Poetry-loving Wen Jiabao appears more like a Confucian scholar than a stiff Communist Party cadre.
The premier left a lasting impression on NPC delegates on Friday with his first Government Work Report, which was delivered in a starkly different style to that of his predecessor, Zhu Rongji.
Mr Zhu is remembered for his sharp tongue, quick wit and legendary temper, but Mr Wen is known for being softly spoken and patient - but unwavering.
He often turns to classical poems to express his feelings, much in line with Confucian tradition.
Described yesterday by Xinhua as a junzi, a title used in ancient times to describe a virtuous man, Mr Wen has won praise from delegates for his moderate and elegant style.
'He looks more like a Confucian intellectual and he is more candid and close to the public,' Xinhua quoted a delegate as saying.
