Executive Briefing: The Beat Poets of Ancient China
In 3rd-century Jin Dynasty China, a circle of poets, musicians, and philosophers (including Ji Kang and Ruan Ji) retreated to a bamboo grove to drink wine, play the guqin, and mock hypocritical court rituals.
1. Ji Kang and Guangling San
Sentenced to death for defying court corruption, Ji Kang calmly asked for his guqin in the execution grounds, performing the masterpiece *Guangling San* before laying down his head.
2. References
- Holzman, D. (1976). Poetry and Politics: The Life and Works of Juan Chi (A.D. 210-263). Cambridge University Press.