On the Style Theory of Wang Shizhen’s Ci

Style study is one of the most important topics in the studies of Ci. Wang Shizhen is the first one to recognize the subtle differences in style among Ci, poetry, and Qu. From the stylistic perspective, he makes a comparative analysis of their differences and similarities in terms of music, themes, main content and expression. According to him, being flowery and graceful is the basic feature of Ci as it is to express people’s emotions and keep close to life. And he regards Li Yu’s works as models of Ci when evaluated in a comprehensive way.