The Mind of Calligraphy That Must Be Prepared Before the Brush Moves
- Introduction: Calligraphy Is More Than Just Lines
- What Is “Izen Hitsugo”?
- Why “Izen Hitsugo” Is at the Core of Calligraphy
- How to Practice “Izen Hitsugo” Step by Step
- Tips for Beginners: Applying “Izen Hitsugo” in Practice
- The Eastern Philosophy Behind “Izen Hitsugo”
- Conclusion: The Writing Is Complete Before the Brush Moves
Introduction: Calligraphy Is More Than Just Lines
In daily life, we write characters without giving it much thought. But the moment we step into the world of calligraphy, that simple act transforms into an art form. Each line becomes a vessel for the calligrapher’s emotions, thoughts, and mental state.
At the heart of this transformation lies a core philosophy that appears frequently in classical calligraphy theory: “Izen Hitsugo(意前筆後)” — literally, “intention comes before the brush.”
It encapsulates the principle that the mind must be prepared before the brush begins to move.
This article explores how this mindset influences not only technique but the spirit, posture, and expression of calligraphy in a comprehensive and multifaceted way.
What Is “Izen Hitsugo”?
I (意): The Mental and Spiritual Preparation Before Writing
“I” refers not just to a fleeting thought, but to a full mental state: your intention, visualization, focus, and emotional readiness. Before touching the brush to paper, a calligrapher must visualize the character’s form, balance, the path of the strokes, and the overall composition.
Fude (筆): The Body Follows the Mind
The brush moves in response to “I.” A brush moved without intention produces only meaningless lines. It is a mere extension of the body — a tool that gives form to the commands of the heart and mind.
The Role of “Izen Hitsugo” in Calligraphy
This concept is foundational to classical calligraphy and the moral-educational approach to calligraphy practice. A famous saying by Liu Gongquan, a master of Chinese calligraphy, states:
“When the heart is correct, the brush is correct.”
This is the essence of “Izen Hitsugo.”
Why “Izen Hitsugo” Is at the Core of Calligraphy
Reason 1: Calligraphy Is a One-Shot Art
Unlike painting, calligraphy does not allow for do-overs. Once the brush touches paper, the “shape of the mind” at that moment becomes a permanent mark.
This is why thorough mental preparation before writing is absolutely essential.
Reason 2: Lines Reflect the Vibrations of the Spirit
A well-known beginner’s experience — “my hand shakes when I try to write” — reveals how strongly the mind affects the brush.
- A disturbed mind leads to shaky strokes.
- A distracted mind produces weak lines.
On the other hand, when the heart is calm and centered, the energy flows naturally into the brush, and the strokes are full of life.
Reason 3: Overcoming Unconscious Habits
With repeated practice, unconscious habits begin to show. Correcting them requires more than simply writing — each stroke must be imbued with intention.
Practicing “Izen Hitsugo” trains you to write consciously, cultivating the power to create from deliberate thought, not habit.
How to Practice “Izen Hitsugo” Step by Step
Step 1: Compose Before You Write
- Take 1–2 deep breaths before writing to calm your mind.
- Calligraphy is also an “art of breath.” A steady breath leads to a steady hand.
Step 2: Regulate Your Breathing
- 書く前に深呼吸を1～2回行い、心を沈める。
- 書は「呼吸の芸術」でもある。息が整えば、筆の流れも整う。
Step 3: Apply the Brush with Intention
- Know exactly how you want to draw each stroke before you begin.
- Enter with confidence, and write without hesitation or wavering.
Tips for Beginners: Applying “Izen Hitsugo” in Practice
| Challenge | Suggested Practice |
| Writing passively during practice | Before each character, pause to imagine the stroke you want to make. |
| Shaky hands during formal writing | Reduce anxiety by clearly visualizing the final form before starting. |
| Poor composition or spacing | Take time to mentally rehearse the layout before writing on paper. |
Especially for beginners, quality beats quantity. Rather than writing many characters aimlessly, focus on writing each one with clear intent.
This is the true way to internalize “Izen Hitsugo” — and the surest path to growth.
The Eastern Philosophy Behind “Izen Hitsugo”
“Izen Hitsugo” resonates deeply with Eastern thought, especially Zen Buddhism.
One Zen principle is “Furyū Monji” (不立文字), meaning “truth is not in words, but in direct experience.” Similarly, calligraphy transcends the written form — the line is merely the means by which the spirit expresses itself.
“Izen Hitsugo” is the embodiment of this unity between mind and body. It reflects the ideal that the spirit leads, and the body obeys — even the unconscious can be governed by intention.
Conclusion: The Writing Is Complete Before the Brush Moves
The phrase “Izen Hitsugo” reminds us that in calligraphy, the real work is done before the brush even touches the page.
Those who create beautiful calligraphy have already completed the work in their minds — long before their hand moves. That’s why their strokes are steady, powerful, and resonate with the viewer.
Starting today, try pausing for just a breath, just a moment of mental clarity, before you write.
That small habit will slowly manifest in your strokes — and one day, it will shape your personal calligraphy style.
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