Exhibition Announcement | Emerald Whispers: A Poetic Unveiling of Ziqing's Aesthetics – Zhu Ziqing's Works Exhibition

As spring blossoms in March, the campus of Wenzhou-Kean University is enveloped in lush greenery, painting a poetic and vibrant scene. In this flourishing season, a distinctive book exhibition named Emerald Whispers: A Poetic Unveiling of Ziqing's Aesthetics is quietly unfolding.

Zhu Ziqing: A Master of Modern Chinese Literature

Zhu Ziqing (1898–1948), courtesy name Peixian, was a modern Chinese essayist, poet, and scholar. His fresh and unembellished writing style cemented his place in modern Chinese literature. His works, such as Back Shadow, Moonlight over the Lotus Pond, and Spring, have become literary classics with far-reaching influence.

In 1923, Zhu Ziqing was appointed to teach at Zhejiang Provincial No. 10 Middle School (the predecessor of today's Zhejiang Wenzhou High School). He resided in Wang’s residence on Siyingtang Alley, spending a brief yet impactful period in Wenzhou. During this time, he explored the city's scenic landscapes, immersing himself in the beauty of nature and integrating the local scenery and humanistic spirit into his writings. His renowned pieces, Green and The Moon Is Hazy, the Birds Are Hazy, and The Curtain Rolls Back to Reveal the Red of the Begonia, were created during this period. In Green, he poetically describes the emerald waters of the pond as "maiden green," endowing it with translucent and lively imagery, which has since shaped people’s earliest impressions of Wenzhou.

Now, in this vibrant spring season, this thematic book exhibition follows Zhu Ziqing’s footsteps in Wenzhou and presents his classic works as a heartfelt ode to nature and life.

✎ Exhibition Highlights

Exhibition Time: March 10, 2025 – April 20, 2025
Venue: Atrium, 3rd Floor, Student Learning and Activity Center
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM (Monday to Sunday)

This exhibition, through display panels, books, and audiovisual materials, comprehensively revisits Zhu Ziqing’s extraordinary life. The exhibition consists of four sections:

🌿 Embarking on a Lush Journey: Zhu Ziqing’s Life and His Connection with Wenzhou

This section introduces Zhu Ziqing’s life journey and his deep ties with Wenzhou through rare historical materials and vivid storytelling. Zhu Ziqing left behind "Four Ones" in Wenzhou: one school (Zhejiang Provincial No. 10 Middle School, Wenzhou High School now), one residence (Siyingtang Alley), one scenic spot (Meiyu Pond), and one friendship (with Ma Mengrong and Ma Gongyu). These elements together sketch his bond with Wenzhou, reflecting the city’s rich cultural and natural charm.

🌿The Ripples of Culture: Appreciating Classic Works

In this section, designed as a "river of literature," Zhu Ziqing’s classic works, Green, Spring, Moonlight over the Lotus Pond, and more, are displayed in full. Visitors can deeply engage with his delicate depictions of nature and heartfelt reflections on life. His books are available for browsing, offering insights into his evolving literary thoughts across different periods.

🌿 Echoes of Green Rhythm: Reviews from Literary Figures and Interactive Activities

This section gathers evaluations from renowned literary figures on Zhu Ziqing, both praises and critiques. Additionally, an interactive space is set up for readers to share their thoughts and reflections, fostering an engaging literary dialogue.

 🌿 Ziqing Impressions: Documentaries and Visual Exhibition

In this section, an in-depth documentary presents the ups and downs of Zhu Ziqing’s life. Rare photographs of him are also displayed, allowing visitors to experience his literary brilliance and noble character up close.

We invite all faculty and students to visit this thematic book exhibition. Whether you are a literature enthusiast or simply curious about Zhu Ziqing’s life and works, this is a rare literary journey for you.

Under the warm spring sunshine and amidst the lush greenery, let us explore Zhu Ziqing’s spiritual world together and feel his deep affection for nature and life. We look forward to seeing you at the exhibition and embarking on this poetic journey where literature and nature intertwine.