– By Zhang Hua (Western Jin Dynasty) The wren is but a tiny bird –Born among weeds and wild grasses,Raised beneath garden hedges.It flutters and gathers within ordinary spaces,Yet its needs for life are fully met.
— Luo Yin Do not complain of golden cage and wings cut short; The southern land is far warmer than the northwest. Don’t clearly speak if you listen to my exhort; You will offend if clearly your complaint’s expressed.
— Luo Yin Don’t try to make the muddy Yellow River clean! Could Heaven mirrored in the waves be clearly seen? How could a winding stream go up the Milky Way? Just out of Mount Kunlun, it is muddy like clay. In vain the emperor swore to narrow it down; Could a raft reach…
— Huang Chao When autumn comes, the Mountain-climbing Day is nigh; My flower blows when other blooms come to an end. In battle array its fragrance rises sky-high, The capital with its golden armor will blend.