the complex and ever-changing political landscape of the Southern Song Dynasty. It leaves behind much regret and reflection in history, giving the work a deeply moving and impactful force.