The Jianwu era is nearing its end; I submitted a petition to the emperor, in which I stated:
I carefully consider the great ambitions of the founding emperor and the strategic planning of Chen Ping. If the emperor criticizes them, he distances himself from them; if he praises them, he gets closer to them. Emperor Wen is renowned for his benevolence and wisdom, and Wei Shang is known for his loyalty. However, binding them with laws is seen as a fault, while winning them over with kindness is regarded as an achievement. Later on, Dong Zhongshu preached morality but was envied by Gongsun Hong; Li Guang fought bravely and killed enemies on the battlefield against the Xiongnu, but was marginalized by Wei Qing. These are the tragic fates that loyal ministers often face! I, Zhang Yan, am merely a lowly official. No one above recommends me, and no one below speaks for me like Feng Tang. I don't have the talent of Dong Zhongshu or the influence of Li Guang. Avoiding slander and defusing hatred is no easy task! My ancestors brought disaster upon themselves due to their loyalty. I, Zhang Yan, was born in troubled times, caught in a period of war. I dare not change my stance to pursue personal gain, have never entertained any improper thoughts about serving the emperor, and have never coveted plunder from generals. Wei Wei Yin Xing is cautious and meticulous, both inside and out, far from suspicion, so I dare to associate with him. Yin Xing knows I am very poor and has tried to help me develop my family business several times. But I believe I don't have the talent to bring three times the profit, and I dare not stay in a place that would bring three times the loss, so I firmly declined and did not accept his help. In the past, during the rebellion, I managed finances in Taiyuan, lived among soldiers, held official positions and received a salary for more than twenty years, but my family's fortune has dwindled year by year, and my living conditions became poorer. There were no accumulated fabrics at home, and no decent vehicles when going out. Now, in this era of peace and prosperity, it's an ideal time for hard work and good governance, but resentment and hostility come one after another, with all kinds of criticisms flying around. This is likely because those who are wealthy and powerful are more inclined to do good, while the poor and humble find it difficult to achieve anything. As a minor official, far removed from rural life, I cannot make a difference in the court. I nervously lay out my situation before the emperor, hoping to be relieved of my guilt.
I have submitted my memorial, but the emperor still did not reappoint me because of my previous errors. Feeling unfulfilled, I retired to compose poetry and commented to myself: Feng's wife's character is neither mediocre like jade nor rigid like stone. She is like a dragon and snake, adapting to the changing winds and clouds, freely soaring, able to adjust to the changes of the times. She does not adhere to one mode, using what is needed and discarding what is not, with no fixed rules for advance or retreat, bending and yielding as desired. It is said: "There are laws and no laws; one makes a living according to the times; there are boundaries and no boundaries; one pursues and abandons as one sees fit." She always adheres to the essence of morality, not seeking worldly fame, not being bound by trivial etiquette, and not being concerned with trivial matters. She is upright, lives a simple life, and allows her own ambitions.
However, Feng himself prefers extraordinary strategies, but no one at the time could adopt his plans. He often sighed heavily, lamenting his misfortune. Sinking for a long time in low-ranking positions, unable to fulfill his ambitions, feeling suppressed, he had to compromise, feeling desolate and sorrowful. Like a family harvesting ice, they do not care about the consumption of poultry and fish; like a minister accumulating wealth, he does not concern himself with petty profits in the marketplace. Moreover, Feng served as an official for more than twenty years, received a salary for more than twenty years, but his family's wealth decreased and his living conditions became poorer. A gentleman serves as an official to uphold his own principles! He contemplated current affairs but was unable to enhance his moral integrity, worked for personal gain but could not achieve success. Thus, he resigned and returned home, yet found himself struggling to make a living everywhere. The higher his official position, the poorer his family became, and ultimately he could not escape the disaster of hunger and cold, and faced the tragedy of losing a child.
First, I buried the general in Weiling. After the death of Emperor Ai, I built a garden for him. The site is situated east of Xinfeng, above Hongmen, and in the center of Shou'an. This location is elevated and expansive, offering a broad view and easy access: to the south, Lishan is visible; to the north, near the Jing River and Wei River; to the east, overlooking the Hua River; north of Longmen Mountain, leading to the Sanjin area; and to the west, Fenghao, hills from the Zhou and Qin periods, and the ruins of Keguan are visible, with a broad view that can see thousands of miles away, including the ruins of the old capital. Thus, I chose this place for the tomb. Afterward, I withdrew to the mountains to live a life of tranquility.
Alas, loyal ministers who pass by the old capital cannot help but sigh; filial sons returning to their ancestral homes often feel sorrowful and weep. Whenever I reflect on my ancestors, their great achievements, and the misfortunes that followed, I think of their deserted tombs and the inability to perform the traditional spring and autumn sacrifices. Having achieved little, I contemplate farming the fertile fields to the west, developing production, fulfilling filial piety, building ancestral shrines, and expanding the scale of my offerings. Then, I would retreat indoors to study moral classics, delving into the teachings of Confucius and the thoughts of Laozi, hoping to attain longevity like Song Qiao, scaling hills and high ridges, touring the universe, and looking at the world.
As I travel through the mountains and rivers of Kyushu, reflecting on the rise and fall of ancient times, I grieve the decline of morality and the fragmentation of people's hearts. To understand the outcome of things, one must trace their origins; therefore, I wish to document my ancestors' deeds and extol their virtues. In governing the land of Kyushu and managing the renowned Five Sacred Mountains, I hold the hope of leaving behind a legacy as enduring as Siling's. Thus, I penned a poem to inspire myself, titling it "Xianzhi." The term "Xianzhi" conveys the idea of promoting enlightening education and showcasing profound and esoteric thoughts. The content of the poem is as follows:
(The original poem is retained here without translation)
As the new year begins, spring is here, and all kinds of flowers are ready to bloom. At the start of this year, I am setting out on a journey westward. Starting from Xinfeng, I wandered along the way until I finally reached Haojing. I admire Fei Lian, yet I can't help but sigh; climbing up Pingyang, my heart is filled with sadness. I lament the treachery of the world and the fickleness of human relationships. I have abandoned worldly standards and am just going with the flow. I am caught in the whirlpool of power struggles, surrounded by those who seek favor and envy others. I strive to stay upright and admire the ancient sages, but this is not what people appreciate! I am saddened by how the teachings of the sages and the noble character of the virtuous have been forgotten, neglecting the value of morality while chasing after wealth and pleasure. Even though I walk the right path, I hesitate as I explore the mysteries of noble character, but people are blinded by immediate interests; who can see those intangible values? I hold on to righteousness, drawing a clear line between myself and the impurities of the world, just as my predecessors did; I reflect on my actions with a clear conscience, and I am determined never to change.
I am comforted by the fact that our country once had a prosperous era like that of Tang, Yao, and Shun, but I feel sad for my hard-working life. I express my feelings in this way, hoping to ease the sorrow in my heart. The past cannot be undone, and the future cannot be predicted; I worry that my name won't be remembered after I die, and I fear I won't find peace after I die. I climb Yongzhi, wander around, gaze into the distance, but never look back. I realize life is only lived once, and I lament how I’m drifting away from loved ones. I climb Jiu Zun Mountain, overlooking the valleys, listening to the flowing waters of the Jing and Wei Rivers. I think of the Hongmen Banquet and can't help but feel sad, lamenting my untimely death. Is this fate, or is it my own doing? I feel sorrow for how my righteousness and kindness have brought me unhappiness, as I walk toward death carrying this regret.
My mind is filled with countless thoughts; can these things still be regretted? Even if I would die without regrets, I worry that misfortune may still befall me. My tears gush out like a bursting flood, my breath rushes like rolling clouds; my heart is heavy with depression and confusion, my soul is full of sadness and suppression.
Standing on the Taihang Mountains, I gaze at its majestic form, and then go to see the surging Hukou Waterfall; I lament the desolation of graves and hate that the achievements of my ancestors are not glorious. Time flies, days pass by, my lifespan decreases day by day; I feel ashamed of my lack of accomplishments and can only retreat to this remote wilderness.
Thinking of ancient times when Yi Yin assisted King Tang and only received recognition at the age of seventy; Gao Yao was fishing in Leize and was only appreciated by Yu Shun. As an ordinary person like me, with a loyal heart yet unrecognized, I can only toil in the fields with my wife and children, living a quiet and obscure life, not boasting about my achievements. Like a skilled hunting dog, Han Lu, but bound and unable to run free; like a talented steed, a thousand-mile horse, but hindered and not allowed to gallop; only someone like me, with an open heart and far-sighted vision, can truly see this; those mediocre people cannot understand.
Although I envy the wealth of Wei Guo and the integrity of Yan Hui, I place greater value on the achievements and glory of my ancestors; so I choose to continue down this path. I observe the changing of the seasons, learn the laws and teachings of the five regions; I am well-acquainted with the diverse offerings of mountains, forests, and hills, and also taste the sweetness brought by mountain spring water. I study the agriculture of Shennong and the strategies of Xuanyuan; I seek the teachings of Zhou Qi and the traces of Fan Li.
I climbed up Longshan and looked into the distance, seeing the vast landscape of the Eight Desolations; as the wind and rain swirled around me, my mood fluctuated with it, becoming more melancholy. I watched the surging waves of the Yellow River and gazed at the ruins of the Qin and Jin dynasties; I felt indignant over Fengting's failure and also regretted the fate of Bian Que.
I journeyed across mountains and rivers, leaving my footprints from Jieshi to Dongting Lake. I drifted downstream on a boat, then rowed against the current, traveling up the Huai River.
I visited the old sites of Yan and Qi and explored the ancient capitals of Song and Chu. Seeing those once glorious kings and nobles now extinguished, my heart ached with sorrow; those once powerful vassal states now in ruins were even more poignant.
I roamed the Central Plains, enduring many hardships along the way, experiencing wind and frost. I studied the works of sages, contemplating their governing strategies, my mind was in turmoil, restless and unsettled.
Although the world follows the same trajectory, the governance of each dynasty varies. Thinking back to the era of Yao and Shun, the world was a picture of peace and harmony; Da Yu inherited their legacy and opened up new prospects.
Day and night, I pondered silently, filled with doubts and puzzles. The achievements of Gao Yang (Emperor Ku) were so outstanding and transcendent; who could possibly compare to him in later generations?
I explored the ruins of Xia Qi in Ganze, regretting the decline of the Xia Dynasty; I recited the great achievements of Cheng Tang and King Kang of Zhou, and the melodies of "South Wind."
I remembered the era of Tang, Yao, Yu, and Shun, when the world enjoyed peace, and they, along with wise ministers like Ji and Qi, governed the world harmoniously; their descendants prospered until Shang Tang and King Wu of Zhou rose, marking the dawn of a new dynasty.
However, even in an era as pure as that of the Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors, it eventually declines and ultimately perishes. I mourn the downfall of Xia Jie at Nanchao, and I weep for the defeat of King Zhou of Shang at Muye. I honor the achievements of Yi Yin in Bo's outskirts, and I pay tribute to the contributions of Lu Shang in Fengzhou; their merits shine as brightly as the sun and moon, and their reputation is as renowned as that of the Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors, echoing through the ages.
Oh, Yang Zhu cries out loud in the bustling market, while Mozi cries his heart out on the White Silk Road! He understands how easy it is to pick up bad habits, yet he complains that people do not consider the consequences. He admires how "Guo Ju" can see the finer details, and mourns that the kingly way is on the verge of collapse. He yearns for the virtues of the Zhou and Tang eras, yet regrets the sly accomplishments of Duke Huan and Duke Wen. He hates the continuous chaos of the Warring States period, despises the arrogance of those in power. He condemns the atrocities of the Chu in Nanying, and calls out Zhao Wu's wrongdoings in Jiangliang. He praises loyalty and integrity as a way to turn things around, and hates the devious schemes and foolishness. He praises Shen Shu's actions in Chen Cai, yet hates Xun Xi's deception in Yuyu. He celebrates the sanctity of farming, calls out Zang Cang's greed; he praises Zi Fan's achievements in Pengcheng, and commends Guan Zhong's contributions in Yiyi. He hates the spread of war, and hates the rise of aggressive wars; he feels for Sun Wu being exiled to the Five Lakes, and regrets Bai Qi's death at Changping. He hates the conspiracies that disturb the world, and the corrupt customs of the tyrants. He sympathizes with Su Qin's exile to Huanshui, and with Zhang Yi's imprisonment in Guigu. He is heartbroken over the decline of morals and harsh punishments; he condemns the legalism of Shang Yang, and the burning of Han Fei's teachings. He mocks the tyranny of the First Emperor, and hates that Li Si got sent to the border; he hates that the laws of the ancient kings are being destroyed, and that disasters are spreading and getting worse.
He borrowed lessons from past sages to govern the country, correcting the monarch's arrogance and indulgence; he praised the virtuous women of Qi at Jiangtai, and also commended Jiaju for his contributions at Zhanghua. He praised the brilliance of morality, rectifying the declining moral standards; he praised Duke Xiang of Song for his benevolence at Honggu, and also commended Jizha for his noble character at Yanling. He collected the essence of benevolent and wise individuals, wanting to save the declining era; he visited Zheng Qiaoyu in Zhenwei and sought out Yanying in Yingqiu. As the day gradually approached dusk, I felt lost and confused alone in the city. The land of the Nine Provinces is so vast, yet I do not know whether to go south or north. I rode in a white carriage, wandering about in a green cloud chariot; I learned from Boyi, seeking a balanced way of life; I met Wuguang, and my thoughts settled down.
I met Ziga in Zhongye, and after meeting Bocheng, my thoughts became more settled; I admired the noble character of the true man, hesitating and unwilling to leave. My thoughts surged endlessly, waiting for the gentle spring breeze, feeling relaxed and content; I sought the traces of the good scroll and met Xu You in Fushu. I parked my carriage in Jiyang, feeding my horses by the Ying River; I heard words of wisdom, suddenly enlightened, and then returned to my hometown.
Oh, I delve into the mysteries of the universe, mastering the laws of all things; studying the changes of yin and yang, displaying the brilliance of the five virtues. I once leaped over the Azure Dragon in the vast sea, taming the White Tiger in the Golden Mountains; dwelling in a stone chamber, seeking refuge in high places to pursue immortality. The divine bird soars on the high cliffs, the Xuanwu lurks in the deep waters; I ascend tall towers to gaze far and wide, picking flowers of the three beauties. Inheriting the achievements of my predecessors, illuminating the legacy of the past; wearing gorgeous clothes, inheriting the legacy of Qu Yuan. My sword hangs high, my sleeves billowing in the wind; sipping sweet wine and enjoying rare Lingzhi mushrooms.
I use thorny orange branches to weave fences, cover houses with orchids and sweet flag; plant orchids and wormwood in the courtyard, and plant daisies outside. Plant fragrant herbs such as iris and iris, plant magnolias and sweet flag; the vegetation is lush, shining brightly, the fragrance fills the air, and it's incredibly beautiful; flowers bloom, competing for attention, making it hard to choose just one; I'm not selfish with my own life, but cherish these beautiful flowers and grass that are about to wither. I roam in the vast space of my mind, adhere to noble conduct; maintain tranquility to cultivate aspirations, and that's where my happiness comes from. The mountain peaks soar into the clouds, the forests are dense and deep; the mythical birds circle in search of companions, the deer call out to their friends. I read ancient and modern history to calm my mind, study the words and actions of the wise to refine my character; I admire Confucius's understanding of fate, and respect Laozi's profound teachings; which is more valuable, virtue or the Way? Which is closer, reputation or life? I live a leisurely life in the valleys, embracing solitude to nurture my spirit.
Like Zhuangzi, who gave up fishing to resign from his high position; like Yulingzi, who tended a vegetable garden, embodying the sage. Both lived in seclusion and gained enlightenment, delving deeply to understand the truth; far from the hustle and bustle of the world, like noble pines and cypresses. My aspirations are different from others, incompatible with worldly norms; I rise above the ordinary, aspiring to be noble and free-spirited, hoping to live peacefully. After Emperor Xianzong ascended the throne, to create an illusion of peace, he exaggerated the truth, which led to his deposition and return home.
Yan married a girl from a northern family as his wife. She had a bad temper and a strong sense of jealousy, and forbade Yan from taking concubines, making their children do all the chores. As he grew older, he was eventually cast out by his wife and led a truly miserable life. Despite this, he had grand ambitions and refused to be discouraged by his poverty and lowly status. He often lamented, "When I was young, I served the esteemed, held high-ranking positions, enjoyed a life of luxury, went on diplomatic missions, never chased after trivial gains, and always harbored lofty ambitions. Even if I had the prestigious status of a high-ranking official or the vast wealth of a wealthy man, I didn't mind not having them. Though I am now poor and of lowly status, I am not discouraged at all. Although I am old and tired, I can still uphold the demeanor of a virtuous person. I wish to cultivate myself in seclusion, setting an example for future generations through my legacy." He lived a life of poverty and hardship, eventually passing away at home. He authored fifty works, including essays, elegies, inscriptions, speeches, and titles such as "Asking for a Friend," "Decree of Virtue," and "Cautious Feelings." Emperor Suzong held his writings in high regard. He had a son, Bao.
When Bao Zi Zhongwen was twelve years old, his mother passed away. Later, his father remarried, and his stepmother particularly disliked him. One night, while Bao was sleeping, his stepmother tried to poison him. Bao escaped and narrowly avoided death. Bao became increasingly respectful and dutiful towards his stepmother, but her hatred for him only deepened. People at the time praised his filial piety. As Bao grew up, he became fond of Confucianism and taught the Book of Songs and the Spring and Autumn Annals at the foot of Lishan. People in the village would say, "A person of high moral character is none other than Feng Zhongwen!" Later, he was recommended as a filial and upright official, and he became a court official, performing his duties diligently and responsibly. Whenever his reports were not answered, he would patiently wait in the provincial office, sometimes waiting from night until dawn. Emperor Suzong heard about him and greatly admired him, sending a eunuch to cover him with a blanket and instructing that he not be disturbed, and rewarding him multiple times. At the time, the court was pacifying the Western Regions, and due to Bao's talent and strategic mind, he was appointed as the Deputy Colonel of Hexi. At the beginning of Emperor Xianzong's reign, Bao repeatedly reported on border issues and suggested the appointment of military officials to restore order among the neighboring states. He was later promoted to Prefect of Wuwei, where he served for two years, and the people of Hexi held him in high regard. He was then recalled to the court to serve as a court official. In the fourteenth year of Yongyuan, he passed away in office.
Speaking of this, those in high positions often abuse their power to bully others, while talented individuals often become arrogant and careless about their actions. This is generally the case. Aren't these two just like that? Feng Yan's comparison of marrying a wife is quite fitting. When choosing a wife, everyone knows to find someone who doesn't scold oneself, but this principle is often overlooked when selecting talents. Why is this? Perhaps because it's easier to suppress jealousy than to be tolerant and understanding of others. Even though Emperor Guangwu had Bao Yong's support, he ultimately lost Feng Yan. Thus, honest people often suffer setbacks from past events, and those who stick to their principles are more likely to encounter obstacles in future relationships. Alas!
"In praise: Tan is not a fortune teller, Yan is late in entrusting himself. Their paths do not coincide, they both lose in deceitful times. With both superior talents, they have honor but low rank." This praise poem does not need to be translated; it is quoted directly from the original text.
In conclusion, this article mainly tells the story of Emperor Guangwu and Feng Yan, and the regrets between them due to their different personalities and ways of handling things. The author uses choosing a wife as an analogy to explain the principles of selecting and employing people, and also elaborates on the price of honesty and holding onto principles. The author reflects that while Emperor Guangwu had Bao Yong's support, he lost Feng Yan due to his inability to accept Feng's personality, which ultimately reflects the regret over the loss of two exceptional talents.
