Du Du, who was also known by his courtesy name Jiya, was from Duling in Chang'an. His grandfather, Du Yannian, held the position of Grand Master of Remonstrance during the reign of Emperor Xuan. Du Du was knowledgeable and talented from a young age, but he did not pay much attention to details, which led the villagers to regard him with disdain. He lived in Meiyang County and had a contentious relationship with the county magistrate. He often asked the magistrate for favors, but the magistrate always refused, resulting in a bitter feud between them. In a fit of rage, the magistrate had Du Du arrested and sent him to the capital. At that time, the Grand Marshal Wu Han had just passed away, and Emperor Guangwu ordered some scholars to write elegies in his honor. Du Du, while in prison, also wrote one, which was beautifully written and extolled the emperor's virtues. As a result, Emperor Guangwu rewarded him with cloth and silk and released him.
Du Du believed that the Guanzhong region, with its mountains and rivers and as the former capital of the previous emperor, should not be relocated to Luoyang. Therefore, he wrote a memorial titled "On the Relocation of the Capital" and presented it to the emperor. In the memorial, he wrote: "I have heard that true understanding comes after understanding once more. Your Majesty, you already know what I want to say, so I will keep it brief and avoid elaborating. The Shang Dynasty moved its capital to Bo for thriftiness; King Cheng of the Zhou Dynasty established Luoyang as the capital because of its superior geographical location. Throughout history, the choice of capital cities by different dynasties has varied. Wise rulers consider the issue differently, and the strategies of hegemonic rulers have their own merits. While the strategies to strengthen the country may differ, the methods are diverse: some abandon perilous locations in favor of more suitable, flat areas for their capitals; some rely on mountains and rivers to annex six states; some, after becoming prosperous, want to return to their hometown but are attacked unexpectedly; some adopt strategies of surprise victory, like Liu Bei marching from Shu Han and quickly achieving victory; some knowingly commit wrongdoings, occupying strategic locations for a long time, only to fail in the end. I do not wish to make hasty judgments. I have privately studied the practices of Sima Xiangru and Yang Xiong in using fu essays to advise rulers, greatly admiring them, so I have also written one titled "On the Relocation of the Capital" and now present it together."
In the 18th year of Jianwu, on the Jia Chen day of the second month, the Emperor rode to Luoyang and then went to inspect the Western Mountains. The journey went smoothly, passing through the Hangu Pass, inspecting the terrain of Xiaoshan and Minshan, and planning the strategic sites in Longshu and Shu. In the third month of the Ding You year, the Emperor arrived in Chang'an. He began to renovate the palace, ordered the officials to fast and bathe, and respectfully worship the imperial mausoleum. The Emperor gazed at the mausoleum, filled with nostalgia for his ancestors and reflections on the prosperity of the Han Dynasty. Later, the Emperor took a boat tour of the Wei River all the way to the Jing River. The grand procession stretched from Qishan to the riverbank, with the Emperor also offering sacrifices and conducting ceremonies in Binzhou. In the fourth month, the Emperor returned to Luoyang.
The following year, the Emperor ordered the reconstruction of the Hangu Pass and the construction of the Dajia Palace, the Six Kings' Residence, and the Gaoche Stables in Chang'an. He also renovated the eastern city gate, built bridges over the Jing River and Wei River, and repaired many palaces. The Emperor gazed at Baling and the Chan River to the east, Kunming Lake to the west, and ascended Changping Mountain to the north, inspecting Longshou Mountain, Weiyang Palace, Pingle Palace, and Jianzhang Palace.
At that time, the people in Shandong were anxious that the capital had moved to Chang'an, fearing that enemies might block the Hangu Pass. A guest analyzed with me, "The water quality in Chang'an is poor and cannot accommodate so many ships; furthermore, there is not much water in Luoyang, how can it accommodate so many people? Xianyang is a strategic location that cannot be left empty for a long time, otherwise it will give the enemies an opportunity." I explained to him the prosperity of the Han Dynasty and the long-term strategic significance of holding Yongzhou, along with the reasons the state couldn't prioritize Chang'an at that time. I said:
Once upon a time, the powerful Qin Dynasty began expanding everywhere, occupying places like Qishan and Yongzhou. The nation was prosperous and its population was large, but ultimately, it fell due to tyranny and rampant bloodshed. Heaven took notice and sent the wise Han Dynasty to take its place. The founding of the Han Dynasty was largely due to the efforts of Emperor Gaozu Liu Bang. He slew the White Snake, stationed troops in Black Clouds, arranged the Five Stars in the East Well, held the Gan Jiang sword, and rebuked the tyrannical Qin. He crossed the sea and scaled Kunlun, shining brightly, defeated Xiang Yu's army, ultimately saving the people and restoring peace to the Si and Yi river regions. Later, Liu Jing suggested moving the capital to Chang'an. Emperor Wu of Han, Liu Heng, inherited his ancestors' foundation and ruled with a focus on culture. He lived a simple life, not concerned with lavish food or clothing. He encouraged the people to farm, leading by example in hard work and thriftiness. "If beauty offends the eye, it's not worth having, and the sounds of Zheng and Wei are just noise," he disliked luxurious attire and decadent music; "treacherous officials are not allowed in court, and cunning trinkets are not sold in the market," he shunned treacherous officials and prohibited the sale of clever trinkets in the market. Therefore, under his rule, the Han Dynasty enjoyed stability, with minimal use of punishments. During the reigns of Emperor Xiaowen and Emperor Jing of Han, the country became even more prosperous, and this glorious era continued to be passed down.
This passage recounts how the Han Dynasty was established following the fall of the Qin Dynasty, with Liu Bang defeating Xiang Yu and establishing the Han Dynasty. Later, Emperor Gaozu Liu Heng governed diligently with benevolence and righteousness, leading to the prosperity of the country, which thrived until the reign of Emperor Jing. "If beauty offends the eye, it's not worth having, and the sounds of Zheng and Wei are just noise; treacherous officials are not allowed in court, and cunning trinkets are not sold in the market" clearly illustrates Emperor Gaozu's governing philosophy, which can be summarized as advocating frugality, opposing extravagance, promoting virtuous officials, and rejecting treachery.
It is said that during that time, Emperor Wu of Han, thanks to a full treasury, began to set ambitious strategic goals, seeking to settle old scores with the Xiongnu Chanyu and to quell the resentment among the cities.
So he ordered the selection of elite cavalry and appointed Wei Qing as the general. Wei Qing was brave and skilled in battle, and the army moved swiftly, like a meteor, deep into the territory of the Xiongnu, disrupting the deployment of the Xiongnu court, sweeping through the northern desert region, capturing the Qilian Mountains, defeating the Chanyu, and slaughtering many barbarians. They set fire to the felt tents of the Xiongnu, captured the Chanyu's wife, Lady Wang, burned the treasures of the Kangju Kingdom, killed many Xiongnu soldiers, seized a large amount of loot, and drove away the mules, horses, and camels, as well as the Wanshi and Jiaoji horses.
The Han army expanded its territory, with all the lands and mountains included in the map, striking fear across the land. Emperor Wu of Han established four counties, stationed in Dunhuang, and incorporated the surrounding vassal states into the map, with one county governing a certain area of land. In the north, marquisates were set up, and in the west, a Protector of the Qiang was established to suppress the Di, Qiang, Ang, and Zuo tribes. They attacked the Wuhuan in the east, defeated the Heishui, controlled Guo Town in the south, and conquered the Qiangyue. Those tattooed barbarians were killed in great numbers, with their blood flowing like rivers and bodies floating in the sea. Counties were established all the way to Jinan, and even reached Zhuyai, with prefectures extending to Huangzhi in the southeast.
The Han army also seized a large amount of treasures: ivory, rhinoceros horns, conch shells, glass, tortoiseshell, and ornamental ivory, and so on. Those countries that originally wore coarse cloth, lived together in caves, and drank from the same river all bowed down and submitted, not daring to resist.
If it weren't for the Han Dynasty's robust national strength and fertile lands, and its ability to manage internal and external affairs, how could such great achievements have been made? From the founding of Emperor Gaozu of Han to Emperor Xiaohui, Emperor Wen of Han, Emperor Jing of Han, Emperor Wu of Han, Emperor Xuan of Han, Emperor Yuan of Han, and then to Emperor Cheng of Han, Emperor Ai of Han, until Emperor Ping of Han, experiencing eleven generations of emperors over more than three hundred years, the country's rise and fall, and the fluctuations in its power, yet none could stray from the Guanzhong region, nor abandon Xianyang. The imperial palace, ancestral temples, and tombs are continuous and magnificent, breathtaking; since the times of Fu Xi and Shen Nong, such a prosperous era has never been seen. "Palaces, temples, mountains and tombs, grand and magnificent, worth thinking and honoring; since the times of Fu Xi and Shen Nong, such a glorious era has never been seen."
Speaking of the land of Yongzhou, it was originally a battleground where emperors laid their foundations and achieved their hegemony, a place for battles! "Yu Gong" has said that the fields here are of the highest quality. For thousands of miles, it resembles a sea on land, with fertile plains and low-lying areas. Various crops grow well, and mulberry and hemp grow luxuriantly. It is close to the Nanshan Mountains, surrounded by the Jing River and Wei River, with a great variety of wildlife. Nanmu, sandalwood, zelkova, as well as various vegetables and fruits, all grow full and robust. The fields are irrigated by canals, and the land is nourished by springs, gradually forming rivers, with rice that grows tall and robust. The land here is fertile, and an acre of land can fetch a gold coin! The fields are connected, and the trees are lush. While it requires effort to clear and replant the land, the harvest is substantial.
Yongzhou not only has rich resources but also boasts a superior geographical location, surrounded by mountains on all sides, easy to defend and hard to conquer. To the west, it is bordered by Longshan and Shudu; to the south, it connects to Hanzhong; to the north, it controls the valley pass; and to the east, it is blocked by steep cliffs. The passes and city walls are formidable, blocking the roads to Shandong; defenses are set up at the Qianshui River and Longshan to control the Western tribes; guarding the Baixie Road prevents entry from Lingnan; blocking the river prevents invasion from the north. The waters of the Jing River and Wei River flow into the Yellow River, with boats of all sizes coming and going endlessly; to the east leads to the sea, to the west transports silk; the echoes of the north and south resonate here, creating harmony and unity across the realm. The city towers soar a hundred feet into the sky, guarding important passes. The passes and bridges hold strategic significance because of their challenging terrain. Just rolling a stone can block thousands of enemies; waving a spear can cause the entire army to collapse. This place has convenient terrain and brave, skilled soldiers, suitable for both defense and attacking distant lands. Soldiers are easy to place, and the people do not have to worry about being invaded. With rich resources and a large population, all twelve provinces can be supported. Just think, if you want to dominate the world, occupying this place first will make it easier; if you want to establish a prosperous government, you can accumulate a large amount of wealth; if you want to wage war, you can have a strong army; if you want to govern the country, you can ensure the people live and work in peace; if you want to seize power, it will be difficult to be eliminated; if you want to attack, you can win every battle; if you want to defend, you can be as secure as a fortress. Therefore, Yongzhou is truly a paradise for emperors and an invaluable asset for defending the nation!
In the late Eastern Han Dynasty, the realm was in turmoil. Those who usurped power and positions, relying on their influence, acted with impunity, but they couldn't bring the realm to its knees. Emperor Guangwu, Liu Xiu, participated in the campaign against the Red Eyebrow Army at the age of eighteen, but unfortunately, he did not achieve victory then. Later, the Red Eyebrow Army created widespread disorder, warlords fought everywhere, and the outcome was still uncertain.
At this time, Liu Xiu stepped forward. Like a hero destined for greatness, he was extremely brave and received help from the people and immortals. He declared himself emperor in Gao Yi, led his army in all directions, with his strategists renowned for their cunning and his soldiers valiant and battle-hardened. Wherever they went, the enemies were defeated one after another, as effortless as filleting fish. Liu Xiu's commands resonated throughout Shandong, and the banks of the Yellow River shook. He personally donned his armor and wielded his sword, leading the army to conquer the north and south, and finally unified the country, ending the chaos and granting the people a chance to live in peace, restoring the rule of the Han Dynasty.
Just as the country was settling down and the scars of war had yet to heal, the emperor grew increasingly concerned about border security. He believed the border defenses were insufficient, and before he could effectively govern the capital, he was already thinking about how to pacify Yongzhou. The emperor personally worked hard, promoted famous generals, expanded the border territories, employed military might to intimidate the barbarians, and extended the Han Dynasty's renown across the seas. Those tattooed tribal leaders, the unruly nations of Southeast Asia, and the unyielding neighbors to the northwest all came forth to pay tribute, seeking to become vassal states of the Han Dynasty.
Although the emperor has achieved such great accomplishments, he remains humble and cautious, never arrogant or complacent. He believes that it is better to pacify his own people than to conquer worthless barbarians, to safeguard crops instead of developing desolate land, and to solve problems nearby rather than provide distant rescue. Now the country is thriving, creating a harmonious atmosphere everywhere. The emperor only wants to maintain fairness, be down-to-earth, and wholeheartedly protect his people. Anything beneficial to the country, the emperor will embrace. Why? Because nothing can expand indefinitely, and no principle can be implemented limitlessly; everything has its limits. Therefore, the emperor always remembers the lessons of the past, stays vigilant even when the country is strong, and remains prepared.
Friends say, sharp weapons cannot be idle for a long time, and the country should not forget the west capital. Why hold on to the tranquility and ease of Luoyang?
This makes sense, just like my family. Our ancestors were glorious, but because of my poor eyesight, I haven't been to the capital in over twenty years. My grandfather, the great general Xin Wuxian, became famous for his military skills. I often sigh, "The Du family is known for culture and good governance, but I don't have the ability to be a good official; the Xin family is renowned for upholding justice and military skills, but I am timid." Our family thrived for five generations, but has declined with me!
Ah, how unpredictable the world is. My sister married into the Ma family of Fufeng. In the third year of Jianchu, General Ma Fang invited me to be a lieutenant in the expedition against the Western Qiang, and I fell in battle at Shegu Mountain.
Throughout my lifetime, I wrote a total of eighteen pieces, including fu, elegies, condolences, letters, praises, "Seven-character poems," "Women's Admonitions," and some miscellaneous essays. I also penned fifteen essays titled "Ming Shilun."
My son, Du Shuo, is a hero who became wealthy through business.
Let's talk about Wang Lun, courtesy name Wenshan, from Yunyang, Fengyi. During the reign of Wang Mang, he became an official through his father's connections, and later fled to Hexi, becoming the Left Guard for Dou Rong. During the Jianwu era, he became the magistrate of Xinji County. He was highly skilled in literature and wrote poems, prose, inscriptions, and letters, totaling twenty-six pieces.
By the way, in the later years of Wang Mang, Shi Cenzi, courtesy name Xiaol, from Pei, also became famous for his writings. Wang Mang appointed him as a court official, and he wrote eulogies, elegies, "Fu Shen," and "Shuo Ji," totaling four pieces.
Xia Gong, courtesy name Jinggong, from Meng County in Liang, was well-versed in "Han Poetry" and "Mengshi Yi," and had thousands of disciples when teaching. In the later years of Wang Mang, bandits ran rampant and attacked counties. Xia Gong, relying on his grace and reputation, gained the people's trust, led them in resistance, and single-handedly preserved peace. Emperor Guangwu, after ascending the throne, appreciated his loyalty and courage, appointing him as a court official, and later promoting him to the position of Taishan Commandant. He united the people and was deeply loved by them.
Xia Gong excelled in writing and wrote prose, eulogies, poems, and "Encouraging Learning," totaling twenty pieces. He died in office at the age of forty-nine, and many Confucian scholars posthumously honored him as "Xuanming Jun."
His son, Xia Ya, studied the family business at a young age and wrote prose, eulogies, commendations, and elegies, totaling forty pieces. He was recommended as a filial and upright official, but passed away early. The villagers referred to him as "Mr. Wende."
Fu Yi, courtesy name Wuzhong, from Maoling, Fufeng, studied poetry and prose at a young age. During the Yongping period, he studied classical texts in Pingling, and then wrote the poem "Di Zhi Shi," which reads:
Colleagues, now is the time to work hard! Time flies; how can we stop? I serve the country, but my energy is limited. Facing these weak enemies, I don't know what to do.
My ancestors were prominent during the Yin and Shang periods, inheriting and carrying forward the achievements of their ancestors. Wuding revitalized the Shang Dynasty, and they were all key figures of the state, governing the myriad states.
Our family has been building virtue and doing good for generations, up until my father, who upheld our family's good traditions and continued the virtues of our ancestors. During the mid-Han Dynasty, talents emerged one after another, and our family prospered even more, bringing honor to our family name.
As for me, I am lacking talent and feel ashamed of my ancestors' achievements, fearing that I might tarnish our family's reputation. Who can help me change the current situation and start afresh? Who can help me dispel confusion and ignorance?
Our ancestors left teachings, and I study them diligently. They taught me to work hard and learn widely. Therefore, together with my friends, I follow the teachings of our ancestors, working tirelessly and never slacking off.
The country's major policies and various rules and regulations are not easy to formulate and implement, nor can they be easily predicted. Farmers work hard to harvest crops; who can enjoy a comfortable life without hard work?
Dealing with two matters has drained my energy, like walking a long road with no end in sight; failing to achieve both goals has left me mentally exhausted, like listening to multiple opinions at once, which only causes more confusion.
Oh, gentlemen, don’t just chase after comfort and pleasure! Time passes like flowing water; where is there time for leisure? If you keep putting things off, how can you get anything done? Persevere and maintain effort from beginning to end.
Because Emperor Zhang of Han, Liu Da, did not seek talents diligently, many talented individuals remained hidden, so Shi Yi wrote "Seven Admonitions" to offer advice.
During the Jianchu period, Emperor Su of Han summoned scholars extensively and appointed Shi Yi as a historian of the Lantai, later promoting him to a Langzhong, responsible for proofreading books alongside Ban Gu and Jia Kui. Shi Yi greatly admired the achievements of Emperor Ming of Han, who ruled during the Han Dynasty, but at the time there were no temple hymns. So, he imitated "Qing Miao" and wrote ten "Xianzong Songs" to present to the court, which boosted his reputation at court.
General Ma Fang, who commanded the Chariots and Cavalry, was influential and invited Shi Yi to serve as the army's Sima, treating him like a mentor and friend. Later, the Ma family fell from power, and he was dismissed from office and returned home.
In the first year of Yongyuan, the Cavalry General, Dou Xian, once again invited Shi Yi to be the chief recorder, and Cui Yun as the chief clerk. After Dou Xian was promoted to Grand General, he appointed Shi Yi as the Sima and Ban Gu as the Central Guard. Dou Xian's mansion was filled with talent, and for a while, they were the most outstanding in literary talent, surpassing all others in the world.
Huang Xiang died young, leaving behind a collection of poems, prose, elegies, praises, blessings, as well as "Seven Excitements" and Lianzhu, a total of twenty-eight works. Huang Xiang, whose courtesy name was Wenqiang, was from Anlu, Hubei. When he was nine years old, he lost his mother, missed her greatly, and was so thin that he could barely survive, earning praise from the people in his village for his filial piety. At the age of twelve, the Prefect Liu Hu heard of his deeds and summoned him to the mansion, appointing him as a filial son, who showed him great affection and respect. Huang Xiang came from a poor family, with no servants or maids at home; he took care of everything himself, working tirelessly while always serving his father with dedication. He also extensively studied various books, was well-versed in various fields of knowledge, and was celebrated in the capital as "the unrivaled youth of Jiangxia."
He was initially appointed as a Langzhong. In the first year of Yuanhe, Emperor Suzong summoned Huang Xiang to the Dongguan to read books he had never encountered before. Later, when Huang Xiang returned to the capital after taking leave to visit his family, he happened upon a banquet hosted by the Prince of Qiancheng at the Zhongshan Mansion, where the Emperor was also present. The Emperor summoned Huang Xiang to his side, pointing at him and saying to the princes, "This is the 'unrivaled youth of Jiangxia!'" Everyone present regarded him with admiration. Later, the Emperor called Huang Xiang to the Anfu Hall to discuss state affairs and appointed him as a Shangshu Lang. Huang Xiang often spoke candidly and advised on court matters, highlighting the court's successes and failures, and the Emperor rewarded him more and more. He often lived alone on the platform of the palace, never leaving the palace gates day and night, and when the Emperor heard about it, he held him in even higher regard.
In the fourth year of Yongyuan, he was appointed as the Left Minister. Even though his achievements warranted a promotion, Emperor He thought he was useful and bestowed him with higher titles and ranks.
Six years later, he was promoted all the way to the position of Minister of Personnel. Later, he was appointed as the Governor of Dongjun. He wrote a letter of resignation, saying: "I come from Jianghuai, humble and poor, merely an ordinary and simple person, with mediocre knowledge and abilities, nothing to boast about. Thanks to this peaceful and prosperous era and the good deeds of my ancestors, I was summoned by the court at a young age and promoted all the way to the highest position. I truly have no accomplishments to repay the court's kindness; I have done my best to serve the court, it is my duty. Never did I expect to be promoted to such an important position; this esteemed position is far removed from the capital. I have heard that positions should be assigned based on merit to ensure effective governance; titles should be given based on accomplishments to assign the wise and the foolish to their proper places. My qualifications are mediocre; I was just a scholar in my youth, and managing a prefecture, handling political affairs, is truly beyond my capabilities. I worry that my abilities are inadequate and that I might fail to live up to the emperor's expectations. Moreover, the role of Minister of Personnel is both highly confidential and prestigious, and I am not suited for it in the long run. Upon receiving the imperial decree, I felt overwhelmed and uncertain about how to proceed. I am now in my prime, able to serve the court. I respectfully request the emperor's permission to remain in minor posts at court, taking care of some minor duties in the palace, so that I can fulfill my modest wish, to die without regrets; even if I become dust, I will find contentment." The emperor also appreciated his abilities, considering him experienced and knowledgeable in court affairs, so he retained him as Minister of Personnel, promoted him, and granted him three hundred thousand coins. Since then, he managed the court's confidential affairs, deeply trusted and valued by the emperor, and he diligently handled political affairs, treating the country's affairs and the people's welfare as if they were his own family matters.
In the twelfth year of Yongyuan, someone from the two counties of Dongping and Qinghe reported and accused Qing Zhongliao and others, which implicated nearly a thousand people. After conducting a careful investigation and making separate reports, many individuals were spared from being implicated. Whenever difficult cases appeared in the counties, he consistently sought to impose lighter punishments, valuing the lives of the people and always thinking about their welfare. He was also proficient in border affairs, capable of managing military and government affairs in a reasonable and orderly manner. The emperor recognized his diligence and rewarded him on multiple occasions. When he fell ill, the emperor sent people to visit him and provided him with medicine. During his tenure, he recommended and promoted many talented individuals, earning the emperor's favor, but also drawing criticism from others who claimed he was too favored.
In the year 89 AD, he was transferred to be the Prefect of Wei County. Wei County had previously maintained both official and public fields, always cultivated together with the people, producing several thousand piculs of grain each year. But he believed that "the Field Order states that merchants cannot engage in farming" and "the Royal System states that officials cannot cultivate land." As a result, he distributed these fields to the people and encouraged them to farm. That year happened to be hit by a flood, so he distributed his salary and rewards to the poor as relief, and wealthy families also donated grain, aiding the government in assisting the disaster victims, ultimately saving all those affected. Later, he was dismissed due to the flood, and a few months later, he passed away at home.
He left behind five works, which included essays, annotations, memorials, letters, and decrees. His son, Liu Qiong, is recorded in a separate biography. Liu Yi, son of Liu Xiao, Prince Jing of Beihai, was initially titled as the Marquis of Pingwang but was stripped of his title during the Yongyuan period due to offenses. From a young age, Liu Yi displayed exceptional literary talent and eloquence. In 114 AD, he submitted twelve essays titled "Han De Lun" and "Xian Lun." At that time, Liu Zhen, Deng Dan, Yin Dui, and Ma Rong jointly recommended him, and Emperor An admired him and granted him thirty thousand coins, appointing him as a court official.
Li You, whose courtesy name was Bo Ren, was from Lu County, Guanghan. He was well-known for his literary talent from a young age. During the reign of Emperor He, the Minister of Ceremonies Jia Kui recommended Li You, comparing him to the style of Sima Xiangru and Yang Xiong. As a result, he was summoned to the Eastern Observation to compose rhapsodies by imperial decree and was appointed as the official historian of the Lantai. He gradually rose through the ranks, and during the reign of Emperor An, he served as Counselor and was ordered to collaborate on the "Han Chronicles" with the Palace Attendant Liu Zhen and others. Later, when the Emperor deposed the Crown Prince and made him the Prince of Jiyin, Li You submitted a memorial advising against it. After Emperor Shun ascended to the throne, Li You was promoted to the position of the magistrate of Le'an. He died at the age of eighty-three, leaving behind twenty-eight works, including poems, essays, inscriptions, elegies, praises, "Seven Laments," and "Elegies."
Li Sheng, who was from the same county as Li You, also had literary talent. He served as an Attendant in the Eastern Observation and wrote several dozen poems, elegies, praises, and essays.
Su Shun, also known as Xiao Shan, was from Baling in Jingzhao. He was renowned for his talent during the reigns of Emperor He and Emperor An. He practiced the art of living well, withdrew for personal cultivation, and only emerged to serve as an official in his later years. He was appointed as a Junior Attendant and died while in office, leaving behind sixteen works, including poems, essays, elegies, and miscellaneous writings.
During that time, the Sanyuan region was home to many talented individuals. Cao Zhong, the Scholar, from Fufeng County, was also talented and had written four works, including elegies, books, and essays.
There was also Cao Shuo, whose birthplace is unknown, and he composed four pieces titled "Han Odes."
Liu Zhen, also known as Liu Bao, was from Caiyang, Nanyang. He loved studying from a young age. During the Yongchu era, he became an official historian. Empress Dowager Deng ordered him to collaborate on the collation of the texts in the Dongguan Collection with Liu Gao, Ma Rong, and the scholars of the Five Classics, including the Five Classics, biographies of various scholars, and academic works, to correct errors and edit the texts. In the first year of Yongning, the Empress Dowager ordered Liu Zhen and Liu Gao to write biographies of famous ministers since the Jianwu era. Later, Liu Zhen was promoted to Shizhong and Yueqi Xiaowei. In the fourth year of Yanguang, he was appointed as Zongzheng. The following year, he was promoted to Weiwei and eventually died in office. He left behind seven eulogies, poems, and connected prose. He also wrote thirty articles of "Shi Ming" to explain the names of various things.
Ge Gong, also known as Yuanfu, was from Ningling, Liangguo. During the reign of Emperor He, he became famous for his writing skills. He had a generous and brave personality, surpassing ordinary people. During the Yongchu era of Emperor An, he was recognized for his filial piety and integrity, serving as Deputy Minister of Rites, presenting four suggestions in his memorial, and later appointed as the magistrate of Lingyin County. He was later summoned to the Ministry of War, but did not take up the position due to illness. He was recommended by the province as a talented person and served as the magistrate of Linfen County. During his tenure in these two counties, he achieved effective governance. He left behind twelve works, including essays, memorials, inscriptions, eulogies, and letters.
Wang Yi, also known as Shushi, was from Yicheng, Nanjun. During the Yuanchu era, he was recommended as an official in charge of finances and served as a Textual Scholar. During the reign of Emperor Shun, he served as a Shizhong. His "Chu Ci Zhangju" has endured through the ages. His body of work includes twenty-one pieces, comprising essays, eulogies, letters, discussions, and other miscellaneous writings. He also composed one hundred and twenty-three poems in the Han style.
Zi Yanshou, also known by his courtesy name Wenkao, was very talented. When he was young, he traveled to the State of Lu and composed the "Lingguang Palace Fu." Later, Cai Yong also attempted to write on this topic but left it unfinished. After seeing Zi Yanshou's work, he was so impressed that he ceased writing. Zi Yanshou once had a bad dream and felt very uneasy, so he wrote "Meng Fu" as a warning to himself. He later drowned at the young age of just over twenty.
Cui Qi, style name Ziwei, was from Anping in Zhuo Commandery and was a relative of Cui Yuan, the prime minister of Jibei. When he was young, he traveled to the capital and gained fame for his exceptional writing. He was initially recommended as a filial and incorrupt official, eventually serving as a Lang official. Liang Ji, the magistrate of Henan, learned of his talent and sought to befriend him. Liang Ji engaged in numerous illegal and unscrupulous activities, and Cui Qi repeatedly cited examples of success and failure from both ancient and modern times to counsel him, but Liang Ji did not listen. Consequently, Cui Qi composed "Waiqi Zhen." The article begins:
Ah, those relatives, each one wielding immense power and basking in glory! In ancient times, Emperor Shun was revered for his noble virtues, and the world rallied around him; the Zhou Dynasty thrived due to the virtuous deeds of the three empresses, and the rise of the Shang Dynasty also had the credit of Lady Xian. King Xuan would rise early each morning, and Queen Jiang would voluntarily take off her hairpin to show humility; Duke Huan of Qi loved music, but Lady Wei never interfered in court affairs. These serve as examples of how to assist a monarch with etiquette, employing benevolence and virtue. All of them were talented, actively offered counsel against wrongdoing, and prioritized righteousness and integrity.
However, later on, the situation changed, and gradually problems arose. The relationships among the palace concubines became chaotic, and the hierarchical system fell apart. The disaster of the Jin State started with the favoritism shown to Liji; the family disputes originated from the chaos of hens crowing and hens taking charge. Those women who were arrogant and only concerned with their own enjoyment blinded the emperor. They bullied their elders, harmed their relatives, were jealous of each other, and even led to the tragic deaths of concubines. Those in power were not virtuous; instead, they became powerful ministers, enjoying wealth and luxury, living in excess. Poets wrote satirical poems about them, yet they showed no remorse. The tyrant fell under the spell of wicked women, rejected loyal advice, and ended up alone. They were cruel, harming the innocent, killing fathers and slaughtering their own kin. Heaven was enraged, and both mortals and deities were furious. In the end, they all faced retribution, killed at dawn, their bodies dismembered. Once high and mighty emperors, they ended up as prisoners below.
It wasn't just the favored concubines; the empress dowagers were no different! They did not restrain themselves with etiquette, but instead vied for power and wealth, beginning with laughter and ending in tragedy. The country declined as a result, and the ancestral shrines were burned. Bao Si perished in Zhou, Daji perished in Yin; these serve as cautionary tales! Qi Ji was mistreated, Empress Lv led to the decline of the Western Han Dynasty, and the Chen palace became a site of shamanism, leading to deaths outside; Huo Guang tried to poison the crown prince, but ultimately faced misfortune himself.
So, don't think you are very noble; heaven can easily bring you down. Don't think wealth and glory won't last forever; beauty will eventually fade away. Don't think favor will remain unchanged; grace will eventually fade away. Don't think you are invincible; the laws of heaven and human nature will turn against you. Misfortune arises from a lack of personal virtue, and blessings must be handled with care. The sun will not always shine, and the moon will have its phases. Those who play by the rules will endure, while those who abuse their power will eventually get their comeuppance. As a lowly servant, I feel compelled to speak up here.
Cai Yong offended the powerful Liang Ji by speaking his mind out of frustration, so he wrote a poem "Ode to the White Crane" to express his frustrations. When Liang Ji saw it, he called Cai Yong to question him: "All officials have their own duties, and with so many matters in the world, are we the only ones who have done wrong? Why do you criticize so sharply?" Cai Yong replied: "In the past, Guan Zhong assisted Duke Huan of Qi and liked to hear frank advice; Xiao He assisted Emperor Gaozu of Han and even specifically appointed officials who could criticize. Your family has been high-ranking officials in the court for generations, with high status and power, but I haven't heard of any accomplishments, while the common people are suffering greatly. Instead of bringing in talented people to turn things around, you are trying to silence people everywhere and deceive the emperor's ears. Are you trying to turn right into wrong and blur the lines between good and evil?" Liang Ji was left speechless and had no choice but to let Cai Yong go.
Later, Cai Yong was appointed as the magistrate of Linji County, but he had no desire to hold this position, so he took off his official seal and walked away. Liang Ji then sent assassins to secretly try to kill him. When the assassin found Cai Yong, he saw him plowing the fields along the field ridge, holding a book in his arms, and reciting verses during his breaks. Moved by his noble character, the assassin told Cai Yong the truth: "The general ordered me to kill you, but seeing your virtue, I can't go through with it. You should escape quickly, as I need to flee as well!" Cai Yong was able to escape, but he was eventually hunted down and killed by Liang Ji. During his lifetime, he composed fifteen pieces of fu, eulogies, inscriptions, elegies, admonitions, condolences, essays, "Nine Consultations," and "Seven-character" poems.
Bian Shao, courtesy name Xiaoxian, was from Chenliu Junyi. He became famous for his excellent writing and had hundreds of students. Bian Shao was very eloquent, and once pretended to be asleep during the day, causing his students to mock him behind his back: "Bian Xiaoxian, with a round belly, too lazy to study, just wants to sleep!" Upon hearing this, Bian Shao quickly shot back, "Bian is my surname, Xiaoxian is my courtesy name. My round belly is due to studying many classics; wanting to sleep is because I am pondering national affairs. When I sleep, I can meet with Duke Zhou in my dreams, and when I meditate, I can communicate with the thoughts of Confucius. How can any of you mock your teacher like this? Which book records this anecdote?" The mockers were extremely ashamed. Bian Shao's talent and quick wit were truly remarkable.
During the reign of Emperor Huan, Bian Shao served as the Marquis of Linying, later summoned as a Grand Master of the Palace in the East Pavilion. He was then promoted to the Governor of Beidi, and eventually appointed as the Minister of the Imperial Secretariat. He later served as the Prefect of Chenliu and died while serving in office. Throughout his life, he composed fifteen poems, eulogies, steles, inscriptions, books, and decrees.
