Chinese Journal of Literary Criticism

No.3, 2025

The Classical Meaning and Modern Expansion of Qi

(Abstract)

Tang Lingyun

Qi (extraordinary) is a deeply rooted and richly meaningful keyword in Chinese aesthetics, having undergone a long evolution from its classical form to its modern conceptualization, ultimately developing a relatively stable connotation. Its classical aesthetic significance primarily includes three aspects: the ideal of yi zheng yu qi (restraining the extraordinary with the orthodox), the aesthetic taste of yi chang chu qi (deriving the extraordinary from the ordinary), and the creative awareness of qi chu yu xin (the extraordinary originates from the heart). The theoretical expansion of the Chinese aesthetic concept of qi requires not only strengthening dialogue between Chinese and Western aesthetics and fostering crosscultural exchange but also preserving the unique characteristics of Chinese aesthetic thought. Additionally, contemporary aesthetic practice and emerging artistic trends should be taken into account. Through reflections on the history of aesthetics and integrative innovation, a deeper theoretical synthesis of qi can be achieved in the following ways: First, further advancing the shift in the meaning of qi from xinqi (novelty) to jingqi (astonishment). Second, recognizing qi as a means of reconstructing a poetic connection between humans and the world, offering a critique of scientific rationality and an alternative to purely utilitarian perspectives. Third, moving beyond the constraints of formalistcentered artistic theories to expand the conceptual boundaries of qi.