Qu Yuan’s aspirations

Many know that Qu Yuan (340-278 B.C.) was of noble character and had great ambitions, but due to his integrity, he suffered exile. He detested the world where slanderers thrived while honest people remained unrecognized. To vent his frustrations, he turned to divination.

It had been three years since Qu’s exile. Despite his utmost wisdom and loyalty, he was hurt by malicious accusations, unsure of which path to take. Thus, he sought an audience with the court diviner who was responsible for imperial divination, hoping for guidance. The diviner, Zhanyin, arranged the divination tools and prepared the tortoise shell. “What troubles you?” he inquired.

Qu adjusted his attire and asked: “Should I be plain, loyal and true in dealing with others, or should I seek to flatter and connive in order to rise to high positions? Should I toil diligently and reap what I sow, or should I engage in flattery to seek fame among the nobility?”

Qu continued: “Should I speak straightforwardly and offer earnest advice, or should I succumb to corruption and deceit for wealth and prestige? Should I remain aloof and preserve my nature, or should I fawn and grovel, seeking favor and advancement? Should I be upright, selfless and virtuous, or should I be cunning, spineless and dishonorable?”

Qu further asked: “Should I strive to be an exceptional talent or should I drift aimlessly, merely surviving? Should I labor alongside the finest steeds, carrying heavy loads over long distances, or should I mix with inferior ones? Should I aim to soar high like a swan or should I content myself with squabbling for food amid chickens and ducks?”

“Master, which of these choices bring fortune and which bring calamity? Where should I go and what should I do? Who can recognize my integrity and loyalty?” asked Qu.

After listening to Qu’s lament, Zhanyin silently set down the divination tools and said: “In all matters of this world, not every divination is effective. For someone like you, a man of noble aspirations, how could the tortoise shell and divining stalks comprehend? Act according to your heart and follow your desires. Why concern yourself with fortune or misfortune?” (Everyone has shortcomings; therefore, the rules of divination cannot truly fathom this matter.)

(The author is a cultural scholar.)

(Translated by Shenzhen Daily)