Chinese poetry is a rich literary tradition that dates back thousands of years, with its origins in ancient texts like the Shijing or "Book of Songs." It encompasses various forms, including shi, ci, and qu, each with unique structures and themes. Chinese poetry often emphasizes nature, emotions, and philosophical ideas, reflecting the culture's deep connection to the world around them. The language of Chinese poetry is characterized by its use of characters, which convey meaning through both sound and visual representation. Poets often employ techniques such as parallelism and imagery to create vivid pictures and evoke feelings. Notable poets like Li Bai and Du Fu have left a lasting impact on the genre, influencing generations of writers.