Jian 'an is the title of Emperor Xian of Han Dynasty. Jian 'an poetry was developed on the basis of Han Yuefu and ancient poems, with three Cao (Cao Cao, Cao Pi and Cao Zhi) and seven Jian 'an sons as its representatives. Jian 'an poetry is characterized by generous and sad feelings and vigorous and simple language, and is called "Jian 'an style".
After the establishment of the Eastern Jin Dynasty, the poetic world was occupied by metaphysical poems. Tao Yuanming once again inherited the simple style of Jian 'an poetry, changed metaphysical poetry into philosophical expression in daily life, lived a poor life and respected nature, and created a brand-new school of pastoral poetry.