Volume 1 of Wielding the Whisk in the Five Hundred Stones Grotto

By Qiu Weiming of Haicheng

"Gentleness and sincerity" original: 溫柔敦厚 (wēnróu dūnhòu). A classic Confucian standard for poetry, suggesting that verse should be moderate and refined rather than harsh or inflammatory. are the substance of poetry; "to evoke, to observe, to socialize, and to express grievances" original: 興觀群怨 (xìng guān qún yuàn). These four functions of poetry originate from the Analects of Confucius, describing how poetry helps one stir the emotions, observe society, bond with others, and express dissatisfaction with injustice. are the applications of poetry. These eight characters have been treated as platitudes by old scholars and have become mere clichés. Yet, if one ponders them deeply, who among the writers and critics of poetry throughout the ages could establish a footing without these eight characters?

If one speaks abruptly of "gentleness and sincerity," people might not necessarily understand. But if one speaks of "evocation, observation, socialization, and grievances," there is no one who cannot understand. Elders have said that those beginning to study ancient prose should start with the category of logic and debate, while those learning poetry should start with five-character and seven-character ancient-style verse original: 五七古 (wǔ qī gǔ). These are traditional poetic forms with five or seven characters per line that are less structurally rigid than later "regulated verse," making them ideal for beginners to express their thoughts.; this is precisely because their intent is close to the principles of evocation, observation, socialization, and grievances.

The two characters for "merit and fame" original: 功名 (gōngmíng). While often used to mean worldly success or official rank, the author argues for its classical meaning: achieving "Three Immortalities" through virtue, service, and writing. refer to the titles of one who establishes virtue, establishes merit, and establishes words. How can those who write rotten examination essays original: 時文 (shíwén). Formulaic essays required for the imperial civil service examinations, often criticized by intellectuals as being devoid of real thought. or steal their way into the degree ranks compare? The Yangzhou Magistrate Zheng Banqiao Xie Zheng Xie (1693–1765), better known by his art name Banqiao, was a famous painter and poet known for his integrity and his "Three Perfections" (poetry, painting, and calligraphy). wrote in a letter to someone: "Even if I do not pass the provincial or metropolitan examinations now, I am still the same me." This statement most truly reflects his original heart. Today, commoners confuse "examination degrees" with "merit and fame." Gradually, even those who donate vast sums of gold to purchase titles or who are recommended for key positions through patronage are given this same title. In casual conversation about the affairs of the town or the capital, people inevitably say "So-and-so's merit..."