An Exploration of the Aesthetic Thought in Li He’s “God-Ghost Poetry”

Abstract

Chinese poetry internalizes Chinese aesthetics within its diverse forms and rich themes. Li He’s poetry frequently discusses “gods,”
“ghosts,” “death,” and “decay,” featuring a style that is both bizarre and poignantly beautiful. The imagery of “god and ghost” carries with it
the psychological needs of humanity to explore the unknown, as well as long-standing cultural traditions and religious beliefs. It is a complex
cultural label containing individual emotional sustentation and moral choice, with different levels of aesthetic value. Li He uses the imagery
of “gods and ghosts” as a medium for emotional expression, and in his tragic life circumstances, he achieves a unique spiritual transcendence
through the “gods and ghosts world” he creates. Starting from the tragic consciousness of life, one might be able to understand the connotation
and aesthetic charm of Li He himself and his “god-ghost poetry.”