| Guo Lin (1767 -1831), known as The Fourth Most Excellent Litterateur in the Zhegjiang School, was a master of cis (a variant of classical Chinese poems) between the Qianlong Period and the Jiaqing Period. Guo was excellent in theory and practice in terms of ci-creation. The following three points are the essence of his literary theory: (1) Place the emphasis on inspiration by true feelings when creating a ci; (2) Place the emphasis on flexible variations of style and all-inclusiveness when creating a ci; (3) Place the emphasis on refinement and readability, that is, use plain language when creating a ci. Guo' s literary works bear clear marks of influences by The Chengzhai Style, for the language is dynamic, charged with philosophical beauties. His works carry forward the good tradition of crystal-clear elegance characteristic of Jiang Kui and Zhang Yan by comparing himself to fragrant herbs and beauties. In terms of spiritualdisposition and ideals, Guo' s cis are both a reformation and innovation on cis created by the Zhengjiang School, which made him one of the most famous ci writers in the Zhengjiang School. All his cis are rhymed verses that can not only be sung as songs but also resemble paintings. They put emphases on Guo' s ambition and humanity, which makes his poem refreshing and... |
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