As humans, we carry energy in our bodies. The First Law of Thermodynamics, a fundamental principle in physics, states that energy can transform between various forms but remains constant in the universe; it cannot be created or destroyed. This energy within us permeates our actions, manifesting in diverse forms. Some spiritual traditions conceive of this energy as our souls or spirits, intangible aspects of ourselves that can be imparted to other entities outside our physical bodies.
Whether one views it through scientific or spiritual points of view, the truth remains immutable: when we engage in activities like calligraphy, we impart a part of ourselves onto it. As we dip a brush into black sumi ink and glide it across a pristine sheet of rice paper, we transfer something inherent from our beings onto it. Whether interpreted as our spirits, emotions, or feelings, these elements become permanently imprinted, reflecting our human condition for all to perceive.
We use the word BOKU NO KI to refer to the energy we transfer to the ink that gives vitality to a calligraphy work. Comprising the characters for “ink” (BOKU 墨) and “energy” (KI 氣), with “NO” denoting possession, “BOKU NO KI” signifies the manifestation of one’s internal energy within the ink. Our insights, emotions, and energies find expression through calligraphy, leaving an unforgettable mark on the paper.
Another term we use in Zen and martial arts is KIAI (気合). KIAI is the harmonization of your KI energy with physical action, often vocalized as a shout in martial arts practice. In calligraphy, “KIAI” finds resonance through “BOKU NO KI,” embodying the fusion of energy and artistic expression.
Omori Sogen and Terayama Katsujo elucidated the notion that “KIAI” can permeate the ink in their book “Zen and the Art of Calligraphy” (translated by John Stevens, RKP, 1983). Through microscopic examination of calligraphic works, they revealed how an artist’s energy influences the ink particles. Examples from renowned masters like Yamaoka Tesshu demonstrate how enlightenment can imbue calligraphy with vibrancy and vitality, reflecting the artist’s spiritual maturity.
A masterpiece in calligraphy transcends technical proficiency; it embodies both skill and spirit. Impeccable technique can sometimes yield aesthetically pleasing results devoid of emotional depth. On the other hand, calligraphy can have tremendous KIAI if the artist is spiritually mature but will write poorly and unbalanced if the technique is lacking. True impact stems from the infusion of “KIAI” – the artist’s essence – into the work. Thus, mastery entails harmonizing technical prowess with spiritual depth, enabling the creation of transcendent pieces.
In the practice of calligraphy, technique is essential, but it is the infusion of one’s heart and soul that breathes life into the strokes. Shodō becomes a manifestation of the mind on paper, capturing the artist’s essence in each stroke, for better or worse.