This entry explains idiom “Pao ding jie niu” from Zhuangzi ‑ Yangshengzhu. Derived from Cook Ding’s ox‑butchering parable, it praises effortless mastery by following natural patterns instead of using brute force.
Mao Zedong – December 1961 (Reading Lu You’s Ode to the Plum Blossom, I reverse its mood) Wind and rain have sent spring on its way;Flying snow ushers spring back to stay.Hundreds of feet of ice cling to the cliff’s steep face –Yet still a blossom blooms, with graceful grace.
The poor man sweeps his floor until it is spotless. The poor woman combs her hair until it is neat and tidy. Neither produces a wonderful sight, but these actions bespeak a sensibility of elegance.