I started learning semi-cursive script (行書, or xingshu) back in March of 2024, just over one year into my Chinese calligraphy learning journey. To learn, I’m copying the world-famous piece 蘭亭序 (Orchid Pavilion Preface) by 王羲之 （Wang Xizhi) who’s often considered the greatest calligrapher in Chinese history especially for his semicursive script.
My teacher was actually very reluctant for me to start learning semi-cursive because I’ve only been practicing regular script (楷書, or kaishu) for 1 year. I think he’d ideally had me stay with practicing regular script for 3 years before advancing to semi-cursive script, especially as a “Western-born” person who doesn’t have an extensive upbringing writing Chinese.
Semi-cursive script was my goal in learning calligraphy all along. This flowing script has been way more fun to write, and I’m grateful that my teacher is willing to play along.
