Liu Xie's Wen Xin Diao Long discusses Jian 'an literature from many angles. He thinks:
When reading and writing, it is elegant and generous, good things are scattered in the world, the wind is light and vulgar, and the ambition is deep and the pen is long, so the outline is rich and full of vitality. ("Time Series") Generosity creates gas, integrity creates talents, does things, and does not strive for perfection; Word by word, but with the power of clarity ("Ming Poetry")
He divided Sancao Yuefu into two categories: one is "describing a hearty feast" and the other is "holding it in pain" (Yuefu). Ye China's literati "share their romantic feelings, swim in the pool garden, express gratitude and honor, and talk about a hearty feast" (Poems in the Ming Dynasty), and "proudly sit at the table, write a hearty song and chat with ink" (Chronology). Liu Xie's exposition of Jian 'an literature is worth noting in three aspects: first, he can explore the causes of Jian 'an literature in the context of the late Han Dynasty and has a lofty understanding; Secondly, he made an unprecedented high evaluation of Jian 'an poets, most of which were more pertinent; Thirdly, he discussed the "style" of poetry for the first time, which created conditions for future generations to put forward "Jian 'an style". At the same time, we also need to realize that he has a strong idea of Confucian classics. He said:
As for the three ancestors of Wei, they are gorgeous, arrogant and flat. Looking at his "Going North" and countless quotations, his "Autumn Wind" is all listed in the article, or talking about it or hurting feelings. His ambition is not based on lewdness, and his words are inseparable from sadness. Although all three tones are correct, it is the Qu Zheng of Shao Hexia (Yuefu).
It goes without saying that Cao Cao's works reflecting the war and Cao Pi's poems describing vagrant women are all denounced as "Qu Zheng", and critics stand on the position of feudal orthodox poetry teaching.