Zhuge Ying, courtesy name Han, was a native of Jiankang, Danyang. His grandfather Zhuge Quan served as the Prefect of Lingling during the Liang Dynasty, and his father Zhuge Gui served as the Prefect of Yiyang. Zhuge Ying was able to write articles at the age of eight. He initially served as a military advisor under Prince Shaoling of the Liang Dynasty and was later promoted to a secretary. During the rebellion of Hou Jing, he fled to Northern Qi and served as an imperial attendant at the Wenlin Pavilion. He later served as a Doctor of the Imperial College and as the Crown Prince's Attendant. After Northern Zhou conquered Northern Qi, he was unable to find an official position and spent over a decade secluded, focusing on studying the Book of Changes, maps, the Book of Songs, music, Zhuangzi, and Laozi, developing a profound understanding of these classics. He was known for his integrity and eloquence, earning high regard from Prince Yang Guang, who appointed him as a military advisor and later as a secretary. After Yang Guang became the Crown Prince, he appointed Zhuge Ying as the Director of the Imperial Pharmacy. When Emperor Yang of Sui ascended the throne, Zhuge Ying was promoted to a Gentleman of the Imperial Writers and was favored by the emperor. He frequently visited the inner chambers of the palace, where the emperor hosted banquets for him and even allowed him to drink and dine with the empress, concubines, and share the same bed. Zhuge Ying used this opportunity to spread rumors about others, earning him the nickname "Gossiping Zhuge." Later, due to their long-standing friendship, the emperor appointed him as a Grand Master of the Court. The emperor often bestowed poems upon him, with the final lines stating: "Participating in the discussions at Changzhou Garden, lecturing at the solemn Chengcheng Gate. Delving into the principles and reasoning, discussing freely the talents and brilliance. Recording the truth with fairness and integrity, passing on the fragrance to future generations." It is evident that the emperor held him in high regard. Later, he participated in the campaign against the Tuyuhun and was promoted to Senior Consultant. He accompanied the emperor on a northern tour and passed away during the journey at the age of seventy-seven.
Zhuge Ying was hot-tempered and frequently quarreled with Liu Bian. The emperor reprimanded them many times, but they continued to argue. Later, the emperor grew distant towards him. He wrote a collection of twenty volumes, as well as "The Northern Patrol of the Imperial Carriage: A Record" in three volumes, "Records of the Road to Jiangdu" in one volume, "Ancient and Modern Luoyang: A Record" in one volume, and "Catalog of Horses" in two volumes, all of which have been preserved through the ages. He had a son named Zhuge Jiahui.
Sun Wanshou, whose courtesy name was Xianqi, was from Wuzhang, Xindu. His grandfather, Sun Bao, served as a court official in the Wei Dynasty, and his father, Sun Linghui, served as a National Scholar in the Qi Dynasty. When Sun Wanshou was fourteen years old, he studied the Five Classics with Xiong Ansheng from Fucheng, gaining a solid grounding in their principles, as well as extensively studying various philosophical schools and historical texts. He was an accomplished writer with an elegant demeanor. Li Delin from Boling held him in high regard. During the Northern Qi Dynasty, he became a government official at seventeen. After Emperor Yang Jian of the Sui Dynasty ascended the throne, Teng Muwang summoned him to serve as a literary scholar. Once, due to improper attire, he was sent to guard the border regions in Jiangnan. Later, the military commander Yu Wenshu summoned him to manage military documents. Sun Wanshou, originally a scholar known for his elegance, felt out of place suddenly being thrust into military service, unable to utilize his talents. He composed a five-character poem for a close friend in the capital:
Jia Yi is in Changsha, and Qu Yuan is by the Xiang River. The South is plagued by heavy miasma, historically a place of exile for officials. I am not a shrewd official; I've always been clumsy since childhood, unable to manage my own future. I want to fly but have no wings; I want to sing but can't keep up with the dawn. How did a mere writer end up as a fighter? I drift like a puppet, abandoned like a stray dog. After my failure, I drifted west, not just impulsively heading east. It wasn't until my later years that I left Hangu Pass and arrived in the spring at Jingkou. Jingkou lies near a mountain inhabited by fierce beasts, and at Tianjin Ferry, you can see the Cowherd Star and the Weaver Girl Star. A sinister aura lingers between the Cowherd Star and the Weaver Girl Star, with bands of fierce bandits already formed. Xi Chao just entered the court, while Wang Can just started his military career. I wrapped dry rations on the border of Chu Mountain and wore armor by the Wujiang River. The Wujiang River flows wide and deep, while Chu Mountain appears tumultuous. The roaring waves splash sunlight, and mist swirls under tall trees. In Yue, I relied on my eloquence in debates, and in Shu, I have written quickly many times. Lu Zhonglian was only trying to save the country, but I never sought fame. The years of wandering are long, and homesickness often makes me sigh. It's not that I didn't plant xuan grass or that I have no wine to drink! It's been several years since I left my hometown county, and it's been three autumns since I bid farewell to relatives and friends. While ambitions shift like the wind, my hair has grayed before the willows have. My mind is chaotic, lost in memories of the past. In the capital, I met a confidant when I was young. Eating at the Southern Pavilion, riding in the Western Garden. The people of Hejian County love to read, while the people of Dongping County value talent. My eloquence is unparalleled, and my speech reveals the truth. Sometimes on duty at Fengchi, often playing at Lingge. Good places attract many guests and colleagues, and beautiful scenery captivates each other. Boating on Kunming Lake, riding across the Wei River bridge. Performing purification rituals on the Ba River, hosting banquets in the eastern suburbs. Yicheng's fine wine has just been brewed, and Yangzhai's songs are newly composed. Crows caw in the trees all night, and pheasants fly in the morning. Fine dust falls from the rafters, long sleeves sway gently in the palm. Having achieved three joyful things, my worries have all faded away. Dreams feel like they were just yesterday, yet the memories are already tinged with loneliness. One day, I was caught in the worldly net, drifting thousands of miles like waves. The wheels always turn on their own, and the hanging flags can't stop swaying. Looking up, only fluttering clothes are seen, my hometown beyond the white clouds. Looking back reveals only a lonely city, adding to my worries. Cranes cry in Huating at night, and orioles sing in the secluded valley in the morning. It's hard to mend the severed connections, and my bewildered soul is repeatedly startled. Our family and the Qunji family have a good relationship; Zoulu is my hometown. If you happen to see any migrating geese, could you ask them to check in on my friends and family and see if they're still doing okay?
Paragraph 2:
Back in the day, when I was in the capital city, I met many close friends when I was young. Dining at Nan Guan restaurant, taking a carriage ride in Xi Yuan, people from Hejian County are fond of reading, and people from Dongping County value talent. I was an unmatched debater, and my words revealed deep truths. Sometimes I would be on duty at Fengchi, often playing at Lingge. A good place gathers many guests and friends and associates, and the beautiful scenery drew everyone in. Boating on Kunming Lake, riding a horse over the Wei Water Bridge, performing purification ceremonies by the Ba River, hosting banquets in the east suburbs. The fine wine from Yicheng has just been brewed, and the songs from Yangzhai have also been freshly composed. Crows cawed in the trees all night long, and pheasants flew in the early morning. Fine dust fell from the roof beams, and long sleeves gently swayed in my palm. Three happy things have been achieved, and all the worries in my heart have disappeared. Dreams seem like yesterday, but thinking back, it has long been lonely.
Paragraph 3:
However, once ensnared in the worldly web, drifting thousands of miles like the rolling waves. The wheels always turn on their own, and the hanging flags cannot withstand shaking. Looking from a high vantage point, I only see the fluttering garments, my hometown beyond the white clouds. Looking back, I only see the lonely city, adding 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 bewildered soul is often startled. Our family and the Qunji family have a good relationship; Zoulu is where I call home. If you encounter southbound geese, please ask them to check in on my relatives and friends to see if they're still around.
This poem made its way to the capital city and became very popular, with everyone eager to recite it. Many people who loved the poem copied it onto walls for admiration. Later, when he returned to his hometown, he was unable to gain a promotion for more than a decade. It wasn't until the Ren Shou period that he was summoned to serve as the Chief Historian of Prince Yu of Yuzhang, a role he was not fond of. Prince Yu was later appointed to the Qi region, and he became the literary officer of Prince Qi. Many royal officials were being killed at the time, which increased his unease, so he resigned, claiming illness. After some time, he was appointed as the Director of the Dali Court, and eventually passed away in office at the age of fifty-two. He left behind ten volumes of his collected works, which have been passed down through the ages.
Wang Zhen, also known as Xiao Yi, was a native of Dongliu in Liangzhou. He was bright and clever from an early age, having begun studying at seven. He was well-versed in the Book of Songs, the Book of Rites, the Zuo Zhuan, the Book of Changes, and the works of various philosophers, devouring every text he could find. He was a talented writer and did not focus much on managing his family business, often taking pleasure in reading and reciting. During the Kaihuang period, the Prefect of Bianzhou, Fan Shulue, recommended him for the position of chief scribe, and he was later recommended as a scholar and appointed as a county magistrate, a role he was not interested in, so he resigned and returned home. After Sui Emperor Yang took the throne, Prince Qi Yang Jian was stationed at Jiangdu and, upon hearing of his reputation, wrote to summon him, saying:
It is said that there is beautiful jade hidden away in the mountains, radiating brilliantly between the corridors; there is a divine sword buried underground, its aura soaring into the sky, surpassing the stars. Therefore, it takes someone like Mao Sui to emerge in the world, impressing the Lord of Pingyuan with his sense of righteousness; only someone as capable as Sun Shu'ao could be appointed by the King of Chu to govern the East Sea. As for me, with average talents, I've always admired talented people like you, with a heart full of admiration, and I haven't had the chance to meet yet. I've been looking forward to this for ages! Now that the weather is hot and it is about to cool down, just like the fairy palm on the mountaintop is about to greet the morning dew, I think this is a good time for us to gather together and get some good rest. Usually, I enjoy the mountain and water views in my front and back gardens at my leisure; at home, with music and books on my left, and poetry and paintings on my right, I live a relaxed life, as if I were free from the fog. When I think of Sima Xiangru from Maoling, even though he was unwell, he still produced masterpieces like "Fengshan Shu"; Tao Yuanming from Pengze, before retiring from office, also left behind great works like "Returning Home." To be as relaxed and learned as they were is truly admirable!
As for me, I am currently working in a local government position, responsible for managing the affairs of Yangzhou and Yuezhou. I sit in the hall every day to handle cases, burdened with official duties, and have no time to compose poetry. I've always thought about retiring, but I keep putting it off. As for those high-ranking officials who sail to Beizhu or frolic in Xiyuan, like Ying and Liu, I have only heard of their names; those who visit Yan country, I rarely get to see them in person. You, with extraordinary talent, a renowned reputation, profound knowledge, and splendid writing, chose to live between Hengshan and Mishui, like holding a precious jade yet getting lost in the mundane world, only wanting to improve yourself—what a pity! I have sent someone to convey my thoughts to you in detail, hoping for your arrival with an eagerness that rivals a starving person waiting for food, hoping you can set off soon to fulfill my earnest expectations. The feelings I’ve expressed in this letter might not be enough, or might not come across well; I feel ashamed! When the letter is delivered, Mr. Wang welcomed me with the courtesy of a host, sending people every day to inquire about my well-being. He even asked for my writings, to which I politely declined, saying, "Mr. He Deren asked me to show him those earlier, less mature pieces of writing." Oh, when I think of those ancient geniuses, Gong Dan's talent could communicate with ghosts and gods, Confucius' writings were as natural as the way of heaven; their noble aspirations influenced You Xia, and the ripples still resonate in the poems of Qu Yuan and Song Yu. Their literary style was as exquisite as carving a dragon, left in the Book of Songs and the Songs of Chu; later scholars revered them as ancestors and studied their works. But times have changed, and everyone has gone their own way, from the fresh literary style of the Zhengshi period to the magnificent rhetoric of the Yuankang period. Everyone claims to possess precious treasures; who would admit they’re just mediocre?
I was born in a turbulent era, grew up in chaotic times, and I didn't excel in my studies; my talents were not outstanding. Finally catching up with a peaceful era, but time slips away day by day. Although living in a nice house, I still feel impoverished and unworthy. I once got lost in Yan and Ying, went the wrong way in Handan, and returned disheartened. I never expected that my immature remarks would be seen by the emperor, wasting his time, like using a noble carriage to transport a mouse, or using precious pearls to shoot birds. The emperor even made me bring three months' worth of dry rations, ordered me to return to the court, and sent me all the way to the banks of the Huai River to trace the old traces of Zhangtai. I set up a stall alongside common folks, stuck on the same patch of land like a warhorse, tapping on clay pots all day, unable to produce the harmonious sounds of Huangzhong, only returning home at night; I couldn't hold a candle to my predecessors! Thinking back on my life, wherever I go, I am filled with emotions, just because of old age and physical decline, many things have been forgotten, and the few remaining immature thoughts have barely been cobbled together into thirty-three scrolls. I look up at those unattainable sages, and only then do I realize how far away the path to immortality seems; I delve into those profound and mysterious knowledge, and only then do I realize how difficult it is to pursue the realm of sages. I am still far from the realm of sages, time is running out, afraid that I will descend into the world like a true dragon but return like a white pig, I can only pen this petition, my heart filled with both fear and excitement. King Qi took a liking to the collection I presented and rewarded me with four good horses. Later, I presented the "Jiangdu Fu," and King Qi rewarded me with one hundred thousand coins and two horses. Not long after, I fell ill and returned to my hometown, eventually passing away at home.
Yu Chuo, courtesy name Shiyu, was from Yuyao, Zhejiang. His father, Yu Xiao, was a strategist for the King of Shixing during the Chen Dynasty. Yu Chuo was very tall, standing a full eight feet tall, tall, handsome, and exceptionally talented, especially skilled in cursive and clerical script calligraphy. Fu Zai, the Left Guard General of the Chen Dynasty, was quite renowned. After reading an article written by Yu Chuo, he remarked to others, "Yu Lang's literary talent cannot be surpassed!"
He initially served as a Doctor of the Taixue in the Chen Dynasty, and was later promoted to serve as the secretary for the Prince of Yongyang. After the fall of the Chen Dynasty, he was invited by Prince Jin of the Sui Dynasty to become a scholar. During Emperor Yang's reign in the Sui Dynasty, he was promoted to Imperial Secretary, and at the emperor's command, he collaborated with Secretary Yu Shenan, Assistant Secretary Yu Zizhi, and others to compile over ten works, including "Changzhou Yujing." The Emperor consistently praised Yu Chuo's writings, yet his official rank saw little advancement. He began as a Proofreader and was later appointed as the Promoter of Virtue due to his duties in the palace. Along with Yu Shenan, Yu Zizhi, and Cai Yungong, he often resided in the palace, specifically tasked with composing writings for the Emperor. The Emperor treated them exceptionally well, fostering a harmonious relationship.
Once, Emperor Yang of the Sui Dynasty led troops to conquer Liaodong. While stationed in Linhai, the Emperor spotted an unusually large bird and found it curious, so he ordered Yu Chuo to write an inscription to describe the event. The inscription written by Yu Chuo was as follows:
(Original poem is retained here)
In the eighth year of Daye, which was the year of Renshen, on the fourth day of the fourth month in summer, the Emperor pacified Liaodong and Jieshi, and triumphantly returned. The Emperor's chariot headed south, the banners went west, and they stopped in Lincheng County in Linhai. The scenery was breathtaking, resembling a fairyland!
The royal camp is set outside the city gate, stretching across rugged mountains, surrounded by tents and palaces, overlooking a vast valley. The emperor ordered the clamor of carriages and horses to cease, dismounted from his lightweight sedan chair, called upon the birds and beasts, pacified the people, and treaded on the pure white sand, strolling through the lush green grass. This scene evokes memories of King Wen of Zhou surveying Mount Qi and Emperor Gaozu of Han overseeing the river. It brings to mind King Wen hunting to broaden his mind and Emperor Gaozu gazing at the Penglai Fairy Island with longing.
The entire atmosphere is solemn and extraordinarily serene. Coupled with the emperor's holy virtues spreading far and wide, quelling border conflicts and floods, the auspicious aura subtly spreads across the four seas; even the waves of the sea turned calm and gentle. The sun shines brightly, auspicious clouds linger, the sky and earth are vast, the sea is clear, and the scenery is breathtaking.
In that brief moment, a miraculous event suddenly occurred: a beautiful bird, as white as a crane or egret, descended from the heavens and landed before them. It stood over ten feet tall, with a wingspan exceeding three feet, its feathers glistening like fresh snow, its beak and claws bright red. It would soar like a phoenix, stand proudly like a phoenix, hop and peck, dance and rest, frolicking around the emperor's carriage, incredibly close. This was not due to the playing of music or the striking of jade, but because the emperor's virtuous deeds touched the heavens, causing this auspicious sign to appear.
This bird is simply the steed of immortals, the king among birds! Compared to the Queen Mother of the West's blue bird and the red goose of the East Sea, it is incomparable! Although some deeds engraved on Mount Hua and Mount Yue are difficult to record completely because of their extraordinary nature, the achievements recorded in Zou Shan are not without flaws, but historical records will always be left behind, and future generations will be able to see these words. Moreover, the emperor's accomplishments are immense, and his virtues shine brightly, full of sincere emotions, and such moving deeds have occurred, so why must they be inscribed on famous mountains?
The ministers bow in gratitude, only daring to keep this memory in the clouds: **(original poetic couplet preserved)**
Speaking of Yu Chuo, when he followed the emperor on the eastern expedition back then, the battles were intense, with victories all the way, defeating the enemy thoroughly, greatly pleasing the emperor. After the battle was over, the emperor was in a very good mood, traveling everywhere to enjoy the mountains and waters, even specifically going to the seaside, feeling the joy of victory among the mountains and waters. The scenery was breathtaking, with birds flocking about, chirping as if celebrating the victory. The emperor, seeing this scene, also felt very happy and ordered that this beautiful scenery be recorded.
The emperor was very satisfied with Yu Chuo's merits and granted him the title of Jianjie Wei. However, Yu Chuo was a bit arrogant and looked down on everyone, making him hard to tolerate. There was a man named Zhuge Ying whom the emperor appreciated, but Yu Chuo always looked down on him, resulting in a rift between them. The emperor once asked Zhuge Ying for his opinion on Yu Chuo, and Zhuge Ying bluntly said, "Yu Chuo is quite rude!" The emperor nodded upon hearing this. Yu Chuo had a particularly good relationship with Yang Xuangang, who was very powerful at the time, and they were like brothers, frequently hanging out together.
His cousin Yu Shinan advised him, "The Emperor is particularly suspicious. You are getting too close to Yang Xuange, and that’s not a good idea. If you cut off ties with him, the Emperor might think you have repented and you might be in the clear. But if you don't change your ways, trouble will eventually come!" However, Yu Chuo ignored this warning and kept hanging out with Yang Xuange. Later, someone tipped off the Emperor that Yu Chuo had lent military books from the palace to Yang Xuange, which made the Emperor furious. After Yang Xuange's rebellion failed, his assets were confiscated, and even his maids and concubines were sent to the palace. The Emperor asked these concubines whom Yang Xuange had been close to, and they revealed Yu Chuo. The Emperor ordered the Grand Minister Zheng Shanguo to investigate the matter thoroughly. Yu Chuo pleaded his case, saying, "I only drank and chatted with Yang Xuange; there were no other conspiracies." But the Emperor wasn’t buying it, and in a fit of rage, Yu Chuo was demoted to a remote place. Upon arriving in Chang'an, Yu Chuo realized he was in deep trouble and secretly fled across the river, changing his name to Wu Zhuo. He ran to Dongyang, then to Xin'an, where he encountered a kind man named Xin Dade who took him in. More than a year later, Yu Chuo found himself in a land dispute, and was recognized and caught by the authorities. He was ultimately executed in Jiangdu at the age of fifty-four. His writings and poetry have been preserved. As for Dade, the people held him in high regard for his efforts to quell banditry. Later, he and Chuo were both arrested by the authorities. His wife lamented, "I always warned you not to shelter those learned folks. What happened today is just heartbreaking!" Dade smiled and said, "I wanted to protect those talented people, but instead, I was reported. That was my fault. I should take the blame and pay for it to Chuo."
At this time, the court decreed that those sentenced to death could be spared if they performed meritorious deeds by killing enemies. The people of Xin'an County rushed to the government office to plead, saying, "Xin Dade's life is on the line! If Xin Dade is gone, Xin'an County will be finished!" Due to the people's pleas, the officials allowed Dade to lead the campaign against the bandits. Upon hearing this, the emperor was enraged and had the messenger who captured Dade executed. It was only then that Dade was able to save his life.
Wang Zhou, styled Chengji, was from Langya Linyi. His grandfather, Wang Yun, was the Grand Secretary of the Prince of Liang; his father, Wang Xiang, was the Yellow Gate Attendant of the Chen Dynasty. Wang Zhou was very talented from a young age, serving as a legal advisor to Prince Poyang during the Chen Dynasty, and later advancing to become the Prince's Attendant and the Literary Officer for Prince Dongyang. After the fall of the Chen Dynasty, Prince Jin Yang Guang recruited him as a scholar. During the Ren Shou era, he accompanied Liu Fang to campaign against Lin Yi and was appointed Commander-in-Chief due to his accomplishments. In the early years of the Daye era, he became an Assistant Librarian at the Imperial Library, and his exceptional literary talent caught the eye of Emperor Yang of Sui.
Emperor Yang of Sui often returned to the capital city from the eastern capital city and ordered a nationwide banquet, even composing a five-character poem himself and asking Wang Zhou to compose a poem. Wang Zhou's poem was: "Heluo is called the morning market, Xiaohan is truly a hidden gem. Zhou's camp in Qufu, and the Han established the Fengchun edict. The great monarch is the legacy of two dynasties, the imperial abode thrives between the two capitals. Striding boldly eastward, the celestial steed gallops westward. Displaying the wheels of jade and the path of gold, its elegance dazzles like the golden sentinels. Thousands of gates are adorned with rare carriages, the roads are bustling with carriages from all directions. As spring draws to a close, the divine garden blossoms. The emperor's sentiments resonate with the season, and his kindness lasts through the fifth day of the festivities. The common folk endure the burdens of labor; how can they respond to the great furnace?" The emperor liked it very much and said to the officials around him, "Grand spirit, great ambition, these traits define Wang Zhou; elegant language and a fluid writing style, these are the characteristics of Wang Chengji; deep meanings and innovative ideas can rival Yu Xin. It is difficult to say that a poem that surpasses him is good." Wang Zhou continued many of the emperor's poems. He and Yu Chuo were renowned contemporaries, and their friendship was very good. Many later generations looked up to them as role models. Later, Wang Zhou joined the army in its campaign against Liaodong and was elevated to the rank of court official. Wang Zhou had a rather straightforward character, unconcerned with minor details, and he believed himself to be exceptionally talented. He was not satisfied with his career path, always arrogant and offended many people. Zhuge Ying envied his talent and repeatedly spoke negatively about him to the emperor, but the emperor valued his talent and chose not to punish him. Yang Xuangang, the Minister of Rites, held him in high regard and often visited his home. Following the failure of Yang Xuangang's rebellion, both Wang Zhou and Yu Chuo were exiled to the frontier. Wang Zhou managed to escape and secretly returned to Jiangnan, but he was captured by authorities and subsequently executed. He was fifty-six at the time of his death. Many of his poems and essays have endured through the ages.
Wang Shou's elder brother, Wang Shen, whose courtesy name was Yuangong, was well-educated and knowledgeable in many areas. He was quite famous in Jiangnan when he was young. He held the positions of Prince's Stable Master and Middle Attendant during the Chen Dynasty. After the Chen Dynasty fell, he and Wang Shou both became scholars. After Emperor Yang of Sui ascended the throne, he was appointed as a Clerk in the Secretariat and eventually passed away while holding that position.
Yu Zizhi, from Yingchuan in Henan, was the son of Yu Chi, who served as the Commander of the Imperial Guards during the Chen Dynasty. Yu Zizhi had a love for learning from a young age, was calm and reserved, and did not seek pleasure. He held minor official positions in the Chen Dynasty, including positions like Military Officer at the Prince of Yuzhang's Mansion and Recorder of the Xuanhui Office. After the fall of the Chen Dynasty, he went to Chang'an but struggled to find suitable employment. Later, Prince Jin Yang Guang learned of him and invited him to become a scholar. During the Sui Dynasty, he was appointed as an Assistant Imperial Secretary, tasked with drafting official documents.
Yu Zizhi was particularly skilled in writing, especially five-character poems. He was especially favored by Emperor Yang of Sui. After writing an article, the emperor would always show it to Yu Zizhi first for his feedback. If Yu Zizhi pointed out any issues, the emperor would revise it—sometimes two or three times—until Yu Zizhi approved it. This shows just how much trust and respect the emperor had for him! He later also served as the Gentleman of the Palace Writers, responsible for recording the emperor's words and actions.
During the rebellion led by Yuwen Huaji, Yu Zizhi followed Emperor Yang of Sui north, enduring hardships while traveling in a simple open carriage. He worked tirelessly and with great worry, eventually passing away from illness. He left behind ten volumes of collected works that have been handed down through generations.
Pan Hui, also known as Boyan, was from Wu County. He was bright and gifted, studying the "Book of Rites" with Zheng Zhuo, the "Book of Songs" with Shi Gong, the "Book of Documents" with Zhang Chong, and the "Zhuangzi" and "Laozi" with Zhang Ji, and grasped their profound meanings. He was especially proficient in the "Shiji," "Book of Han," and "Book of Later Han." He was skilled in writing and debate, and gained great respect from Jiang Zong, the Minister of Rites in the Chen dynasty. After he had changed out of his commoner clothes, Pan Hui was appointed as an official in the Kingdom of Xincai, later being selected as the Prefect of the Guesthouse.
During a diplomatic visit from the Sui dynasty, Wei Dan was received by Pan Hui on behalf of the Chen dynasty. When Wei Dan wrote a memorial to report back to Emperor Wen of Sui, where he mentioned the farewell banquet hosted by the Chen ruler, Pan Hui thought that "submitting" sounded more formal and serious than "offering," which he felt was too casual. He therefore rejected the memorial and did not present it. Wei Dan argued on the spot, citing the "Annotations of the Rites," which emphasized the importance of respect in rituals. He challenged Pan Hui’s reasoning.
Pan Hui retorted, "When I mentioned the character '敬' earlier, I didn't mean to imply that it is less serious. It's just that its usage is different, which changes its meaning. The 'Book of Rites' emphasizes respect, which is a common statement, just as a man receives a respectful name only after reaching adulthood. In the 'Spring and Autumn Annals', the record of Ji Que mentions 'mutual respect' between husband and wife. There are references to respecting sons through naming and to husbands showing respect to their wives. How can all of this be seen as extremely formal? For example, '敬谢诸公' is obviously not in a formal context; '公子敬爱' is only used between guests; '敬问' and '敬报' have similar meanings; '敬听' and '敬酬' are unrelated to social status. Therefore, although the meaning of '敬' is not light, when used in spoken language, its meaning can sometimes feel more casual. Saying '敬奉' now makes people question it. I was just giving an example, not a particularly strong argument." Wei Dan could not refute this, so he followed Pan Hui's suggestion and made the changes.
After the fall of the Chen Dynasty, Pan Hui became a state scholar, and Prince Xiaowang of Qin, Yang Jun, heard of his reputation and appointed him as a scholar. Once, while traveling to the capital with Yang Jun, Pan Hui was asked to compose a poem while riding a horse. He finished it after riding a short distance and named it "Ode to Grace." Yang Jun was very impressed. He then asked Pan Hui to write a piece called "Ten Thousand Words" and compile a dictionary called "Rhyme Compendium."
For example, the legendary dragon totem was discovered in the Yellow River, the design of the divine turtle appeared in the Luo River, and those historical books written in green silk and white silk chronicled the achievements of the Xia, Shang, and Zhou dynasties, along with inscriptions carved in gold thread and jade on various artifacts, chronicling the rise and fall of the Yin and Shang dynasties. From oracle bones to the works of Confucius, they all record ancient and modern times, the affairs of people in both the shadows and the light, reflecting the will of heaven above while illuminating the human world below. These documents were produced with such exquisite craftsmanship, and the frequency of auspicious signs is remarkable, that they have been able to spread for thousands of years, standardize notable artifacts, become the focus of the people, serve as a model for future kings, and be praised and described, passing down through generations.
By the time of the establishment of the Sui Dynasty, the civilization inherited from the Xia, Shang, and Zhou dynasties radiated brightly like the stars of the Big Dipper, expanding the territory externally and governing with benevolent policies at home, commemorating achievements on Mount Tai and Mount Song, and inscribing them on bells and cauldrons. The court promoted ritual music, advocated education, collected folk songs, and gained insight into the people's sentiments. Our Prince of Qin, who is gifted and talented, possesses remarkable literary skills, is well-versed in poetry and literature, and has deeply studied the Book of Changes. He respects Confucianism, loves antiques, is knowledgeable and versatile, well-versed in a wide range of subjects. He enjoys reading and hunting, but in all his pursuits, he remains steadfast in his commitment to moral teachings and historical texts. He recruits talented individuals, rewards those who have made contributions, promotes those who are talented but inexperienced, and spares no effort in his endeavors. As a result, everyone worked diligently to study, strive for excellence, and serve the court.
That year, when Mars appeared, the moon had moved to the constellation of Yi Ze. The King of Qin was in a tranquil state of mind as he arrived at the riverside of the bamboo forest, leaning against the cassia trees and the rocks. The beauty of the mountains and rivers enriched his spirit, while the picturesque scenery sparked his creativity. A vibrant atmosphere of learning filled the air as scholars and generals gathered together. Therefore, the King of Qin began to organize various texts, finding numerous errors and inconsistencies in the primary texts. Although the Zhou Li and Han Lu attempted to unify this knowledge, there were numerous interpretations and considerable discrepancies. Additionally, there were inaccuracies in writing and variations in pronunciation. Books like "San Cang" and "Ji Jiu Pian" only preserved select chapters and verses, while "Shuo Wen Jie Zi" and "Zi Lin" offered explanations solely from a character-based perspective. Phonology, on the other hand, was even more disordered, rendering its rules difficult to grasp. Later, Li Deng's "Sheng Lei" and Lv Jing's "Yun Ji" were published; though they distinguished between tones, they lacked a solid foundation and were overly simplistic, falling short of the requirements for poetic composition. Therefore, the King of Qin personally ordered the organization of phonological studies, established standards, reorganized the material, and devised new methods to align sound with text, and included annotations. He carefully examined the phonological elements, drawing from classical texts and extensively referencing works such as "Chu Ci," "Shi Jing," and various philosophical schools, investing tremendous effort, and ultimately completed this thirty-volume work, "Yun Zuan." This book can be housed in renowned stone chambers of famous mountains, allowing the world to realize that those so-called treasures may not be truly valuable. Now, allow me, a person of limited knowledge, to write a preface. My talents are limited, my thoughts abound, and I feel like a pile of ashes; my writing is devoid of vitality. I can only do my best, with a heart full of gratitude, to write this preface, hoping that the Confucian masters from the Qi Lu region, the distinguished talents from the Chu Zheng region, the virtuous scholars from the Xi River, and the gifted youths from the East Li can assist in refining this preface.
Not long after, Jun died. King Jin Guang reappointed him as a scholar in Yangzhou and asked him to collaborate with other Confucian scholars on a book titled "Jiangdu Collection of Rites." He then asked Hui to write a preface, in which he wrote:
...... (The content of the preface written by Hui should be here, but the original text is missing, so it cannot be translated) ......
The practice of rituals has truly reached its zenith! It is in harmony with the rhythm of the universe, shining as universally as the sun and moon. Its origin can be traced back to the era of the Three Emperors and Five Sovereigns, and it encompasses four fundamental moral principles. Long before people settled in trees and caves, the concepts of rituals were already taking root; from the divination inscriptions on turtle shells and animal bones, and the records of bird footprints, the practice of rituals gradually took shape. Although the essence of rituals is fundamentally simple, not merely limited to sacrificial offerings like jade and silk, from the establishment of the Xia Dynasty and the continuation of the Shang Dynasty, we can see its importance. Officials in charge of ancestral temple sacrifices and officials in charge of court etiquette are fundamental to the stability and harmony of the country, where both humans and gods are revered. Without rituals, the noble virtues of morality and righteousness cannot be realized, and in interpersonal relations, peace cannot be attained without rituals. Just as a seal is used to prevent forgery, it is far more complex than mere farming and planting, but serves to prevent deception, rather than merely for superficial embellishment!
Since book burning and burying of scholars during the Qin Dynasty, and during the Han and Wei dynasties, thanks to the profound insights of Shusun Tong and the extensive knowledge of Gao Tanglong, talented individuals proficient in etiquette came forth like the wind. Those responsible for establishing etiquette had become quite comprehensive, with various branches interconnected. The emperor sat on the throne, handling state affairs, establishing calendars, and perfecting the legal system. Whether in places bustling with carriages, horses, and letters, or in regions blessed by rain and dew, the influence of etiquette could be felt. The court searched for classics everywhere, from the east to the west, consulting a wealth of literary resources, conducting grand sacrificial ceremonies on Mount Taishan, and hosting solemn ceremonies on Mount Lingtai. The system of rites and music was refined, incorporating the etiquette systems of various dynasties. The Grand Preceptor, Grand Commandant, Governor of Yangzhou, and Prince of Jin wielded the nation's treasures, embodied noble virtues, fostering education and nurturing talent, making great contributions to the country. They resided in the Zhou and Shao regions, their accomplishments extended throughout the He and Chu regions, skilled in both civil and military affairs, and exceptionally versatile, donned armor to guard the borders and donned court attire to govern the regions, recruiting talent and building establishments.
In addition, they also developed the Six Arts, gathered various talents, inherited the traditions of the Jixia Academy, and restored the literary style of the Sishui region, with no secret left unexplored and no problem left unsolved. As for those ornate decorations and elegant prose, the legal codes, and the Confucian-Mohist debates, in various academies and the Hanlin Academy, in various academic discussions, in official memorials, and in the medical cases of imperial physicians, all of these have been carefully studied and analyzed. Since the nature of rituals and language will change with the development of the times, the content will also increase or decrease. The records of "Ming Tang" and "Qu Tai," the discussions of "Nan Gong" and "Dong Guan," the explanations of Zheng Xuan, Wang Su, Xu Guang, and He Xun, as well as the comments of Cui Hao, Qiao Zhou, He Yan, and Yu Chan, although there are many classics, the essence is quite scarce. Therefore, in my spare time, after fulfilling my official duties, I learned from the experience of predecessors, carefully studied a large number of classics, distilling the essence and discerning the true from the false, and finally completed this "Jiangdu Collection of Rituals." The entire work comprises twelve volumes and one hundred and twenty scrolls, with the number of scrolls taken from the numbers of twelve months in a year and thirty days in each month, to reflect the movements of the stars, which includes important rituals of the state and the army, as well as various norms of human relations. In the past, officials from Guimeng, Linghu, and other places, as well as princes from Suiyang, Huanyang, and other regions, have also imitated the emperor's ceremonies, but there are no records of this in historical texts. Therefore, I dedicate this book to you, hoping you will recognize the value of this work. This "Jiangdu Collection of Rituals" not only surpasses earlier works but also stands out among previous texts. By the grace of the esteemed, I have been able to travel to famous mountains and rivers. I take the liberty of writing this book to convey my respect.
After Emperor Yang of Sui ascended the throne, he ordered the Assistant Minister of the Imperial Library, Lu Congdian, the Imperial Scholar Chu Liang, Ouyang Xun, and others to assist Duke of Yue Yang Su in compiling the "Book of Wei." However, when Yang Su died, the project came to a halt. Later, Hui was appointed as the Imperial Scholar of Jingzhao County. The Yang Xuangang brothers valued him greatly and frequently interacted with him. After Yang Xuangang's rebellion failed, anyone associated with him was implicated. Because Hui was friends with Yang Xuangang, the emperor was displeased with him. Following the emperor's wishes, the relevant department demoted Hui to the position of a minor registrar in Weiding County, Xihai Commandery. Hui felt deeply dissatisfied and died of illness in Longxi.
Du Zhengxuan, courtesy name Shenhui, was from Jingzhao. Eight generations prior, Du Man served as an official in Shizhao and later settled in Ye City. Their family had a literary tradition spanning several generations. Du Zhengxuan was exceptionally intelligent and knowledgeable. His brothers, all under twenty years old, gained great reputation in the Sanhe region for their excellent writing. During the Kaihuang period, he passed the imperial examination and excelled in the examination essays at the Ministry of Personnel. Du Zhengxuan answered questions with the speed of a machine gun and wrote with divine inspiration. At that time, Yang Su was very proud and looked down on others, but Du Zhengxuan held his ground in the debate, which made Yang Su very unhappy. After a long time, Linyi presented a white parrot as tribute. Yang Su immediately summoned Du Zhengxuan and sent messengers to hurry him along. When Du Zhengxuan arrived, Yang Su immediately asked him to write poetry. Du Zhengxuan was under pressure at the time, but quickly completed it. Yang Su was surprised to see that the piece required no revisions. He then had Du Zhengxuan write over a dozen different types of articles, all of which were quickly completed with elegant prose and clear structure. Yang Su exclaimed, "This is a true scholar; I can't hold a candle to him!" He then appointed him as a military officer to Prince Jin, later promoted to the office of Prince Yuzhang, and ultimately passed away while serving in that role. His younger brother was named Du Zhengcang.
Du Zhengzang, style name Weishan, was especially keen on learning and excelled in writing articles. Before the age of twenty, he passed the imperial examination and was appointed as a military aide in Chunzhou. Later, he became the magistrate of Xiayi County. During the Daye era, his knowledge was extensive, and he and his two brothers were highly regarded by the court for their excellent writing skills, praised by the people at the time. He authored over a hundred works, including inscriptions, elegies, memorials, praises, poems, and essays. He also wrote a book called "The Style of Writing," which proved invaluable to later scholars. It was regarded as the standard for writing, and even the overseas Goryeo and Baekje kingdoms studied this book, calling it "Du's New Book."
Du Jingzhao, style name Chang Dezhi, was knowledgeable and talented, especially in writing. He held the position of record keeper for the Prince of Qin. After the death of the Prince, he passed through the Forbidden City and wrote a five-character poem with mournful yet grand language. People at the time highly valued this poem. He also wrote an essay called "On Brothers," which discussed principles that were commendable.
There was a man named Yin Shi in Hejian, who was well-versed and wrote well. He gained a strong reputation in his youth. During the Renshou period, he became the record keeper for the Prince of Han, who highly esteemed him. Later, when the Prince of Han fell from power, Yin Shi committed suicide. His two brothers, Zhengqing and Yanqing, were also very talented and had a great reputation in the world.
In Hejian, there was a man named Liu Shanjing, who was particularly skilled in writing. He served as a literary assistant and a royal secretary, and wrote the "Choude Biography" in thirty volumes, the "Zhu Liu Genealogy" in thirty volumes, and the "Guide to the Four Tones" in one volume, which have been passed down through the ages.
Zu Junyan, a native of Fanyang, was the son of Xiaozheng, the Minister of Works during the Qi dynasty. He was of short stature and spoke awkwardly, but possessed considerable talent and knowledge. In the late period of the Sui dynasty, he became a literary assistant in Dongping County. The county was captured by Zhai Rang and fell under the control of Li Mi. Li Mi respected him and appointed him as a record keeper. All the military documents were written by him. Eventually, Li Mi was defeated, and Zu Junyan was executed by Wang Shichong.
A native of Kuaiji, Kong Deshao was quite talented and held the position of county magistrate in Jingcheng. Following Dou Jiande's declaration of kingship, he appointed Kong Deshao as the Minister of the Central Secretariat, specifically responsible for drafting official documents. After Dou Jiande's downfall, Kong Deshao was killed.
Liu Bin, a native of Nanyang, who had notable literary talent, served as an assistant to the magistrate in Xindu County. Dou Jiande appointed him as a secretary in the Central Secretariat. After Dou Jiande's downfall, he became Liu Ta's deputy secretary and fled with him to the Turks, and his whereabouts later became unknown.
According to historical records, Emperor Wen of Wei famously said, "Most literati throughout history do not pay attention to their conduct, and few can establish themselves based on reputation and integrity." And this holds true! Individuals like Wang Zhou, Yu Chuo, Cui Nao, and Xiaoyi are either arrogant due to their talents and are indifferent to worldly matters, or even with their considerable knowledge, they have unfortunate fates, low official positions, feel depressed, resentful, and aimless, living a carefree and reckless life, holding officials and nobles in contempt. Therefore, they often find themselves abandoned due to their recklessness and offend others due to their hatred of evil, and this isn't limited to just Zhao Yi from Hanyang or Mi Heng from Pingyuan! As a result, they are often left with regrets and remorse, rarely able to achieve a good ending. However, their knowledge spans ancient and modern times, their writings are both magnificent and exquisite, like a branch from Denglin and a beautiful jade from Mount Kun. During the unification of the Sui Dynasty, there were many talented individuals, but only about a dozen stood out. The Zhengxuan brothers were among them, shining together as exceptional brothers!
