Abstract: This paper investigates zhiyan ("the goblet words"), which is the most important of the three kinds of words Zhuangzi used. In Zhuangzi, yan ("words") refers to the speeches peoples make, or texts the scholars write, and also concepts hidden in peoples' behavior. Therefore, zhiyan is not only a special way of speaking or writing, but also suggests a special style of living, and it depends on the deconstruction of the self. Zhiyan is closely related to Zhuangzi's essential theories such as the equalities between all speeches and the transformation of things. Based on the consciousness of language that zhiyan implies, Zhuangzi creates some distinctive literary forms to express his thoughts.

Key words: Zhuangzi, zhiyan, the Transformation of Things