When a melancholic writer is to release feelings, he must start with the style of writing; when the writer is pondering on diction, he must start with the main idea of the writing. (Liu Xie: The Literary Mind and the Carving of Dragons)

The chapter “Change Along with Times” discusses the prospering and decline of writing in different eras. The chapter “Ability and Sagacity” passes judgment, commendable or critical, on writers of all ages. The chapter “Understanding Writings” laments how difficult it is for writings to be understood and appreciated. The chapter “Assessing Writers’ Overall Qualities” stresses the importance of the virtue and aptitude of a writer. The chapter “Narrating Thoughts” expresses the author’s long-range concerns. This chapter encompasses and summarizes the themes discussed in all the others. (Liu Xie: The Literary Mind and the Carving of Dragons)