Ancient Chinese literature encompasses a rich body of work that dates back thousands of years, reflecting the culture, philosophy, and history of China. Key texts include the Tao Te Ching, attributed to Laozi, which explores themes of harmony and balance, and the Analects of Confucius, which emphasizes moral values and social relationships. Poetry also played a significant role, with collections like the Book of Songs showcasing early Chinese verse. The Zhuangzi, a foundational text of Daoism, uses allegory and parable to convey its ideas. Together, these works form the foundation of Chinese literary tradition and thought.