Qu (poetry)

Qu (poetry) is a genre of Classical Chinese poetry that developed from the ci poetry form during the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368). It is also sometimes translated as "songs," "arias," or "lyric verse."

Characteristics:

• Relationship to Ci: Qu builds upon the ci form, but generally allows for greater freedom in terms of structure, language, and the inclusion of colloquial expressions. While ci poetry often adhered to more rigid metrical patterns and sophisticated language, qu allowed for looser rhythms and a more accessible, vernacular style.

• Dramatic Connections: Qu is closely associated with Yuan drama (Zaju) and sanqu (散曲, "scattered tunes"). In Yuan drama, qu verses served as the arias sung by the characters. Sanqu refers to independent qu poems that were not part of a larger dramatic work.

• Form: Like ci, qu utilizes pre-determined melodic patterns (called qupai or ci pai) that dictate the length of lines, the placement of rhymes, and tonal patterns. However, the restrictions are often less stringent in qu than in ci. Common features include:

  • Fixed melodic patterns (qupai): Each qupai has a specific title and its own prescribed metrical and rhyming scheme.
  • "Padding words" (襯字, chenzi): These are extra syllables added to lines to fill out the melodic pattern and to add emphasis or colloquial flair. Chenzi are less common, or even absent, in ci poetry.

• Content: Qu poetry covers a wide range of topics, from love and nature to political satire and social commentary. The more relaxed style allowed poets to express emotions and ideas with greater immediacy and directness.

Types of Qu:

• Sanqu (散曲): Independent qu poems, written for personal expression or entertainment. Sanqu can be further divided into:

  • Xiaoling (小令): Short, self-contained poems.
  • Taoshu (套數): Longer suites of poems that share a common theme and often use the same rhyme scheme.

• Zaju (雜劇) Qu: The arias sung in Yuan Dynasty plays.

Significance:

Qu poetry represents a significant development in the history of Chinese literature. It demonstrated the adaptability of traditional poetic forms to changing social and cultural contexts. Its accessibility and vibrant language made it popular among a wider audience than some of the more elite forms of classical poetry. The close association of qu with Yuan drama helped to solidify its place in Chinese literary history, and qu remains a significant genre for the study of classical Chinese poetry and drama.