This term refers to verses original in theme, sincere in feeling, distinctive in image, and refreshing in diction. “Refreshing” stands opposed to ornate phrases and excessive literary quotations, and indicates both fresh and natural expressions as well as elegant style and subtle aesthetic conception. What “exquisite” indicates is not that the wording itself is resplendent, but that there is complete freedom from vulgarity, and that the imagery is sharp with real sentiments. As a poetic term, it refers to the general feature of a poem, including its linguistic style.

In writing poems, one should emulate past eminent poets. At the same time, he should not ignore contemporary talents either. Every refreshing, natural, distinct, and impressive work should be studied closely.

(Du Fu: Six Playful Quatrains)