Poetry can flourish, be observed, be grouped, and can be blamed. Does the "poem" mean the Book of Songs? Thanks to the scholars for their answers.

The phrase "Poetry can flourish, be observed, be grouped and be resentful" comes from Confucius' The Analects of Confucius Yang Huo. "Poetry" here does not refer to the Book of Songs, but refers to the literary form of poetry. This sentence means that poetry has four functions: it can inspire thinking, observe society, communicate with others and express grievances.

The Book of Songs is the earliest collection of poems in China, including 35 poems, so it is also called "Three Hundred Poems". The Book of Songs was regarded as a classic in ancient times and had a far-reaching influence on later literature. However, this does not mean that The Book of Songs is the only poetic work with the functions of "arousing, observing, gathering and complaining". In the history of China's poetry, many other poets' works also have these functions.