We study the names of the jian (Chinese double edge sword) techniques in great depth. The jian is the ‘magical’ sword in Chinese culture (a bit like King Arthur’s Excalibur) and the names carry the mythology and cultural stories that go along with it, and most importantly, tell us the ‘spirit’ and mindset that the techniques are done with.

They are poetic, they include real and mythological creatures, they are shamanistic as we take on the spirits of various types of dragons, gods, swallows, cats, wasps, phoenix, wild horses, lions, tigers, rhinos, apes, celestial beings and observe and copy everyday actions.

This gives an understanding of Chinese culture, its various layers, their regard for the sword, how it relates to calligraphy and the calligrapher’s brush. How the sword has to take on a life of its own and how we follow and support its actions with both our body and spirit.

Never underestimate how deep these skills go. You can clearly see the difference in those that understand these depths and those that don’t. It’s like the difference between art and bestiality, the difference between effectiveness and clumsiness.

The jian belongs with the upper echelons of society, with royalty, officers, scribes, scholars calligraphers and those with dignity and an appreciation of art, poetry and culture. It is the yin to the dao’s (broadsword’s) yang.