Wang Bao, styled Ziyuan, was from Linyi in Langya. His great-grandfather Wang Jian served as the Shizhong and Grand Commandant of the Qi state and was posthumously honored as Duke Wenxian of Nanchang; his grandfather Wang Qian served as the Shizhong and Juzi Guanglu Daifu of the Liang state and was posthumously honored as Marquis Anhou of Nanchang; his father Wang Gui served as the Shizhong and Left Minister of the Liang state and was posthumously honored as Marquis Zhanghou of Nanchang. The entire family was well-known throughout the Jiangzuo region.
Wang Bao was knowledgeable, composed, handsome, eloquent, well-read, and particularly gifted in writing. Xiao Ziyun, the National Scholar of Liang, was Wang Bao's maternal uncle and was particularly skilled in cursive and clerical script. When Wang Bao was young, he often visited the Xiao family because they were relatives and learned calligraphy from Xiao Ziyun. Before long, Wang Bao's calligraphy matched that of Xiao Ziyun, and both received high praise. Emperor Wu of Liang admired Wang Bao's talent and married him to the daughter of his brother, Prince Hui of Poyang. Wang Bao initially served as a Secretary, then was promoted to the Prince's Aide, inherited the title of Marquis of Nanchang, and later promoted to the Secretariat. Xuan Chengwang, the eldest son of Emperor Jianwen of Liang, was also Wang Bao's nephew. At that time, the court was conducting a large-scale selection of officials, and Wang Bao was appointed as a literary officer. Not long after, he was promoted to the Interior Minister of Ancheng.
During the attack on Jiankang by Hou Jing, the city of Jianye was in chaos, but Wang Bao was able to pacify his jurisdiction very well, and therefore received praise from everyone. After Emperor Yuan of Liang ascended the throne in Jiangling, he sought to promote Wang Bao. At that time, Wang Bao was still serving in another place, so the emperor sent Wang Sengbian to bring him back with grand ceremonies. Wang Bao then went west to Jiangling with his family. Emperor Yuan of Liang and Wang Bao had known each other before; their relationship was very good, and they were very happy to see each other. The emperor appointed Wang Bao as an attendant to the court, and later promoted him several times, ultimately achieving high-ranking positions such as Minister of Personnel and Left Deputy Director. Wang Bao came from a prestigious family, was a skilled writer, and was highly respected by his contemporaries, so within just a month, he rose to a key position in the court. Although favored by the emperor, he was always humble and never abused his power, thus earning the admiration of the people.
It is said that Emperor Yuan of Liang pacified the chaos instigated by Hou Jing, captured Prince Ji of Wuling, and discovered that Jianye lay in ruins and was in urgent need of reconstruction. In contrast, Jiangling was prosperous and thriving, leading the emperor to consider relocating the capital. Additionally, many of his original officials hailed from the Chu region and shared the desire to move the capital to Jingzhou or Yingzhou. As a result, the emperor summoned his ministers to deliberate on the issue.
Leading General Hu Sengyou, Minister of Personnel Zong Min, Minister of the Imperial Household Huang Luohan, Deputy Imperial Censor Liu Jue, and others all spoke up one after another, saying, "Although Jianye is an old capital, the royal presence has diminished, and the invaders from the north are just across the river. If any unexpected situation were to arise, it would be too late to regret it. We have heard that the land of Jingnan holds the emperor's favor. Your Majesty has now ascended to the throne; could this not be seen as fulfilling destiny? The timing, location, and support of the people are all favorable, with various auspicious signs pointing towards relocating the capital. We believe that relocating the capital is the best course of action." Emperor Yuan deeply agreed with this. At that time, Minister of Works Zhou Hongzheng was also present. Emperor Yuan then asked Minister Zhou, "What do you think?" Zhou was cautious by nature, knowing that Emperor Yuan was suspicious; he did not dare openly oppose. At that moment, he merely nodded in agreement. Later, he took the opportunity of a private conversation to earnestly advise Emperor Yuan, and his words were met with some acceptance. However, Emperor Yuan's heart was already inclined towards relocating to Jingchu, having accepted the suggestions of Hu Sengyou and others. The next day, Emperor Yuan said to Minister Zhou in front of everyone, "Your advice yesterday to return to Jianye was not without reason." Zhou thought to himself, how could he bring up the secret advice given in the Xuanwu Hall in front of everyone? He realized his suggestion had been dismissed, so he chose to remain silent.
When the army attacked Jiangling, the Emperor appointed Bao as the commander of the western military forces. Bao was originally famous for his literary talent, but he was suddenly entrusted with a heavy responsibility. He felt a great sense of duty and worked hard. After Jiangling was surrounded, the people in the city were in a state of panic, but the Emperor trusted Bao completely. Zhu Maichen led an attack from the western gate of Xuanyang, but was defeated by Wang Shi. Bao's leadership was unable to prevent the defeat, so he was demoted to the rank of Guardian General. Wang Shi broke through the outer defenses, the city walls were breached, and Bao accompanied the Emperor into the inner city, still hoping to hold out. Soon after, the Emperor surrendered, and Bao left the city with everyone else. He met the pillar general Yu Jin, who showed him great respect. Bao once wrote a poem "Yan Ge Xing," vividly depicting the cold and hardships of the frontier. The Emperor and many literati wrote poems in response, all of them expressing sorrow and desolation. In hindsight, it seems the scenes described in those poems have indeed come to pass!
It is said that Xie Tiao, along with Wang Ke, Liu Jue, Zong Min, Yin Buhai, and many others, arrived in Chang'an. Emperor Gaozu was particularly delighted, saying, "When Wu was pacified in the past, only Lu Xun and Lu Kang stood out. Now, with so many talented people coming to pacify Chu, it truly feels even more formidable than before!" He then said to Xie Tiao and Wang Ke, "I am a nephew of the Wang family, and you are all relatives of my uncle's family. We should prioritize our family ties and not worry about leaving our hometown." Therefore, he immediately appointed Xie Tiao, Wang Ke, Yin Buhai, and others as generals and high-ranking officials. He often invited them to sit at the head table, treating them to lavish food and drink. Xie Tiao and the others were very grateful for the Emperor's favor, forgetting the weariness of their journey.
After Emperor Xianmin ascended the throne, he bestowed upon Xie Tiao the title of Marquis of Shiquan County, with an estate comprising three hundred households. Later, when Emperor Shizong took the throne, he had a great fondness for literature. At that time, Xie Tiao and Yu Xin were the most celebrated poets, and Emperor Shizong held them in high regard. Whenever the emperor hosted banquets or excursions, he would have Xie Tiao and the others compose poetry and discuss matters, always keeping them by his side. Before long, Xie Tiao was promoted to the position of Chancellor. During the Baoding era, he was further promoted to Grand Historian. Emperor Gaozu wrote the "Book of Symbols" and had Xie Tiao annotate it. Xie Tiao's annotations were meticulously accurate and well-cited, earning him great praise. Xie Tiao was exceptionally talented and had a deep understanding of governance. His family had served in high-ranking positions in Jiangdong for generations, which made Emperor Gaozu value him even more. Starting from the Jian De era, Xie Tiao regularly engaged in state affairs discussions, and all important edicts and titles were drafted by him. After the Eastern Palace was completed, Xie Tiao was appointed as the Crown Prince's Guardian and later promoted to Minor Minister of Works, still responsible for drafting edicts. Whenever the emperor went on tours, Xie Tiao always accompanied and served him.
At first, Xie Tiao had a close friendship with the recluse Zhou Hongrang from the Liang Dynasty. Later, Zhou Hongrang's brother, Zhou Hongzheng, arrived in Chang'an from the Chen state to visit, and Emperor Gaozu permitted Xie Tiao and Zhou to correspond and understand each other's situations. Xie Tiao even wrote poems for Zhou Hongrang and wrote him a letter that read:
"Emperor Sizong finds himself at a crossroads, Yang Zhu is on a divergent path. The traveling weeds have long departed, and the flowing water does not return. The sorrowful and different seasons, the warmth and chill are distinct; the bark of trees is thick in spring, while the osmanthus flourishes in winter. I ponder the best way to protect the Wei, with much movement and stillness. My dear brother enters the pass, respectfully receiving your kind words. Still relying on the waters of Duling, maintaining the fields of Chiyang, clearing the traces of secluded paths, and silencing the echoes of the vast valleys. Who could have anticipated such joy? How fortunate indeed!"
My younger brother used to have poor health and often flipped through the health methods in "The Nine Immortals Diagram"; later, he started his official career but always dreamed of exploring the famous mountains of the Five Great Peaks like the renowned scholars of ancient times. He sought out talented individuals everywhere, alongside Guan Ling (referring to a descendant of Guan Yu, here indicating an official); he admired those of noble character, just like the guest scholars of old. He frequently studied Daoist classics and listened over and over to discussions about "Xuanpin"; he also used traditional Chinese medicine to care for his body and mind and often learned about alchemy. In recent years, his health has deteriorated, his hair has turned white, and he has aged, feeling as though he could leave this world at any moment. Reflecting on his life, a wave of worries washed over him. As the days went by, he felt time slipping away like the twilight years of Zhao Mengfu; leaning on his cane as he recited poetry, he was like Liu Kun, who had faced many hardships. Gazing towards the river in the north, he thought of Gong County; looking south towards Balin, he recalled Chang'an. All he wanted was for his soul to return to his homeland, even if it meant becoming a ghost, he wished to leave no regrets. Oh, the white clouds in the sky, we are about to part forever; the day we meet again feels so far away! He shook as he picked up his pen to write these words.
Hong Rang replied:
Alas, it's so heartbreaking! This is what parting looks like! Just like clouds dispersing, soil settling, gold melting, and orchids wilting, beautiful sounds can no longer be heard, and beautiful things can no longer be seen. My brother returned from Gaogjing and wrote me this letter. Your handwriting seems to be right before my eyes; as I read the letter, I wrote back, tears flowing down to my knees. The Jiangnan region is warm and humid, with oranges and pomelos evergreen; while Wei Bei is cold and dry, with the leaves of poplar and elm trees having fallen. The customs and climates up north and down south are different, each has its own perks; as long as one maintains a timely diet and lifestyle, one can achieve health and longevity. Very good! Very good!
I spoke the Shaanxi dialect with my younger brother, and we agreed to return to the eastern region together. Although we managed to save Zhouling, we still followed Jiangjing back to our hometown. The Sanjiang family has fallen on hard times, and the Erzhong brothers will not return; the family has fallen into decline, deepening our sorrow. Although I possess the Danjing, poverty and illness weigh heavily upon me, making it hard to cope; although I can pick the Lingzhi mushroom, I am always busy collecting herbs. Back in my youth, my brother was also in the prime of his life. Both of us experienced a time of peace and prosperity, traveling together in Hengshan and Biyang. We recited elegant poetry in the southern breeze, and the enchanting melodies of Qing Shang were captivating. We sat across from each other, playing the zither together every day. We both longed to consume the jade liquid and golden essence, hoping to prolong our lives, but unexpectedly, everything changed overnight. I have grown old and frail, and my brother is no longer young. We are like beasts, separated by a thousand miles, with an indescribable sadness in our hearts as we forever reminisce about the times we spent together. Now, I can only watch the days pass on the calendar, trying to ease my sorrow and dry my tears. In life, happiness is what matters most; why should we let worries trouble us? How can I be so overly sad about my brother's death, disturbing his spirit? I am far away, grieving for Jin Yan's passing, and his body has no place to rest. I just hope my brother takes care of himself, valuing himself like a precious gem, living to a ripe old age and enjoying family happiness. I also hope to receive your letters, like a wild goose carrying news or a carp delivering messages, as the clear breeze and bright moon carry my longing. Ziyuan, Ziyuan, we are forever parted from now on! I take up the pen to write this letter, tears streaming down like rain, my voice choked with emotion. I was later appointed as the governor of Yizhou and ultimately passed away in office at the age of sixty-four. My son Zi inherited my title.
Yu Xin, courtesy name Zishan, was a native of Xinye in Nanyang. His grandfather Yu Yi was a military officer of the Qi dynasty, and his father Yu Jianwu was an imperial attendant and chief of the imperial secretariat of the Liang dynasty. Yu Xin was exceptionally intelligent and talented from an early age, excelling in his studies and especially in the "Zuo Zhuan" commentary on the Spring and Autumn Annals. He was eight chi tall, with a waist measurement of ten chi, and had a graceful demeanor and extraordinary temperament. He initially served as an imperial attendant in Xiangdong and later was promoted to be a military officer of Annan Prefecture. At that time, his father Yu Jianwu served as a middle steward of the Crown Prince in the Eastern Palace, in charge of record-keeping, while Xu Chi from Donghai served as the commander of the Left Guard forces. Xu Chi's son Xu Ling and Yu Xin served together as scholars responsible for copying texts in the Eastern Palace. The father and son enjoyed unparalleled favor in the Eastern Palace, and Yu Xin was not only talented but also had an elegant literary style, earning them the moniker "Xu-Yu style." Many up-and-coming talents at the time sought to emulate his literary style. Every article he wrote would be widely circulated in the capital. He was later promoted to the position of supervisor in the Ministry of Revenue, a supervisor in the Imperial Secretariat, and then was sent to Yizhou as an assistant officer. Soon after, he also served as a cavalier attendant and was invited to the Eastern Wei dynasty. His writings and speeches were highly praised in Ye city. Upon his return, he served as a scholar in the Eastern Palace and also as the magistrate of Jiankang.
During the rebellion of Hou Jing, Emperor Jianwen of Liang sent Yu Xin with over a thousand civil and military officials to camp at Zhuque Harbor. When Hou Jing attacked, Yu Xin and his men retreated first. After the city was lost, Yu Xin fled to Jiangling. Emperor Yuan of Liang appointed him as the Chief Censor while he was in office. When Emperor Yuan came to power, he promoted Yu Xin to the position of Right Guard General, bestowed upon him the title of Marquis of Wukang County, added the title of cavalier attendant, and then sent him to our region for a marriage alliance. Just as the imperial army was heading south, he remained in Chang'an. After the fall of Jiangling, he was appointed as the commissioner, General of the Army, Right Golden Purple Radiance Grand Master, and Grand Commander, and shortly thereafter promoted to General of Chariots and Cavalry, as well as General of the Household.
After Emperor Xiaomin ascended to the throne, he bestowed upon him the title of Count of Linqing County, with a fief comprising five hundred households, and appointed him as the Minister of Water Affairs. Later, he was sent to Hongnong Commandery to serve as the governor of the commandery, and then promoted to General of the Cavalry, and was made Chief of the Three Departments, while his noble rank was elevated to Marquis of Yicheng County. Not long after, he was appointed as the Governor of Luozhou. Xin was well-versed in the laws and systems of the past, serving with integrity and simplicity, winning the support of the common people. At that time, the Chen Dynasty had a good relationship with the court, allowing scholars who had fled to the south and north to return to their homelands. The Chen Dynasty requested the return of Wang Bao, Xin, and over ten others. Emperor Gaozu only permitted Wang Ke, Yin Buhai, and a few others to leave, while Xin and Wang Bao were left behind and denied permission to leave. Later, he was once more summoned to serve as Minister of the Ancestors.
Emperors Shizong and Gaozu both had a deep appreciation for literature, and Xin was particularly favored by them. Even princes like Prince Zhao and Prince Teng maintained a close friendship with him, treating him like an ordinary friend. Many officials sought his help in crafting their stele inscriptions and epitaphs. Only Wang Bao could rival him; other scholars simply couldn't compare.
Despite holding a high-ranking official position, Xin always remembered his hometown. Thus, he penned an "Ode to Jiangnan" to articulate his feelings of homesickness, and the ode reads as follows:
In the year 1878 (the Year of the Earth Dragon), in October (the Month of the Pig), bandits seized control of the country, and the city of Jinling fell completely. I had no choice but to flee into the wilderness to hide; both the country and its people suffered tremendous disasters. I wandered through Huayang, a region in Sichuan, fleeing everywhere, but could not find a place to stay; the hope for revival was shattered, and I remained in poverty until 1884 (the Year of the Wood Dog). I cried for three days at Duting and was imprisoned for three years in another mansion. The ways of heaven are cyclical; things will reverse when they reach the extreme. I thought of Fu Xie, who lamented only for his own fate, seeking nothing but survival; and I thought of Yuan An, who often missed the royal family, tears streaming down my face without control. Previously, Huan Kuan and Du Yu had written autobiographies, recounting their life stories. Pan Yue's writings are exquisite, starting with family traditions; Lu Ji's poetry mostly talks about the virtues of the aristocratic family. I was just twenty when I was caught in war and chaos, drifting until my old age. Thinking of the parting scenes in "Yange Xing," I was so sad that I couldn't control myself; and thinking of the scene of the old ministers of Chu reuniting, I found it hard to express the sorrow in my heart. I once feared the rain in the southern mountains, but unexpectedly found myself on the land of Qin; I once sought refuge on the shores of the East Sea, but ended up eating coarse grains in the land of the Zhou dynasty. I wandered in Xiating and lodged at Gaoqiao; the songs of Chu brought me no joy, and the wine from Lu couldn't help me forget my sorrows. I write this piece merely to record my experiences, which are filled with hardships and struggles, with an underlying sadness woven throughout.
As dusk falls and the road stretches on, what kind of age is this world, really? The general is gone and will never return, like a big tree blown down by the wind; the hero never returns, the cold wind rustles, evoking a sense of desolation. Jing Ke sharpens his sword against the pillar, yet is deceived by those he trusted; I linger on the steps, clutching books in my arms, holding a precious jade plate yet unable to find solace. Zhong Yi, a paragon of virtue, ultimately becomes a prisoner; the envoy of the Jisun clan is ensnared in a lodge at Xihexian. For the sake of his country, Shen Baoxu even bangs his head against the ground until it bleeds; Cai Weigong weeps until his tears run dry, only for blood to flow. I gaze at the willows by the fishing platform, yet cannot see the Yuguang; I hear the cranes calling in Huating, yet cannot hear the sound of the river bridge.
Sun Ce, commanding a force, dared to assert his dominance, while Xiang Yu, merely leading eight thousand soldiers from Jiangdong, also dared to divide and conquer. Who needs a million troops? In an instant, one could capture cities and territories, slaughtering the enemy as easily as mowing grass! Between the Yangtze River and the Huai River, there are no formidable riverbanks to impede progress, and the cities have no solid defenses. Those in power form alliances with each other; the common folk fend for themselves, adapting to circumstances. Can the royal spirit of Jiangdong truly endure for three hundred years? Therefore, even if the nation is unified, it cannot avoid the fate of being destroyed like the Zhi Road; even if the culture of the world is unified, it cannot avoid the tragedy of being conquered like Pingyang. Alas! The mountains and rivers are crumbling, and we stand at the precipice of destruction; with the changing of dynasties, there will inevitably be sorrow in losing the old. The whims of fate and human affairs truly bring great sorrow! Moreover, the waterways are obstructed, making it hard to reach the heavens; the land routes are perilous, making it impossible to reach the fairyland of Penglai. The impoverished yearn to voice their thoughts, and the weary long to sing of their experiences. It's only natural that Lu Ji would cheer my words, while Zhang Heng might see my insights as lacking depth.
I am the head of the Yu Chengzhou family, relying on the merits of my ancestors and serving in official roles for generations; assisting the court and utilizing my own knowledge and talent in governance. Our family owns the jade of Songshan and Huashan, enriching the waters of the Yellow River and Luo River. Our ancestors lived in Luoyang, distinguished for generations, living and working happily by the river. It wasn't until the chaos during the Yongjia era that the Central Plains lost their masters. The people huddled against the walls, and jackals, wolves, and leopards prowled the roads. We endured the chaos of fleeing south from Wuma Mountain and encountered the spectacle of the migration to Sanxingdui. They crossed the Yangtze River to establish a country, while our ancestors scattered far and wide. The court allocated fields in Nanyang to us and granted us land in Dongyue. Our family once brought down the thatched roof of Song Yu's household and also opened up the road to the residence in Linjiang. The flow of water and timber, and the collapse of mountains, our family has always maintained upright conduct, and most family members also uphold noble integrity. Educating descendants to be pure and upright, serving the monarch with loyalty and righteousness as a priority. There is a shrine dedicated to me in Xinye, and my inscriptions can be found in Henan. Moreover, I am a descendant of the true person of Shaowei and a hermit of Tianshan. The courtyard of my home is spacious and quiet, with few carriages and horses in front of the gate. I often teach under the trees and write on bamboo slips. I was born with the temperament of a prestigious family and destined to be a loyal subject. My writings exceed those of Jia Guan, and my calligraphy surpasses that of Zhang Bin. Unfortunately, my virtues are not appreciated by anyone, lamenting my misfortune, yet a qilin appears. The treacherous villains hide in the shadows and will ultimately fail to win the favor of the benevolent.
When Prince Luobin was still young, Lan Chengshe was also continuing his education at Chongxian Academy. He often visited the lecture halls in Leichi and attended Mingli's family banquets. He was well-read and knowledgeable, keenly observant, and sought to understand the mysteries of the universe. His residence featured clear waters, rounded ponds, and beautiful scenery. He studied military strategy in the army while also enjoying music at literary gatherings. He passed the exams and entered the official career path, skilled in both civil and military affairs. He held important positions, managed military power, and oversaw court ceremonies. He discussed military tactics with the rulers of the Jianghan region and offered valuable advice to the rulers of the Xihe region.
At that time, there was peace and joy in the court, with magnificent palaces and festive scenes everywhere. The prince's mansion bustled with guests, resembling a sacred site akin to Zoulu. His mansion spanned the Hengtang and reached Jiangpu. A stone bridge spanned the east gate, and bronze pillars were erected at the southern gate. The garden boasted tens of thousands of trees, with bamboo groves stretching across thousands of households. Exquisite treasures from the Western Regions arrived from the west, and exotic animals from the south came from the south. The melodies of Wu, the chants of Yue, the splendor of Jing, and the dances of Chu overflowed with vitality everywhere. The grass and trees bathed in the spring sun, and fish and dragons played in the wind and rain. Over fifty years, the Jiangbei region enjoyed peace, and Wang She, as a peace envoy, and Ban Chao, as the General of Dingyuan, both made significant contributions to the nation. Ma Wu did not participate in the war, and Feng Tang did not serve as a general, enjoying the era of peace and prosperity.
Who would have thought that beneath the seemingly tranquil mountains and rivers, dark currents swirl, and crises abound? The Lüzuo garrison is stationed in the Yuyang region, while the military officer is stationed in the Lishi region, and signs of unrest along the border have already emerged. The Emperor is busy organizing poetry and books, establishing rituals and musical systems, setting up the Chongyun Academy, founding the Shilin Academy, discussing historical lessons, and debating celestial changes. However, the nation is fraught with crises, as dense as the teeth of a fish, and the city walls are on the brink of collapse, as dangerous as the horns of a beast. The high-ranking officials treat war lightly, while the gentry are lost in idle chatter, neglecting the safety of the nation. They use dilapidated boats to cross the flooded waters and rotten ropes to control the galloping steeds, while the nation is on the brink of collapse. The common folk are about to face disasters of water and fire, while the noble gentlemen remain immersed in carefree ease. The nation's flaws can't wash away the bitterness of the salt flats, and even the finest gelatin can't clear the murk of the Yellow River.
In the end, disaster finally struck, and the border was in dire peril, with enemy camps everywhere. In the palace, a river gull was spotted, and the cry of a wild pheasant echoed through the palace, symbolizing the nation's decline. The famed sword Zhanlu left the palace, signifying the nation's loss of power. When people saw someone with unkempt hair in Yichuan, they knew that war had broken out.
It is said that the power of those villains is growing ever stronger; they have long since gone rogue, disregarding the rules. The larger ones are as ferocious as whales and giant catfish, while the smaller ones are as vicious as owls and wild dogs. They rely on their large numbers and fierceness, and are utterly unmanageable. Even if the best methods are used to govern them, it's nearly impossible to rein them in. Even in peaceful times, they still manage to stir up trouble. They drink the finest wine, wear the best tiger and leopard skin clothes, and plunder the wealth of the people far and wide, even venturing to the distant Western Regions to loot. Their ferocity and cunning are as lethal as jackal's teeth and snake venom, making them impossible to guard against. They even dare to underestimate the nation's vital assets and spy on the country's secrets.
At first, it was the prince in league with the barbarians, and the treacherous officials also wore armor, boasting of their military might. They controlled the court, sowed discord between the ruler and his subjects, spread rumors everywhere, and leaked state secrets. They even dared to pardon fugitives from the court and help the rebels in Huainan. Just like an eagle soaring over Diqin, a trapped beast struggling to cross the Yangtze River, they caused chaos everywhere. The earth shook, strange signs appeared in the sky, the dragon roared in the Northern Palace, and the qilin fought in the Eastern Mausoleum, signaling that something monumental was about to unfold. Those cunning and evil people colluded with each other, incited rebellion, and attacked the capital city. They attacked fiercely like wolves, turning the entire nation on its head. The rebels wore blue clothes, rode white war horses, and were aggressive. The emperor was forced to stop the court meetings, while the chieftain celebrated from on high. Arrows rained inside and outside the palace, with peril lurking at every turn. A white rainbow arched across the sun, an eagle swooped down on the palace, and all kinds of omens foreshadowed the coming disaster.
They all ultimately faced utter disaster, just like the calamity of Xia Tai and the upheaval of Yao City. Court officials were neglected, and the army was powerless to quell the rebellion. Tao Kan could only go through the motions of transporting food, while Gu Rong could only feign authority with his feather fan. Generals died in battle, roads were surrounded by enemies, beacons fell like meteors, and urgent military reports soared like eagles. As a result, the country split, the army was defeated, warhorses scattered, and war chariots lay in disarray. Warriors defended the city, while strategists found themselves at a loss. In the Battle of Kunyang, the enemy scattered like a herd of elephants through the forest; in the Battle of Changshan, the enemy slithered away like a pack of snakes escaping a cave. Within five counties, brothers mourned for one another; within three states, fathers and sons were separated, and the people suffered.
The guardian was a truly passionate and loyal figure, willing to sacrifice himself for the country, even if it meant his death! His family had produced three generations of military generals, but in the end, they all perished. The loyal and righteous man from Jiyang was merely a soldier, yet he bravely fought the enemy. His three brothers were all righteous men. They would rather die than suffer disgrace; honor was more important than life, and they all died in battle. The Di people surrendered, and the soldiers were engulfed in grief. The Lord Secretary was without a plan, but his defensive strategies were notably effective. Siege towers? Tunnels? They could withstand it all! We have the ability of the general of the Qi Kingdom to defend the city, not like the spineless Yan Kingdom army cowering behind walls. The grand events have come and gone, the heroes have fallen; it is truly a lamentable loss!
Shen Zifen rose up and fought fiercely, full of courage! He led the army, always taking the lead, charging into battle. He once lost his armor at Yumen Pass, his warhorses filled the stables, and he frequently penetrated deep into enemy camps, sustained multiple injuries, and had to undergo bone scraping to treat the poison. Unfortunately, before he could showcase his achievements, he died young, and his name faded into obscurity. Some said he was as swift as a falcon, yet as weak as a sparrow; others said he borrowed the tiger's might to intimidate others. He was covered in blood, with corpses scattered across the fields. His forces were weak, the enemy strong, the cities isolated, and morale low. The sound of cranes made him so frightened that he lost his wits, and the sound of flutes brought him to tears. He lost his weapon at Shenting and his warhorse at Hengjiang. In the end, he died on the battlefield of Julu, buried in the rubble of Changping.
As a result, Guilin was breached, and Changzhou became a desolate place, filled with fleeing soldiers and a scene of chaos and tragedy. The heavens and earth seemed torn apart, and both gods and men felt immense resentment. The Jin and Zheng states were suspicious of each other, while the Lu and Wei states were also at odds, all competing to attack Tianguan and seize the axis of the earth. They greedily fought over it, yet like fledglings searching for a nest, they were never full, and like waiting for bear paws to be ready, they would never see results. In the end, the city gates were breached, and the enemy tore down the beams and columns of the temples. It was as if the ghosts of the Cao clan were wreaking havoc, and cries filled the halls of the Qin court.
I pretended to be engraving beeswax, passing it off as a messenger's reply. Along the way, I was suspected at Eban and encountered tax collectors at the checkpoints. I rode a white horse but was too afraid to move forward, so I switched to a green mule and stumbled along. I took a small boat, drifting with the wind, with the sail raised high. Those river bandits were as sharp as saw teeth and as vicious as claws; they patrolled the river, familiar with the currents, sailing their majestic warships that resembled azure dragons, darting gracefully back and forth on the deck. It was as fierce as the battles fought by Zhang Liao at Chibi and Wang Jun at Baqiu. Suddenly, a strong wind arose, and arrows flew like fire; then, arrows became too heavy, and the boat nearly capsized. Before I could figure out what was happening on Huang Gai's side of the battle, Du Hou's ship had already sunk. I had no choice but to lower the sail and hide in the harbor of Yellow Crane Rock, concealed among the water plants of Parrot Island. The Xiang River and Han River had already parted ways; I looked up, and the Big Dipper was still twinkling in the sky. Later, I got lost in Yinling and followed a small path by the fishing platform, reaching Chian, my clothes soaked through, yet I dared not cross the Wu River. The camps at Leichi, Zhapu, and Que Ling were all in ruins; there was no smoke rising from the inns, and the birds had all abandoned their nests. I once believed that the talents from Jingzhou and Hengyang were as reliable as the finest timber, and that the people of the Jianghan region could be trusted, but to my surprise... Huaihai, Yangzhou, over three thousand miles, I begged for food on floating sandbanks, using the reed marshes to make my way across one river after another. By the time I reached Qize, I was nearly at death's door. Alas, I thought heaven would look out for me, but the disaster was just beginning. I wasn't good at taking risks, and I had no interest in the bureaucratic world, yet I found myself assigned to the central army as a guard, falsely claiming to be a Deputy Censor.
My birth was like the leap of a dragon of Longmen, and saying goodbye to my loved ones felt like parting from the rivers and lakes. I follow the teachings of my ancestors, shouldering the heavy responsibilities of my family. For three generations, my forebears made no mistakes, but now in my seventh generation, I have fallen into such despair. I weep to the melodies of Liangshanbo, struggling to survive like a dried-up fish. I walked into the rugged path, pushed open the overgrown and desolate courtyard gate, and picked calamus by the water's edge, waiting for the humble garments woven from reeds.
At that time, the Western Chu overlord Xiang Yu's army had already reached Fanyang, fiercely battling at Jinkui and fighting at Yutang. On the battlefield, eagles circled above, red sparrows flew, iron ships stood tall, and battle flags fluttered. Xiang Yu sorrowfully killed a white horse to boost morale, then led his troops across the Yangtze River. The tides surged to greet the warships, while the river weeds drifted away to bid farewell to the overlord. Xiang Yu's army was stationed at Shicheng, with warships filling the Huai River and Si River. Among the lords, the king of Zheng was the first to send troops, but the lord Xun Ying did not arrive until evening. Xiang Yu's army fought everywhere, capturing cities and lands with an unstoppable force. They buried the warriors of the Changdi tribe at Jumeng and slaughtered Chiyou's subordinates in Zhongji. Xiang Yu even used the enemy's belly
Looking westward at Bowang and gazing northward at Xuanpu, there are pavilions illuminated by moonlight and caressed by the wind. The pond is clear, and ancient trees tower high. Xiang Yu once leaned on his bow in front of the Jade Maiden Window, tying his horse beneath the Phoenix Tower. However, the Ren Shou treasure mirror hangs uselessly, and the books of Maoling are merely a pile of dust. Although Xiang Yu possessed great talent and strategy, with both civil and military prowess, his fame spread far and wide, and his moral integrity was noble. He never encountered a teacher like Fu Qiu Gong who could guide him through confusion, nor did he find a confidant like Shi Kuan with whom he could share his innermost thoughts. He could only entrust his beloved son to others while he himself looked towards the West Ridge, overcome with silent sorrow. Xiang Yu was not lacking in military strength at the Northern Gate, nor did he lack soldiers from Yuntai. He was also not short of capable strategists like Situ and loyal ministers like Hu Yan by his side. He once brandished his spear against the overlord and beat the drum to question the treacherous ministers. His achievements in pacifying the State of Wu even surpassed those of Du Yuankai; his contributions to the royal family exceeded those of Wen Taizhen. Initially, Xiang Yu relied on place names to showcase his integrity, but in the end, he was referred to by the name of the mountain, a hero who died unjustly. The bookkeeper of Nanyang had long since departed from him; the hunting at Shangcai felt like a missed opportunity. He guarded the north, and although he had a remarkable reputation, he ultimately met a tragic end, with the howling winds sending chills down his spine. The water god was struck by his arrow, and the mountain spirit was whipped by his lash. Thus, the hibernating bear injured the horse, and the dragon in the water sank the warship. In the end, these talented heroes could not escape the hands of fate and did not live to see a hundred years.
During the time of Zhongzong, the world was not at peace; disorder reigned everywhere, and grievances piled up high as mountains. He later inherited the throne and led the ancestral sacrifices. He restored some old systems, hoping to return the world to a time of peace and prosperity. However, he was excessively suspicious and prone to outbursts, feigning good health despite his ailments. He delayed national affairs, and the feudal lords began to grow uneasy.
As a result, the friendly relations with the State of Qi were severed, and troubles arose in the State of Qin. Worse still, while contemplating better relations with the State of Chu, he secretly supported the rebels in the State of Wu. He was forced to lead troops against the Green Forest rebels and deal with the insurgents in Lishan. He took his troops to Liangzhou and Bashu to fight, seeking divine guidance and consulting soothsayers at every turn. Officials in Jingzhou were killed, and officials in Xiazhou were also killed. He failed to educate the people and showed no interest in fostering harmony. He showed no regard for national affairs and did not seriously study the principles of governing the country. Without fully grasping the five potential dangers, he made two wrong decisions.
He sought refuge in Yangcheng, crouching beneath a pillar for safety. His words were cutting, and his actions were ruthless. He merely observed the changing situation, utterly indifferent to the lives of ordinary people. His territory was minuscule, and the cities were as small as a grain of sand. The people were filled with grievances, and treaties became meaningless. How could anyone fill the sea with resentment? How could the strength of fools move mountains? Moreover, the celestial signs at that time were ominous, with frequent disasters. An ominous red bird appeared, and the sky was overcast with clouds. The day of Wu's downfall was drawing near, and the chance to seize Yingdu was imminent.
Zhou Han was burning with anger; Chu and Qin were locked in a bitter feud, and their grievances were difficult to resolve. The south wind was weak, and the western neighbors came to criticize, which was just adding fuel to the fire. Before long, war broke out, as ladders clashed and weapons whirled wildly, the warhorses of Jizhou gathered like a storm cloud. The Qin chariots thundered through Changgu, while the war drums of Han thundered at Leimen. The Qin army captured Chencang, with crossbows firing in unison; they crossed Linjin, with warships sailing across. Although the state of Chu had seven large lakes and its population was said to be as few as three households, the Chu army's arrows missed six elk, and the thunder failed to frighten away nine tigers, ultimately leading to their defeat. The Chu army retreated from the banks of Dongting Lake, fleeing all the way to the end of Cenyang, where the flames of battle consumed the military flags, and the biting cold wind dispelled the plague. In the end, they could only stand by helplessly as the jade axles were burned to ashes and the dragon-patterned pillars were cut down. Only broken cities remained by the river, and abandoned camps were found in the woods. The soldiers could only worry about how to feed their horses, yet could not see the army that burned and killed the enemy troops. Zhang Manzhi was defeated and made his escape, while Gong Zhiqi was killed. The Yellow River hadn’t frozen, but the horses could still cross; the passes had not yet brightened, but the crowing of roosters had already sounded. Loyal ministers met a tragic end, while gentlemen could only endure silently. Zhanghuatai turned into a site for honoring the dead, and Yunmengze turned into a false amusement ground. Mo Ao took his own life in the desolate valley, and Ye Fu was imprisoned by the enemy general. The sounds of clashing weapons echoed back and forth, while eagles circled in the sky. Injustice fell mercilessly like frost and snow in both winter and summer, and anger surged like spring water in autumn. The city walls collapsed, akin to the weeping of the women of Qi; the bamboo was stained, like the tears of the Xiang concubines.
The water quality of the Jing River in the Qin state is poor, while Xingshan Mountain in the Zhao state towers into the clouds. Ten-mile-long pavilions and five-mile-short pavilions, the fleeing people, famished and silent, are like swallows lying in wait and like those chasing fireflies as they escape. The water in Qin is dark, and the roads are muddy. At this time, the chaos of war melts away like ice and snow, ending as swiftly as the wind sweeps away the clouds. Within a thousand miles, the Zishui and Mianshui river basins are in turmoil. Heavy snow falls, dim like sand; the ice stretches across, as hard as the riverbank. They encounter Lu Ji on his way to Luoyang and meet Wang Can, who has left his hometown. No one can hear the sound of Longshui without covering their face and weeping, and no one faces the mountains and rivers without sighing deeply. Moreover, the king is at the Jiao River, the beloved concubine is by the clear waters, the stone statue longs for her husband, and the mountains yearn for their sons, intensifying the feelings of longing. The talented scholars yearn for Dai County, while the princesses depart from Qinghe. The Xuyang Pavilion is filled with poems of parting, and the King of Linjiang creates sorrowful songs. There is also the tumultuous Wuwei and the wandering Jinwei. Ban Chao has longed to serve his country since birth, and Wen Xu thought of returning home before his death. Li Ling's twin swans have flown away forever, and Su Wu's lone goose flies alone.
The troubles in Jiangling became the root cause of Jinling's misfortunes. Although it seemed to be borrowing external force, the chaos actually stemmed from internal factors. The monarch who pacified the rebellion suddenly passed away, and the imperial family seeking revival could not be saved. My uncles and fathers all met their demise at the hands of that ungrateful son. The magpies flew away from Jing Mountain, and the jade artifacts lay in ruins; on the banks of Suizhou, the snake laid its eggs, yet the pearls perished. Ghostly flames flickered throughout Pinglin, and the wails of lost souls echoed in Xinshi. As a result, the Liang State fell into decline and was forced to migrate, and Chu State was eventually destroyed by Qin State. How can prosperity be achieved without making choices? The descendants of the Guif family eventually flourished within the Jiang clan. They handed over the divine artifacts to me, and I made way for their king. The greatest virtue of heaven and earth lies in nurturing all living things, and the greatest wealth of the sage is position. Unfortunately, the entire Jiangdong was forsaken by the descendants of a disreputable lineage. It is unfortunate that there is but one family in the world, yet it suffers from the turmoil in the southeast. In a desperate attempt to curry favor with the Qin State using the head of a quail, has the heavenly elder lost his mind or become intoxicated?! The way of heaven circulates, and the fate of the people shifts in tandem. My ancestors began to migrate to Sichuan during the Western Jin Dynasty. By my generation, it is already the seventh generation, and we have moved north again due to war. With elderly parents and young children, we drifted between the passes for many years. The pain of parting in life and death is beyond words. Now, as my family dwindles, I remain the last one standing, yet my spirit remains unyielding. Year after year slips by, and a new chapter is about to begin. I arrived at the outskirts of Changle, gazing upon the flourishing land of Xuanping. The Wei River flows from Tianmen Mountain, and Lishan surrounds the market. I am a guest at the Grand Marshal's residence and a favored visitor of the Prime Minister, Marquis Pingjin. I have seen the bronze tripod of the Jin Zhang family, and I have heard the string song of the Xu Shi family. Who could have imagined that the former general still roams the night in Baling hunting; and the common folk in Xianyang yearn not just for the return of the prince.
When I first took office, I stepped down due to illness and eventually died. Emperor Wen of Sui was very sorrowful, posthumously conferred my original title upon me and appointed me as the governor of Jingzhou and Huaizhou. My son inherited my titles.
The historian said: The dual forces of yin and yang each occupy their rightful place, the sun and moon rise and set in their cycles, and the celestial phenomena are clearly visible; the Eight Trigrams are used to elucidate principles, and written records document history, making the development of culture clear and visible. As for those ancient texts, we cannot detail them all one by one, but the texts following the "Dian Mo" help us grasp the ancient legacy. Thus, Qufu has always produced many talented individuals who are versatile and can discern the history of the Xia and Shang dynasties, thereby establishing their own foundations; in Que, people are in tune with the way of heaven, and they revised the "Six Classics," preserving the tradition of rites and music. Therefore, they encompass all things under heaven and regulate human relationships. They are knowledgeable about the divine changes and have been revered by later generations; they govern the country and educate the people, and their achievements have been passed down to this day. Truly remarkable! This is indeed the work of sages!
After the decline of the Zhou dynasty, rituals and music fell apart, morality declined, and chaos engulfed the world. At that time, the Jixia Academy and Qiyuan in the State of Qi witnessed the emergence of various doctrines, with endless debates and grand discourses erupting among everyone. While these doctrines may have their flaws, upon closer inspection, they are indeed the foundation of later virtuous thinkers' ideas.
Later, Qu Yuan, who was exiled from the State of Chu, wrote "Li Sao" to express his aspirations. His talent was extraordinary, and his works were imbued with deep empathy. There was also Song Yu, a poet from the southern region, who followed in Qu Yuan's footsteps, inheriting and promoting his style. The esteemed Confucian Xun Kuang expounded his thoughts on propriety, righteousness, wisdom, and trust; his writings were nuanced and laced with irony. Jia Yi, a talented man from Luoyang, further refined and elevated the elegant style of Qu Yuan and Song Yu, shining brilliantly. They were all adept at expressing their emotions and created elegant poetry; their lyrical works are arguably the finest of that era.
Since then, a plethora of writings emerged, with styles becoming increasingly diverse. After Emperor Wu of Han, the court encouraged literary styles, giving rise to a wave of literary figures, among whom Sima Xiangru, Sima Qian, Wang Bao, and Yang Xiong were the most prominent. By the Eastern Han period, this trend reached new heights, with writers appearing in droves, and Ban Gu, Fu Yi, Zhang Heng, and Cai Yong standing out among them. The emperor at that time particularly enjoyed seal carving, which led to the flourishing of epigraphy, which carried forward and celebrated the rich traditions of the past. Cao Zhi, Wang Can, Chen Lin, and Ruan Ji all had profound thoughts, standing firm like pillars in the literary realm; Pan Yue, Lu Ji, Zhang Xie, and Zuo Si excelled in ornate language, their works shining brilliantly like the feathers of a phoenix. These individuals walked with great strides, with an air of self-importance, standing shoulder to shoulder with the disciples of Confucius.
Although times have changed and literary styles have continuously evolved, it is akin to the Six Dynasties period, where despite the changes in regime, the cultural traditions continued; various schools of thought competed with one another, yet ultimately converged. Looking back at history and selecting those outstanding literary figures, it is clear that the literary achievements of the Han Dynasty attained their zenith.
Later, the Central Plains region was in constant turmoil as the Rongdi invaded, with impostors claiming to be emperors emerging one after another. The common people suffered greatly, and good writings became increasingly rare. However, even during the war, some writings occasionally surfaced amidst the turmoil. People like Lu Hui, Du Guang, Xu Guang, and Yin Bi were well-known in the Zhao Kingdom (later Zhao), while Song Yan, Feng Yi, Zhu Tong, and Liang Tang were highly regarded in the Yan and Qin Kingdoms. However, the articles they wrote were rushed and influenced by war, merely fulfilling practical needs. Documents and official papers were written fairly well, but in terms of expressing emotions or depicting scenery, they fell short. This was not due to their abilities, but rather the circumstances of the time!
Even in the remote northern regions, among the small barbarian tribes, Hu Yizhou's writings praising the capital were grand; in the small Hexi Corridor region, many scholars emerged who could rival their counterparts in the Central Plains. Liu Yanming's "Jiuquan Inscription" was elegant and refined. "In a city of ten households, there must be loyalty and trust." Confucius' words were not just casual remarks!
When the Wei Kingdom was established, firmly rooted in the north, controlling the Huai River and Yangtze River basins in the south, and occupying the Guanzhong and Longxi regions in the west, scholars like Xu Qian, Cui Hong, Cui Hao, Gao Yun, Gao Lu, and You Ya emerged one after another, with a solid reputation and actual talent. Their articles were elegant and refined, inheriting the excellent literary style of the Yongjia period (during the Western Jin Dynasty). By the Taihe period (during Wei Taihe), although the court began to appreciate literary elegance, truly exceptional writings were few and far between. It was as difficult as finding a needle in a haystack to find good articles, like riding in a carriage side by side yet seldom finding kindred spirits. Later, Yuan Fan's style was marked by clarity and elegance, while Chang Jing's was characterized by depth and profundity. Both were exceptional talents of their era!
When the Zhou family started out, they had a rough start, and the family fell on hard times. They wanted to inherit the family business but couldn't find suitable talents, which was quite frustrating. So, Su Liang, Su Chuo, Lu Rou, Tang Jin, Yuan Wei, and Li Chang all worked hard and eventually became high officials. However, Su Chuo suggested focusing on simplicity, leading to a rejection of the extravagant style of the Wei and Jin dynasties, instead imitating the simplicity and elegance of the Yu and Xia periods. Although his writings aligned well with the style of classical Chinese literature, this approach didn't fit the times, and thus it did not remain popular for long.
Later on, things changed quickly, and the palaces were torn down. Many skilled craftsmen from Jingzhou, Hengshan, Qixian, Zizhou, and the southeastern regions served the court. But only Wang Bao and Yu Xin really stood out for their talent, leading the trends of that era. At that time, Emperor Shizong also enjoyed writing poetry, and both Prince Teng and Prince Zhao were adept at writing essays; they built many magnificent palaces, like friends showing off to each other. As a result, both court officials and ordinary people got hooked on these fancy words and over-the-top writing styles, akin to hills looking up at Mount Song and Mount Tai, and rivers rushing toward the sea.
Zishan's literary style (referring to Yu Xin) originated in the late Song dynasty and reached its peak in the late Liang dynasty. His writings are known for their wild flair and grand style. Therefore, his articles can grab your attention but also come off as restless and superficial, similar to the music of Zheng and Wei. Yang Ziyun once said: "The works of poets are ornate and conform to norms; the works of lyricists are ornate and unrestrained." If we use this statement to evaluate Yu Xin, he would be seen as a sinner of lyrical writing.
The essence of writing lies in the author's emotions and temperament. Through deep contemplation, one can give rise to endless possibilities, and when articulated, it can be clear in structure and rich in content. Although poetry, essays, memorials, letters, and discourses each have their differences, overall, the most crucial elements are the article's momentum and the use of words to express ideas. To become an excellent writer, one must read widely from the Six Classics and the works of various schools of thought, and learn the writing techniques of notable figures such as Qu Yuan, Song Yu, Sima Xiangru, and Yang Xiong. The article's style should be elevated, the content profound, the reasoning coherent, and the language exquisite. Only then can it shine like exquisite gold and jade, and as refreshing as fragrant orchids. The article's style must be fitting, the length reasonable, weighing significance while delicately balancing ancient and modern influences, striking a balance between grandeur and elegance, like vibrant brocade and harmonious melodies. By doing so, one can reach the realm described by Wei Wendi as "a versatile talent capable of embodying the essence," and the state referenced by Shi Heng as "rare abilities capable of capturing intention."
