Chinese mythology, folktales, and literature
This commentary on Zhuangzi ‑ Renjianshi explores survival amid chaos and power. It explains key ideas: Fasting of the Mind, outward compliance, and the paradox that “uselessness brings great utility” to preserve inner integrity.
Lu Tong, the Madman of Chu, feigned madness to evade officialdom. He sang to dissuade Confucius from political pursuit, preaching the Daoist “utility of the useless”. Rejecting royal recruitment, he and his wife secluded themselves on Mount Emei.
A Chu hermit Jieyu sang a phoenix ballad to warn Confucius of perilous politics and urged retreat. Confucius stepped down to talk yet was avoided. It contrasts the hermit’s seclusion mindset with Confucius’ persistent, compassionate commitment to saving the world.