Sanqu is a fixed-rhythm form of Classical Chinese poetry, also referred to as "literary song." It functions as a specific subtype of the qu formal type of poetry.
The poetic form originated possibly during the Jin dynasty (1115–1234). However, it is most notably associated with the Yuan (1271–1368), Ming (1648–1912), and Qing (1644–1912) dynasties. Sanqu is characterized by tonal patterns modeled on tunes derived from folk songs or other musical sources.