As the originator of Wild Cursive Style, and a nonconformist in spirit, Zhang Shui acted altogether against calligraphic convention, earning the nickname 'Crazy Zhang'. While intoxicated, he was inspired and would proceed to create his wonderful cursive calligraphy in front of the dignitaries. Tang Emperor Wenzong (r.809-840) regarded Zhang Shui's cursive script together with Lee Bai's poem and Pei Ming's sword playing as the 'three exquisite talents of the Tang Dynasty'.