Liu Zhen, courtesy name Xuanzhi, was from Pei State. His father, Liu Xian, served as the Prefect of Xunyang during the Liang Dynasty. When Liu Zhen was eighteen years old, he passed the imperial examination and became the East Pavilion Scholar for the Prince of Shaoling. Later, during the reign of Emperor Yuan, Liu Zhen was promoted to be a Gentleman of the Central Secretariat. After Jiangling was captured, he sought refuge with Xiao Cha and became the Deputy Director of the Central Secretariat, where he drafted many important military intelligence reports and orders. He later became a Scholar of the Gate, was appointed as the Grand Commander, and was granted the title of Count of Raoyang. He also served as the Magistrate of Lantian County and the Lower Minister of the Imperial Clan. After the founding emperor of the Sui Dynasty, Yang Jian, declared himself emperor, Liu Zhen was promoted to the position of General of the Right Household. When Left Chief Councillor Gao Ke led troops to attack the Chen Dynasty, Liu Zhen accompanied him and was responsible for the documentation, and was also granted the title of Count.
The Crown Prince Yang Yong was very fond of him, treating him as a close confidant. However, Liu Zhen lacked political acumen and was somewhat absent-minded, especially engrossed in studying the classics, histories, and literary collections, often forgetting many worldly matters. There was another person named Liu Ne who also held the position of General of the Right Household and was a scholar for the Crown Prince, and the two had a particularly good relationship. Liu Zhen lived in the south of the city, while Liu Ne lived in the east. One time, when Liu Zhen wanted to visit Liu Ne, he asked his servant, "Do you know where Liu Ne's house is?" The servant, unaware that Liu Zhen was looking for Liu Ne, thought Liu Zhen meant his own house and replied, "Yes." So he led Liu Zhen there. When they arrived at the door, Liu Zhen still hadn't realized his mistake and thought they had reached Liu Ne's house, so he loudly called out, "Liu Ne, come out!" Liu Ne's son opened the door, surprising Liu Zhen, who asked, "Why are you here too?" Liu Ne's son replied, "This is my house." Only after looking around for a while did Liu Zhen finally realize and scolded the servant, saying, "You really are foolish; I was looking for Liu Ne!"
He is quite laid-back; for example, he's really into clams, but the word for clams sounds just like his father's name, so he calls them "flat snail." He has plenty of quirks like this. Liu Zhen was well-versed in the "Book of Han," and people at that time called him "Han Sheng." He passed away at seventy-two in the eighteenth year of the Kaihuang era. He left a ten-volume collection of writings that have stood the test of time.
Wang Kui, styled Jingwen, was the younger brother of Wang Ban, the governor of Qizhou. As a kid, he was in Jiangling when the city fell, and he followed his brothers to escape to Guanzhong. He enjoyed hanging out with heroes and adventurers, but by twenty, he still struggled to recognize a few characters. His brother Wang Yong was furious and gave him a serious talking-to. This pushed Wang Kui to hit the books seriously, reading the "Classic of Filial Piety" and the "Analects of Confucius," losing track of time. Later, he also read the "Zuo Zhuan," "Book of Rites," "Book of Changes," "Book of Songs," and "Book of Documents," and eventually exclaimed, "There’s no book you can’t read!"
After studying hard for years, he mastered the Five Classics and really grasped their essence, gaining respect from many Confucian scholars. He was proficient in writing essays and skilled in debate. At twenty-two, Emperor Wu of Zhou brought him on as a court scholar. When the emperor faced tough calls, he often turned to Wang Kui for advice. Wang Kui was sharp-minded and full of energy, loved collecting odd stories, and people back then said he was quite the brainiac. He also understood military strategy and always wanted to display his talents, often lamenting that he was born in the wrong era, always seeing himself as a future general.
In the fifth year of the Kaihuang era, he was appointed as an editorial assistant. Soon after, he was transferred to the Imperial Academy to teach. Once, Emperor Gaozu personally attended a sacrificial ceremony, and the head of the Imperial Academy, Yuan Shan, was explaining the "Classic of Filial Piety." Wang Ke engaged in a fierce debate, often outsmarting Yuan Shan. Emperor Gaozu greatly admired him and promoted him to the position of Doctor of the Imperial Academy, despite the usual regulations. Later, he was dismissed due to an error and exiled to Lingnan. Several years later, he was appointed as a military adviser to Prince Liang of Han, who respected him. At that time, Prince Liang of Han began to entertain rebellious thoughts as he saw the Princes of Fangling, Qin, and Shu successively being deposed. Wang Ke secretly persuaded Prince Liang of Han to quickly prepare for rebellion.
After Emperor Gaozu's death, Prince Liang of Han indeed rebelled, drawing on many of Wang Ke's strategies. Later, Wang Ke presented many ingenious strategies, but Prince Liang of Han rejected them. Yang Su led his army to Haoze, preparing to battle with Prince Liang of Han. Wang Ke said to his son, "The weather is terrible; we're bound to lose this battle. Come with me!" As predicted, they lost. Wang Ke tried to escape to the Turks, but halfway there, the mountain pass was blocked. Knowing he couldn't escape, he said to his son, "My strategies are just as good as Yang Su's; it's just that my advice wa
Cui Ran, styled Qishu, was from Wucheng County in Qinghe Commandery. His grandfather, Cui Xiu, served as the Governor of Qingzhou during the Northern Wei dynasty; his father, Cui Zhongwen, was the Prefect of Gaoyang during the Northern Qi dynasty. Their family had been a renowned family for generations. At the age of sixteen, the prefect wanted him to take a position as a magistrate, but he did not agree. When he was young, he had a good relationship with Lu Sidao from Fanyang and Xin Deyuan from Longxi, who were like-minded friends. He devoted himself to studying every day, was very confident, and held a slight disdain for others. He even hung a sign at his door that said: "No one who has not read five thousand volumes is allowed to enter this house!" Over the years, he read many books and had a very broad knowledge.
He excelled in writing and passed the imperial examination and became a xiucai during the Northern Qi dynasty. He was appointed as an Assistant Cavalry Attendant and later promoted to Palace Assistant Secretary. He then participated in the revision of the "Five Rites" alongside Xiong Ansheng, Ma Jingde, and others, as well as revising laws and regulations. He served as an Assistant Cavalry Attendant and was sent as an envoy to Chen Guo. Upon his return, he served as a palace attendant at the Wenlin Academy. He later held positions such as Palace Attendant, Kitchen Gentleman, and Assistant Gentleman. Cui Ran and Li Ruodu from Dunqiu were both well-known, and people at the time would say, "Among the talents in the capital, there are Cui Ran and Li Ruodu." After the Northern Qi dynasty fell, he returned to his hometown, where he served as a magistrate of the county and was later appointed as the chief clerk in the commandery.
In the fourth year of the Kaihuang reign, the court summoned him to serve as a secretary, and shortly after he also served as an official in the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Several years later, he also served as an official in the Imperial Secretariat, and was once again sent as an envoy to the state of Chen. Upon his return, he was appointed as an official in the Imperial Secretariat. At that time, the Duke of Yue, Yang Su, held great power and held Cui Hao's family background in high regard, wanting to marry his daughter to Cui Hao's son, Cui Xuanzong. The betrothal gifts were lavish. On the day of the wedding, many dignitaries were present, and Yang Su sent someone to welcome Cui Hao, but Cui Hao deliberately dressed in shabby clothes and arrived on a donkey. Yang Su wanted him to sit in the place of honor, but Cui Hao acted disrespectfully, displaying arrogance and rudeness. Yang Su was very angry, stormed out, and directly disbanded the banquet. After a few days, Cui Hao went to offer his apologies, and Yang Su still treated him the same way as before. During the reign of the Renshou period, Cui Hao passed away in the capital city at the age of seventy-two. His son, Cui Shiji, survived him.
Zhuge Ying, also known by his courtesy name Han, was from Jiankang in Danyang. His grandfather, Zhuge Quan, served as Governor of Lingling during the Liang Dynasty, and his father, Zhuge Gui, served as Governor of Yiyang. Zhuge Ying could write by the age of eight. He first served as a military officer under Prince Shaoling of the Liang Dynasty and was later promoted to secretary. When Hou Jing rebelled, he fled to Northern Qi and became an official at Wenlin Hall. He later became a Doctor of the Imperial Academy and a Prince's Attendant. After Northern Zhou defeated Northern Qi, he struggled to find an official position, so he secluded himself for over a decade to focus on studying the Book of Changes, astronomy, the Book of Songs, the Book of Documents, Zhuangzi, and Laozi, deepening his understanding of these classics. He was known for his integrity and eloquence, which earned him high regard from Prince Yang Guang, who appointed him first as a military officer, then later as a secretary. When Yang Guang ascended the throne as Emperor Yang of Sui, Zhuge Ying was promoted to Gentleman of the Palace Writers and was held in high favor by the Emperor. He frequently visited the inner chambers of the palace, was invited to imperial banquets, even sharing seats and sleeping quarters with the Empress and concubines. Seizing this opportunity, Zhuge Ying spread rumors about others, which earned him the nickname "Yi Ge" (Yi, meaning to roam around, Ge, referring to Zhuge). Later, out of nostalgia, the Emperor appointed him as a Court Gentleman. The Emperor frequently gifted him poems, the last stanza of which reads:
"In the Longzhou Garden I lecture, at the Sicheng Gate I attend.
Exploring the principles to the fullest, discussing the talents freely.
Recording the truth with fairness, guiding the future generations with fame."
This illustrates the Emperor's favorable treatment of him. Later, during Emperor Yang of Sui's campaign against the Tuyuhun tribe, Zhuge Ying was promoted to Grand Master of Deliberations. He accompanied the Emperor on a northern tour, where he passed away at the age of seventy-seven.
Zhuge Ying was hot-tempered and often quarreled with Liu Bian. The emperor had scolded them many times, but they continued to bicker. Later, the emperor gradually grew distant from him. He left behind a collection of twenty volumes, and also wrote "Records of the Northern Inspection Tour" in three volumes, "Records of the Journey to Jiangdu" in one volume, "Records of Luoyang Past and Present" in one volume, and "Catalog of Horses" in two volumes, which have been passed down through the ages. He had a son named Zhuge Jiahui.
Sun Wanshou, courtesy name Xianqi, was from Wuqiang in Xindu. His grandfather, Sun Bao, held the position of Cavalier Attendant during the Wei Dynasty, and his father, Sun Linghui, served as a National Scholar under the Qi Dynasty. At the age of fourteen, Sun Wanshou studied the Five Classics with Xiong Ansheng from Fucheng, and likely grasped their main principles, while extensively reading various historical books. He was good at writing articles and was known for his elegant speech. He was greatly admired by the people of Boling. During the Northern Qi Dynasty, he became an official by the age of seventeen. After Emperor Yang Jian of the Sui Dynasty proclaimed himself emperor, Teng Muwang invited him to take on the role of a literary official. Due to once appearing unkempt, he was assigned to guard the borders of Jiangnan. Later, the military commander Yu Wenshu summoned him to oversee military documentation. Sun Wanshou was originally a scholar, gentle and elegant; his sudden transition to military life left him feeling quite uncomfortable, leading to feelings of frustration and unfulfillment. He then wrote a five-character poem to a close friend in the capital.
Jia Yi is in Changsha, Qu Yuan is by the Xiang River; this miasma-filled place in Jiangnan has always been where disgraced officials are sent. I am not a shrewd official; I have been clumsy since I was young, unable to manage my own future. I want to fly but have no wings; I want to sing but can't catch the dawn. How did a mere writer end up as a soldier wielding a gun? I float like a puppet, discarded like a vicious dog. I drifted westward in disappointment, not meaning to head east. I only passed through Hangu Pass in my old age and reached Jingkou in the spring. From the mouth of the Yangtze River, you can see the Cowherd Star and the Weaver Girl Star. A sinister aura hangs near the Cowherd and Weaver Stars, where fierce and brutal people have already gathered in groups. Xi Chao has just entered the court, and Wang Can has just begun his military career. I carry provisions on the edge of the Chu Mountains, wearing armor by the Wujiang River. The Wujiang River's waves are vast, while the Chu Mountains appear chaotic. The sun shines brightly on the raging waves, and under the tall trees, clouds and mist swirl. In Yue, people often win through eloquence, while in Shu, they express their talents through writing. Lu Zhonglian sought to save himself from peril, but I have no desire for fame or glory. After drifting for so long, I often find myself missing my hometown, scratching my head and sighing. It's not that I haven't planted daylilies or that I don't have wine to drink! Though my ambitions remain unfulfilled, I've already faced life's ups and downs, and my hair has turned white too soon. My mind is in chaos, daydreaming about the past. In the past, I played in the capital and met like-minded people when I was young. Eating simple meals in the southern pavilion, riding in luxurious carriages in the western garden. The people of Hejian County love to read, and the people of Dongping County cherish talent. My eloquence is earth-shattering, and my words are profound and truthful. I am on duty in the Fengchi Palace and often go to the Linzige to play. Many guests gather in good places, and beautiful scenery complements each other. Cruising on Kunming Lake, riding horses across the Wei River Bridge. Holding a purification ceremony by the Ba Bridge, hosting banquets for guests in the eastern suburbs. Fine wines are brewed in Yicheng, and new songs are sung in Yangzhai. Crows call at night on the trees, and pheasants fly in the morning. Fine dust falls from the beams, and long sleeves sway gently in my hands. Three happy things have been obtained, and a hundred worries have disappeared. Dreams seem like yesterday, but thinking back makes me feel lonely for a long time. One day, I got caught up in worldly troubles, drifting thousands of miles like raging waves. The wheels keep turning, and the fluttering flags cannot withstand the shaking. From a high vantage point, I see my hometown beyond the white clouds. When I look back, I see only the lonely city walls, which add to my worries. Cranes cry at night in Huating, and warblers sing in the secluded valley in the morning. The severed connections are hard to mend, and my wandering soul is often troubled. Our family and the Qun family are on good terms; Zoulu is my hometown. If you encounter southbound wild geese, please ask them to check on my relatives back home and see if they are doing well.
Second Paragraph:
After leaving my hometown and county for years, saying goodbye to relatives and friends over three autumns. After years of ambition, the winds and clouds have shifted; signs of aging appear in my hair before the willows. My thoughts are as tangled as silk threads, filled with memories of the past. In my youth, I traveled to the imperial capital and met true friends. Dining in a southern inn and visiting the western garden beneath a fluttering canopy. I originally loved books in Hejian but now only admire the scholars of Dongping. A gifted debater among mortals, his eloquent words delve into the principles of renown. At times residing by the Phoenix Pond, often wandering in the Unicorn Pavilion. Distinguished guests gather at scenic spots, inviting each other to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Sailing on the waters of Kunming, riding toward the bridge over the Wei River. Cleansing the banks of the Lin River, making offerings in the eastern suburbs. Savoring wine in Yicheng, enjoying the new melodies of Yangzhai. Crows caw around the trees at night, while pheasants take flight at dawn. Fine dust settles beneath the beams, delicate and lovely in my palm. Three joys arrive, banishing a hundred worries. Dreams linger as if they were yesterday, while my thoughts dwell in solitude. Once caught in the world's web, I chase the waves across thousands of miles. The wheel of life keeps turning, and the flag hangs still. Climbing high to gaze at the horizon, beyond the white clouds at my hometown's gates. Looking back at the lonely city, my sorrow deepens. Cranes call in the Hua Pavilion at night, while early birds sing in the quiet valley. It's difficult to mend a broken heart; my wandering soul is often startled. Shared customs and a love for the hometowns of Zou and Lu. If I were to see migrating geese from the south, I might be able to visit the realms of the living and the dead.
After this poem spread to the capital, it became very popular at the time, and many people copied it on the walls to admire. Later, when he returned to his hometown, he was unable to get promoted for more than ten years. It was not until the time of the Renshou era that he was summoned to serve as the Chief Historian of Prince Yuzhang, but it was not a role he desired. Prince Yuzhang was later appointed to the land of Qi, and he became the literary officer of the King of Qi. Many royal officials were executed during that period, which only heightened his unease, so he resigned on the pretext of illness. It was a long time before he was appointed as the Chief Inspector of the Dali Court, and he eventually passed away in office at the age of fifty-two. He left behind ten volumes of writings that have endured through the ages.
Wang Zhen, styled Xiaoyi, was from Dongliu in Liangzhou. He was bright and quick-witted from a young age, starting to study at the age of seven, mastering the "Book of Songs," "Book of Rites," "Zuo Zhuan," and "I Ching," as well as the works of various other schools of thought, reading extensively. He excelled in writing, was indifferent to family wealth, and often enjoyed reading and reciting. During the Kaihuang era, the Prefect of Bianzhou, Fan Shulue, recommended him as his chief clerk. Later, he was recommended as a Xiucai and appointed as a county magistrate, but this was also not to his liking. So he resigned and returned home on the pretext of illness. After Emperor Yang of Sui ascended the throne, Prince Qi Yang Jian stationed at Jiangdu heard of his reputation and wrote a letter to summon him, saying:
It is said that precious jade is hidden in the mountains, its brilliance shining through the corridors and courtyards; magical swords are buried underground, their sword energy soaring into the sky, surpassing the stars. Therefore, Mozi was able to stand out and move Lord Pingyuan; Sun Shu'ao was able to assist Duke Wen, governing the East Sea. But I am just an ordinary person, always admiring outstanding talents like you, hoping to meet you and talk about the clear wind and bright moon. I have been looking forward to this for a long time, but have not had the chance to meet. Now that the weather is hot and it is about to cool down, like the celestial palms in the sky about to receive the clear dew, I believe this is a perfect opportunity for us to meet and relax together.
My life is leisurely and carefree, enjoying the scenery of mountains and rivers in my garden, playing the piano and reading books in my spare time, living a life away from the hustle and bustle. Like Sima Xiangru, who resigned from his official position to retire in Maoling, though he wrote "Fengshan Wen." Similarly, Tao Yuanming resigned from his official position to retire in Pengze, leaving behind "Guilai Ci." Their leisurely and elegant life is truly admirable! I am currently serving in a frontier town, responsible for managing Yangzhou and Yuezhou, handling government affairs daily, hearing lawsuits, and making judgments; when would I have time to compose poetry and essays? I have always wanted to resign and retire, living a leisurely life. However, opportunities to meet scholars like Ying, Liu, Shen, and Mu, when I used to sail in Beizhu and visit Xiyuan, are now just hearsay, rarely seen in person.
You are talented, well-known, knowledgeable, and eloquent, but you live hidden between Hengshan and Miyang, like possessing a treasure yet being lost in the mundane world, single-mindedly pursuing self-improvement—truly regrettable! Now I have sent someone to visit you to express my respect; I hope you can come. My longing to see you is more urgent than hunger or thirst, and I hope to meet you soon and sincerely communicate with you. I won’t indulge in empty rhetoric or unrealistic fantasies; please forgive me for the imperfections in this letter.
When Zhenzhi arrives, please welcome him with the appropriate guest etiquette and send people to inquire about his well-being every day. You also requested his writings, but Zhenzhi declined, saying: "..."
Mr. He Deren asked me to show him those rather immature articles I had written before. Thinking about those powerful figures in ancient times, like Gong Dan, who was remarkable and seemed to communicate with the spirits; like Confucius, whose writings flowed as naturally as the way of heaven. Their noble aspirations influenced You Xia's literary aspirations, and their influence still rippled through the eras of Qu Yuan and Song Yu. The exquisite rhetoric of their works has been preserved in the Book of Songs and the Songs of Chu, and later sages took them as models to study. Unfortunately, times change, and everyone goes their separate ways, from the fresh literary style of the Zhengshi period to the magnificent literary style of the Yuankang period. Everyone claims to possess precious treasures, but who would be willing to admit they are merely ordinary?
I was born into a time of turmoil and grew up amid chaos; I didn’t study thoroughly, and my talent pales in comparison to others. Even though I live in a decent house, I still feel impoverished and insignificant, unable to lift my head. I once got lost in Yan Ying, went the wrong way in Handan, and returned feeling disheartened and despondent, with a completely cold heart. To my surprise, the Emperor actually took notice of my rather immature opinions! The Emperor even used a noble carriage to transport me, an insignificant person, and wasted precious pearls on trivial matters. Finally, the Emperor gave me three months of travel expenses, giving me the chance to return to the court, and I hurried here from afar, hoping to catch up with the pace of the court.
I am just an ordinary commoner, living with those fine horses on the same land, singing and tapping on clay pots all day. I can't hold a candle to proper musical instruments. In the evening, I have to head home. How can I even compare to those ancient sages? Looking back on my life, I have experienced a lot and have a lot of feelings. It's just that, due to old age and failing health, I've forgotten a lot. It wasn't easy for me to put together thirty-three scrolls of writings. When I think about reaching that level, I see how far away becoming an immortal really is. I feel so close to the realm of immortals, yet always just falling short. I'm afraid of suddenly descending like a real dragon, and ashamed of coming back like a white pig. I can only sit at my desk and write this letter, feeling a mix of fear and excitement.
King Qi read the collection of writings I presented to him and liked it very much, rewarding me with four fine horses. Later, I presented the "Jiangdu Fu" to King Qi, and he rewarded me with one hundred thousand guan and two horses. Not long after, due to illness, I went back to my hometown and eventually passed away at my home.
Yu Chuo, whose courtesy name was Shiyu, was from Yuyao, Zhejiang. His father, Yu Xiao, was a counselor to the founding king of the Chen dynasty. Yu Chuo was very tall, measuring a full eight feet, handsome and talented, particularly skilled in cursive and clerical writing. General Fu Zi, the left guard of the Chen dynasty, was quite famous back then. After reading Yu Chuo's writings, he exclaimed to others, "Yu Lang's writings couldn't be better!"
Yu Chuo first served as a doctoral candidate at the Imperial Academy of the Chen Dynasty, and later was promoted to serve as the secretary to Prince Yongyang. After the fall of the Chen Dynasty, Prince Jin of the Sui Dynasty, Yang Guang, recruited him as an advisor. During the Daye era of the Sui Dynasty, Yu Chuo was promoted to a scholar at the Secretariat, and the emperor ordered him, along with Secretary Yu Shinan, Assistant Secretary Yu Zizhi, and others, to compile more than ten books including "Changzhou Yujing." The emperor always praised Yu Chuo's writings, but his official rank did not advance significantly. He began his career as a junior clerk and was also appointed as Xuanhui Wei for his service in the palace. Later, he was promoted to Assistant Secretary, and he, along with Yu Shinan, Yu Zizhi, and Cai Yungong, often stayed in the palace, specifically responsible for writing articles for the emperor. The emperor treated them exceptionally well, and their relationship was notably harmonious.
Once, Emperor Yang of Sui led troops to campaign in Liaodong. While the emperor was encamped in Linhai, he saw a very large bird and found it quite remarkable, so he asked Yu Chuo to write an inscription to commemorate the occasion. The inscription was as follows:
(The original poem is retained here without translation)
In the summer of the year 612, the emperor subdued the Liaodong region and returned in triumph. The emperor's chariot headed south, the banners waved westward, and he camped in Lincheng County in Linhai. The scenery was breathtaking, akin to a fairyland! The royal tents were set up outside the city gate, spanning across hills, with tents and palaces surrounding the area, overlooking a vast valley. The emperor commanded a halt to the clamor of carriages and horses, got off a light sedan chair, comforted the people, prayed for blessings, and walked on the white sand and green grass. This scene resembled Emperor Yao's inspections of the fields, much like those of Han emperors along the Yellow River. The emperor had a generous spirit, gazing towards Penglai Island, standing there in contemplation for a long while.
The atmosphere on the scene was solemn and dignified, with guests gathering. The emperor's holy virtue spread far and wide, calming the smoke of battle, allowing the people to live and work in peace, and an aura of good fortune filled the air. The sun shone brightly, auspicious clouds lingered, the sky and earth were vast, and the sea was calm.
At that moment, suddenly a pair of divine birds appeared, white as herons, descending from the sky. They were over ten feet tall and with a wingspan even greater, their feathers shining with a frost-like brilliance, and their beaks and claws were vivid red. They flew like phoenixes, sometimes soaring and sometimes perching, sometimes jumping and sometimes pecking, playfully circling around the emperor's carriage. It was not because of playing music or striking jade stones, but because the emperor's holy virtue moved them to come and pay their respects.
These divine birds were truly the steeds of immortals, the rulers of the avian realm. How could they be compared to the azure bird of the Queen Mother of the West or the scarlet goose of the East Sea! Although the achievements etched into Mount Hua and Mount Song seemed incomplete due to some supernatural events, and the deeds recorded on Mount Zou were not flawless, they remain recorded in historical texts for future generations to read. Moreover, with the emperor's great merit, shining holy virtue, and such auspicious signs, why would it be necessary to inscribe them on famous mountains?
As a humble servant, I take the liberty to inscribe and record this:
It is said that Yu Chuo, who followed the emperor on the eastern expedition to pacify the Three Hans, returned in triumph, truly magnificent and deserving of honor! With the emperor personally commanding, the mighty army swept all before it, the war ended cleanly, and the people lived in peace, resulting in a scene of harmony. Upon returning to the capital, the emperor stopped along the way, enjoying the breathtaking scenery, feeling immensely satisfied. Even divine birds appeared, heralding auspicious signs—a true blessing from the heavens!
"Emperor was very satisfied with this Eastern Expedition; he specially ordered to engrave the achievements on a stone tablet by the sea and granted Yu Chuo the official title of Festival Commander. Unfortunately, Yu Chuo was arrogant and regarded everyone with disdain. There was a scholar named Zhuge Ying who was appreciated by the Emperor for his knowledge, but Yu Chuo always looked down on him, which caused tensions between them. Once, the Emperor asked Zhuge Ying what he thought of Yu Chuo, and Zhuge Ying candidly replied, 'Yu Chuo is quite rude!' The Emperor agreed with him. In contrast, Yang Xuangang, the Minister of Rites, was proud yet humble towards those with talent and formed a friendship with Yu Chuo. Yu Chuo often spent time with Yang Xuangang. His cousin, Yu Shinan, advised him, 'The Emperor is quite suspicious; you're getting too close to Yang Xuangang. If you cut off ties with him, the Emperor will see that you've changed your ways and won't hold it against you; otherwise, you're bound to get into trouble eventually!' But Yu Chuo didn't listen."
Later, someone reported that Yu Chuo had lent the military books in the palace to Yang Xuangan, which made the emperor very angry. After Yang Xuangan's rebellion failed, his family property was confiscated, and his concubines were all sent to the palace. The emperor asked these concubines who Yang Xuangan was close to, and they revealed Yu Chuo. The emperor ordered Zheng Shanguo, the Chief Justice, to thoroughly investigate this matter. Yu Chuo defended himself, saying, "Yang Xuangan and I were just ordinary scholars socializing, drinking and chatting; there was no conspiracy." The emperor didn't believe him and demoted him to a position in Qumo. After arriving in Chang'an, Yu Chuo died. The authorities were hot on his trail, so he had to secretly cross the Yangtze River, change his name, and call himself Wu Zhuo. He fled to Dongyang, then later to Xin'an, seeking refuge with Xin Dade from Tianshui, who took him in. Over a year later, Yu Chuo had a land dispute, was recognized and arrested by the authorities, and finally beheaded in Jiangdu. He was fifty-four years old. The poems and articles he wrote are still circulating in the world.
Dade, this kid, made a significant contribution by capturing thieves, and the common people all supported him. As a result, he and Chuo were both arrested by the government. His wife tearfully said, "Every time I advise him not to hide that scholar (referring to Chuo), now that this has happened, this is just too tragic!" Dade smiled and said, "I originally wanted to save that old brother (referring to Chuo), but I didn't expect to be reported instead; that's my fault. I guess I have to pay the price." Just then, the emperor decreed that if one could wear the blame and make achievements, killing enemies and serving the country could exempt one from death. The people of Xin'an County rushed to the authorities, kowtowing to the messenger and pleading, "Xin Dade's case is related to the lives of all the people in our county! If Xin Dade leaves, our Xin'an County is finished!" The messenger was moved by their pleas and allowed Dade to go after the bandits. When the emperor heard about this, he was furious and ordered the messenger's execution, thus Dade was able to save his life.
Wang Zhou, courtesy name Chengji, was from Linyi in Langya. His grandfather, Wang Yun, was the Minister of State for the Crown Prince in the Liang Dynasty; his father, Wang Xiang, was the Attendant of the Yellow Gate in the Chen Dynasty. Wang Zhou showed exceptional talent from a young age. He served as the Legal Officer under Prince Poyang in the Chen Dynasty and was later promoted to be the Gentleman of the Crown Prince and the Literary Officer of Prince Dongyang. After the fall of the Chen Dynasty, Prince Yang Guang of Jin recruited him as a scholar. During the Renshou period, he followed Liu Fang to attack Linyi, earned merit and was appointed Commander-in-Chief. In the early years of the Daye era, he became the Assistant Officer of the Imperial Library and caught the attention of Emperor Yang of Sui for his remarkable literary talent.
Emperor Yang of Sui often returned from the eastern capital Luoyang to the western capital Chang'an, and would order grand banquets nationwide, composing a five-character poem himself and then asking Wang Zhou to continue writing. The poem Wang Zhou wrote was:
"The marketplaces of Heluo are renowned, the passes of Xiaohanguan are profound. The Zhou camp at Qufu is established, the Han built Fengchun Temple. The great ruler inherits two generations, the imperial residence prospers in two capitals. Summoning the grandeur, pointing east, the heavenly steeds gallop westward. Displaying the chariot with jade wheels, the path is illuminated by the golden guards. Thousands of gates adorned with rare carriages, the four corners bustling with chariot attendants. This festival of late spring, the divine courts are in full bloom. The imperial sentiments touch the present, the wise thoughts are akin to the mulberry and elm trees. Decrees inquire about the centenarian, favors extend to the fifth day of the festival. Commoners bear the burden of melting and casting, how can they answer to the great furnace?"
After reading it, Emperor Yang of Sui greatly liked it and said to his courtiers, "Grand in spirit, deep in meaning, this reflects Wang Zhou's style; fluent in language, beautiful in expression, this is Wang Chengji's characteristic; ingenious in conception, innovative in intention, comparable to Yu Xin. Anything surpassing this cannot be considered a good poem." Many of Emperor Yang of Sui's poems were extended by Wang Zhou. He was held in high regard alongside Yu Chuo, and their friendship was very strong, serving as role models for many younger generations at that time. Later, Wang Zhou followed the army to campaign in Liaodong and was promoted to the position of Court Gentleman.
Wang Zhou's character is quite straightforward and somewhat reckless, because he sees himself as highly talented, is dissatisfied with his career, and always displays an arrogant attitude, looking down on many people. Zhuge Ying envied his talent and spoke ill of him in front of the emperor several times, but the emperor valued his talent and chose not to punish him. Yang Xuangang, the Minister of Ceremonies, was humble and had a good relationship with Wang Zhou, often visiting his home. After Yang Xuangang's rebellion failed, Wang Zhou and Yu Chuo were exiled to the frontier. Wang Zhou escaped, secretly returned to Jiangnan, was caught by the authorities, and finally executed at the age of fifty-six. Many of his poems have survived.
Wang Zhou's elder brother, Wang Shan, known as Yuangong, was knowledgeable and well-read. He was well-known in the Jiangnan region at a young age. He served as the Prince's Groom and a junior official in the Chen Dynasty. After the fall of the Chen Dynasty, he and Wang Zhou became scholars together. After Emperor Yang of Sui took the throne, he appointed him as an Assistant Imperial Secretary, and he died in office.
Yu Zizhi, from Yingchuan, Henan, was the son of Yu Chi, who served as the Commander of the Imperial Guards in the Chen Dynasty. Yu Zizhi had a passion for learning from a young age, had a stable personality, and was not one for indulgence. He held low-ranking positions in the Chen Dynasty, such as a military officer in the Prince of Yue's residence and a scribe in the Ministry of Grace. After the fall of the Chen Dynasty, he went to Chang'an but couldn't find a suitable job. Later, Prince Jin Yang Guang, having heard of his reputation, brought him on as an advisor. During the reign of Emperor Yang of Sui, he was appointed as an Assistant Imperial Secretary (responsible for drafting official documents).
Yu Zhi Zhi was particularly adept at writing, especially in five-character poems. He was modest and cautious, not one to socialize casually with others, which was why he was particularly favored by Emperor Yang Guang. When Yang Guang wrote articles or poems, he always showed them to Yu Zhi Zhi first, allowing him to point out any flaws. If Yu Zhi Zhi pointed out any issues, Yang Guang would make changes, sometimes even revising two or three times until Yu Zhi Zhi approved; only then would he officially publish it. It can be seen how highly Yang Guang regarded him! Later, when Yuwen Huaji rebelled, Yu Zhi Zhi followed Yang Guang north, facing numerous hardships along the way, sleeping in the carriage, suffering from the stress, falling ill, and eventually dying on the road. He left behind ten volumes of collected works which have been preserved through the ages.
Pan Hui, with the courtesy name Boyan, was from Wu County. He was gifted and studied "The Book of Rites" with Zheng Zhuo, "The Book of Songs" with Shi Gong, "The Book of Documents" with Zhang Chong, and "Zhuangzi" and "Laozi" with Zhang Ji, grasping the core principles of each. He excelled particularly in the three histories: "Records of the Grand Historian," "Book of Han," and "Book of Later Han." He possessed a strong writing style and was skilled in debate. The Prefect of the Shangshu of the Chen Dynasty, Jiang Zong, was known for welcoming scholars, and when Pan Hui visited, Jiang Zong held him in high regard. Pan Hui later became the assistant minister of the Kingdom of Xincai and was subsequently appointed as the magistrate of the guesthouse.
During the Sui Dynasty, Wei Dan was dispatched by the Sui Dynasty to conduct diplomatic visits to the Chen Dynasty. The Chen Dynasty sent Pan Hui to receive him. Wei Dan wanted to report back to Emperor Wen of the Sui Dynasty, so he wrote a memorial saying, "I humbly accept your kindness, and you have specially hosted a farewell banquet." Pan Hui believed that "submitting" was more formal and solemn than "respecting," which seemed somewhat less formal, so he withheld the memorial from submission. Wei Dan immediately responded, "The annotations of the 'Book of Rites' say, 'The essence of etiquette is respect.' The 'Book of Songs' states, 'Mulberry trees and catalpa trees must be treated with respect.' The 'Book of Filial Piety' says, 'Ancestral sacrifices should be solemn and grand.' It also says, 'Not respecting parents is considered a violation of etiquette.' Confucius feared the anger of heaven, and King Cheng Tang became increasingly revered because of his wisdom. Ancestral sacrifices are very important, heaven is highly revered, fathers are very respected, and monarchs are very respected. All four of these reflect the same level of respect. There is no different interpretation in the Five Classics. I don't understand why you consider the word 'respect' to be less weighty."
Pan Hui countered, "When I mentioned the word 'respect' just now, I didn't completely think it was trivial. It's just that its usage varies, which affects its meaning. The 'Book of Rites' emphasizes respect, which is a widely accepted notion, just like how men 'receive a courtesy name' after coming of age, with annotations saying 'use a respectful name after reaching adulthood.' In the 'Spring and Autumn Annals,' it records Ji Que, and it also mentions 'mutual respect' between husband and wife. There is respect for sons and also for husbands respecting wives. Can any of these truly be regarded as highly respectful? For example, 'respectfully thank the gentlemen' is obviously not in a formal context; 'the young master shows love and respect' is only used between guests and friends; 'respectful inquiry' and 'respectful report' have similar meanings; 'respectful listening' and 'respectful reciprocation' have no relation to hierarchy. Therefore, while the word 'respect' is not trivial, in language usage, sometimes the meaning is more casual. Now saying 'respectfully present,' it’s understandable why people might be skeptical. I was merely providing an example, not making a deep argument." Wei Dan was defeated by Pan Hui's argument and had to revise the memorial.
After the downfall of the Chen Dynasty, Pan Hui became a provincial scholar, and Yang Jun, the King of Qin, heard of his reputation and summoned him as a scholar. One time, while accompanying Yang Jun to the capital, Pan Hui was asked to compose poetry while riding. After riding a short distance, he completed it, entitled "Ode to Gratitude." Yang Jun was quite fond of it. He then asked Pan Hui to write another piece titled "The Ten Thousand Character Essay," and also to compile a lexicon titled "Rhymes Compendium."
During the Sui Dynasty, they inherited the culture from the Xia, Shang, and Zhou Dynasties, expanded their own culture, engaged in external warfare and managed internal affairs, and recorded their achievements on Mount Tai and Mount Song, as well as on bells and cauldrons. They valued ritual and music, promoted them in schools, and collected folk songs. Our Prince of Qin, gifted and talented, well-versed in the poetry of Chu, proficient in the Book of Changes, loved Confucian culture, knowledgeable in various fields, from astronomy to geography. He enjoyed reading and hunting, but only read historical books while hunting. He recruited talents, rewarded those who contributed, promoted talents, and spared no effort. Therefore, everyone worked hard to improve themselves and showcased their skills.
That year, the Prince of Qin was by a stream in a bamboo grove, surrounded by beautiful scenery, with his ministers gathered to discuss various academic topics. They discovered that the elementary textbooks were in disarray; even with the Zhou Rites and Han Laws, many statements were inconsistent, and words and pronunciations differed, with books such as "San Cang" and "Ji Jiu" which contained only a handful of passages, and dictionaries like "Shuo Wen Jie Zi" and "Zi Lin" only categorizing characters. As for phonetics and rhythms, it was even more chaotic and difficult to unify. Later, Li Deng's "Sheng Lei" and Lu Jing's "Yun Ji" distinguished between tones, but lacked a basis and were not comprehensive enough for poetry creation.
So the Prince of Qin personally ordered the organization and standardization of phonetics and rhythms, recompiled, and referenced a large number of classics, eventually completing the thirty-volume "Yun Zuan." This was a remarkable achievement! So they asked me, a person with limited knowledge, to write the preface. My knowledge is limited, and my skills are modest; I can only do my best, hoping that the great scholars of Qi and Lu, the outstanding talents of Chu and Zheng, the wise men of Xihe, and the talented men of Dongli can help me refine it.
Not long after, Jun passed away. Prince Jin Guang appointed him as a scholar in Yangzhou again and asked him to compile a book called "Jiangdu Collection of Rites" alongside fellow Confucian scholars. Prince Jin also asked Hui to write the preface, which stated:
... (Here should be the content of the preface written by Hui, but the original text did not provide it, so it cannot be translated) ...
The use of etiquette has truly reached its zenith! It is in harmony with the laws of nature, shining as brightly as the sun and moon. Its origins can be traced back to the era of the Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors, and its fundamental principles align with the four moral virtues (benevolence, righteousness, propriety, wisdom). Even when people lived in caves, the essence of etiquette had already begun to take root; beginning with divination practices using tortoise shells and animal bones, the specific practices of etiquette gradually emerged. Although the original intention of etiquette is very simple, not just referring to offerings like jade and silk, the evolution of the etiquette system serves as evidence of its significance from the Xia Dynasty to the Shang Dynasty. As for the officials in charge of ancestral temple sacrifices and those responsible for court etiquette, they maintain the harmony of the country, making both people and deities revered. Without etiquette, the admirable qualities of morality and benevolence cannot be fully realized, and people's behavior and conduct are inseparable from the norms of etiquette. Just as using seal ink to create a stamp is meant to keep documents from getting damp, it's not merely akin to farming and planting, which is solely for fertilizing and weeding!
Since ancient times, after the era of book burning and the burying of Confucian scholars, and the transitions between the Han and Wei dynasties, the deep insights of Shusun Tong and the extensive knowledge of Gaotang Long have led to the emergence of talents specializing in the study of rituals. Those who establish ritual systems do so with remarkable speed. The regulations of the rituals are already quite comprehensive, and various ritual norms are interrelated. The emperor sits on the throne, handles political affairs, establishes calendars, and perfects legal systems. Whether in places bustling with carriages, horses, and letters, or regions blessed with favorable weather, they are all influenced by rituals. People collect ancient classics, consult historical documents, and hold sacrificial ceremonies at Mount Taishan and Lingtai, while the system of rituals and music has been refined, covering norms from various dynasties. High-ranking officials like the Grand Preceptor, Grand Commandant, Yangzhou Governor, and Prince of Jin wield power, embody noble virtues, promote education, and exemplify benevolence. They inhabit the regions of the Zhou Dynasty and Shaoling, with accomplishments that span the Yellow and Yangtze River basins, excelling in both civil and military matters, showcasing a wide range of talents. They don armor to defend the borders and formal attire to govern the realm, attracting talents and building government offices. Additionally, they cultivate the six arts, bring together scholars from diverse schools of thought, carry on the traditions of the Jixia Academy, foster the culture of the Sishui region, explore every mystery, and tackle all challenges.
As for those exquisite ritual vessels, various classics and documents, discussions on criminal justice, and debates between Confucianism and Mohism, whether from the information collected by officials or the medical texts proofread by imperial physicians, people carefully discern truth from falsehood. Because the nature and wording of rituals will change with the times, and the ritual system will continue to be revised, the records of "Ming Tang" and "Qu Tai," the discussions of "Nan Gong" and "Dong Guan," the responses of Zheng Xuan, Wang Su, Xu Guang, and He Xun, and the comments of Cui Hao, Qiao Zhou, He Yan, and Yu Xin, although there are many classics and documents, the truly valuable content is rare indeed. Therefore, I used my spare time, after dealing with official duties, to study these classics attentively, as one would treasure them, carefully reading, organizing seriously, distilling complexities, grasping the key points, and ultimately completing a work on rituals, named "Jiangdu Collection of Rituals." The entire book consists of twelve volumes, one hundred and twenty scrolls; the total number of scrolls reflects the twelve months of the year and thirty days in each month, to compare with the movement pattern of stars, reflecting the norms of military and state affairs and human ethics.
In the past, local officials in Guimeng, Linghu, and other regions, as well as fiefs such as Suiyang and Huanyang, all imitated the emperor's ceremonies and held grand ritual activities, but there are no similar records in past literature. Therefore, I compared this work to treasures hidden along the banks of Hengshui, to the wonders of famous mountains and rivers; the rough characters carved into stone and the hanging gold signs both seem crude and unrefined. It can be seen that "Pei Wang Tong Lun" not only surpasses earlier works, but "Ning Shuo Xin Shu" is also superior to previous books. Thanks to the emperor's favor, I had the opportunity to travel to famous mountains and rivers, and I gained the emperor's appreciation. I have taken the liberty to detail the creative process behind this work.
After Yang Guang became emperor, he ordered Hui, along with assistant editors Lu Congdian, Chu Liang, Ouyang Xun, and others, to help Yang Su write the "Book of Wei." However, after Yang Su's death, the project was halted. Later, Hui was appointed as a scholar in Jingzhao. The Yang Xuangang brothers held him in high regard and frequently visited him. After Yang Xuangang's rebellion failed, anyone connected to him faced repercussions. Due to his close ties with Yang Xuangang, Hui fell out of favor with the emperor, and the authorities, complying with the emperor's wishes, demoted him to a minor registrar in Weiding County, Xihai Prefecture. He felt deeply aggrieved and fell ill, ultimately dying in Longxi.
Du Zhengxuan, courtesy name Shenhui, hailed from Jingzhao. His ancestor, Du Man, served as a Langzhong in Shizhao eight generations ago. From Du Man to Du Zhengxuan, their family had engaged in literature for generations, passing down their knowledge. Du Zhengxuan was particularly intelligent, knowledgeable, and well-read. His brothers, all under twenty years old, earned a strong reputation in the Sanhe region for their exceptional writing. During the Kaihuang period, he successfully passed the imperial examination and took part in the assessments at the Ministry of Personnel, focusing on strategic and tactical content. Du Zhengxuan answered quickly and well, and his writing was beautiful. At that time, Yang Su was both talented and arrogant. Du Zhengxuan engaged him in debate without backing down, which displeased Yang Su. Eventually, Lin Yi sent a white parrot as a tribute. Yang Su promptly summoned Du Zhengxuan and sent repeated invitations for him to come. Upon Du Zhengxuan's arrival, Yang Su immediately requested him to compose poetry. Du Zhengxuan was in a hurry and quickly finished writing. Yang Su was astonished that Du Zhengxuan had made no revisions. He then requested Du Zhengxuan to write over a dozen varied pieces, all of which he completed swiftly, showcasing elegant language and clear structure. Yang Su exclaimed, "This is a true scholar; I can't measure up to him!" He appointed him as an officer for Prince Jin and later promoted him to the position of Prince Yuzhang’s secretary, and eventually passed away while in office. His younger brother was named Du Zhengcang.
Du Zhengzang, courtesy name Weishan, was exceptionally studious and talented in writing. He passed the imperial examination before turning twenty and was appointed as a military officer in Chenzhou, later becoming a county magistrate. During the Daye era, he was already well-versed in knowledge and passed the imperial examination. His three brothers, who were all recognized for their exceptional writing, also went to the capital for the imperial examination at the same time, receiving much praise. He wrote over a hundred works, including inscriptions, elegies, epitaphs, praises, poems, and essays. He also wrote a book called "The Styles of Writing," which proved invaluable to later scholars and was regarded as a standard for writing, which they referred to as the "Du Family's New Book."
Du Jingzhao was equally talented, knowledgeable, and skilled in writing, eventually becoming a secretary for Prince Qin. After Prince Qin's death, he passed through the former palace and wrote a five-character poem which was highly esteemed by his contemporaries. He also wrote an essay called "On Brothers," which garnered praise for its insightful arguments.
In Hejian, there was a man named Yin Shi, who was well-educated and excelled in writing from a young age. During the Ren Shou era, he served as a secretary for King Han, who held him in high regard. After King Han's downfall, Yin Shi took his own life. His relatives Zhengqing and Yanqing were also gifted and well-known.
There was also a man in Hejian named Liu Shanjing, who was knowledgeable and especially gifted in writing. He held positions including Assistant Master of Writing and Prince's Attendant. He authored "Choude Chuan" in thirty volumes, "Zhu Liu Pu" in thirty volumes, and "Si Sheng Zhi Gui" in one volume, which have endured through the ages.
Zu Junyan, from Fanyang, was the son of Shangshu Puyi from the Qi Dynasty. Although he was short and somewhat awkward in speech, he was highly knowledgeable. Towards the end of the Daye period of the Sui Dynasty, he served as a county assistant in Dongping. When the county was besieged by Zhai Rang and subsequently fell under the control of Li Mi, Li Mi held him in high esteem, appointing him as a secretary, and all military correspondence was penned by him. After Li Mi's defeat, Zu Junyan was executed by Wang Shichong.
A man from Kuaiji, Kong Deshao, was very talented and served as the magistrate of Jingcheng County. After Dou Jiande declared himself king, he appointed Kong Deshao as the Minister of the Central Secretariat, specifically responsible for drafting documents. After Dou Jiande's defeat, Kong Deshao was executed.
Liu Bin, a man from Nanyang, was also quite literary and served as the assistant to the official responsible for military affairs in Xindu County. Dou Jiande appointed him as a secretary of the Central Secretariat. After Dou Jiande's defeat, he later became the Minister of the Central Secretariat under Liu Ta, and they both fled together to the Turks, and their whereabouts remain unknown.
Historical accounts indicate that Emperor Wen of Wei once said, "Most literati, ancient and modern, do not pay attention to the details, and few can stand on their reputation alone." This statement holds true! People like Wang Zhou, Yu Chuo, Cui Nao, and Xiao Yi are either arrogant and ignorant of worldly affairs, or despite their knowledge, their fate is unstable, their official positions fluctuate, they feel frustrated and resentful, their ambitions are uncertain, they look down on everyone else and hold court officials in contempt. Therefore, those who act eccentrically are often cast aside, and those who offend the powerful are not limited to Zhao Yi of Hanyang and Nie Heng of Pingyuan. Consequently, they often leave behind a trail of regrets and remorse, and few can end well. However, their knowledge encompasses ancient classics, and their writing is exquisite, like a branch in Denglin or a beautiful jade on Mount Kunshan. During the unification of the country under the Sui Dynasty, there were many talented individuals, yet only a handful stood out. Among them were the three Zhengxuan brothers, who were truly remarkable brothers!
