From the Classical to the Modern: Form Changes and Language Innovations in Modern Chinese Poetry

Abstract

The development of modern and contemporary Chinese poetry can be described as a comprehensive transformation from the classical to the modern, from form to content, and from language to poetic field. The form changes of modern poetry are a complex and rich process. The changes are not only reflected in the liberalization of forms and the innovation of language, but also in the expansion of themes and the innovation of forms. These changes have made modern poetry more contemporary and modern, and have also provided valuable inspiration and reference for later poetry creation. Additionally, there has been remarkable innovations in language, with update and expansion in vocabulary, flexibility and freedom in grammar, diversity and novelty in rhetorical devices, introduction of spoken language and dialects, as well as the musicality of language, all of which endow poetry with new vitality and artistic charm. Throughout this process, poets continue to experiment with new forms, and pursue language innovations, thus promoting the prosperity and development of poetry art. This paper aims to explore the form changes and language innovations in modern and contemporary Chinese poetry, and analyze the cultural, historical, and social backgrounds behind them.