The difference between hard pen calligraphy and soft pen calligraphy

Hard-pen calligraphy and soft-pen calligraphy are two schools of calligraphy in China, and their differences lie in the tools and writing methods used. Hard pen calligraphy uses a hard nib, such as a pen, pencil or brush. Hard writing is required, and the stroke lines are clean and neat, which is suitable for writing neat regular script or running script. Because hard-pen calligraphy requires hard work, it is necessary to write with hard paper or cards to ensure the writing effect.

On the other hand, soft brush calligraphy uses brushes or soft pen tips, such as wool and moustaches. No force is needed when writing, and the stroke lines are soft and smooth, which is suitable for writing cursive or official scripts. Because soft pen calligraphy does not need to exert force, it can be written on soft paper or rice paper to show its unique charm and effect.

In contrast, hard-pen calligraphy pays more attention to norms and rules, and is suitable for writing neat regular script or running script. Soft-pen calligraphy pays more attention to freedom and individuality, and is suitable for writing cursive or official scripts. Of course, this does not mean that hard-pen calligraphy has no personality, or that soft-pen calligraphy is not standardized. In fact, these two kinds of calligraphy can have these characteristics, but they have different characteristics under different writing styles and needs.

In a word, hard pen calligraphy and soft pen calligraphy have their own characteristics, and different tools and papers can be selected according to the writing needs. Both hard-pen calligraphy and soft-pen calligraphy are very attractive and valuable arts. They inherit the essence and wisdom of China culture, and they are also skills that we should know and master as China people.