First of all, this poem was written in the twelfth year of Jian 'an (AD 207), and Cao Cao returned from his northern expedition to Wuhuan, passing through Jieshi Mountain. In this poem, Cao Cao expresses his feelings with scenery and objects, and skillfully blends the seascape in front of him with his own ambition. His artistic conception is broad and magnificent, which shows his manhood and heroic feelings.
Secondly, Cao Cao is the core figure of Jian 'an literature, and his poetry works represent the spirit and style of Jian 'an literature. Looking at the Sea shows the distinctive features of Jian 'an literature with its desolate and tragic poetic style and vigorous and tense language. At the same time, this poem also shows Cao Cao's mind and ambition, blends his political ideals with his concern for the country and the people, and reflects the tragic life of the people at that time.
Therefore, seeing the sea not only represents Cao Cao's personal literary achievements, but also represents the highest level of Jian 'an literature. It is regarded as the masterpiece of "Jian 'an style", which has been passed down through the ages and is deeply loved by people.