Zhao Ke’s cipoems presented two prominent distinctions: overflowing with the pride of a prosperous reign by depicting the scenery of northern China, and abounded with graceful interest, especially clean grace. With these two distinctions, Zhao’s cipoems showed the primary characteristics of the poetic world in the reign of Wanyanliang, king of Hailing in the Jin Dynasty, and in the period of peaceful rule of Emperor of Shizong. Zhao Ke grew up and became initially established in the reign of the king of Hailing and lived till the late days of the imperial title of Dading and the early days of Ming Dynasty. As a result, there were transitions and changes between two historical periods and two different poetic styles in mood, taste, tone and style in Zhao’s cipoems, hence a token of change in poetic style from early period to middle period.

Zhao Ke’s cipoetry; the poetic world of the Jin Dynasty; change in poetic style; literary token