Chinese mythology, folktales, and literature
This page explores The Fisherman from Zhuangzi. A wise fisherman criticizes Confucius for exhausting himself pursuing ritual and righteousness. Advocating “valuing authenticity”, he stresses inner sincerity over hollow conventions, as Confucius humbly receives his Daoist teaching.
When Gong Xingzi was mourning the death of his son, You Shi (the Right Minister, Wang Huan, styled Zi Ao) came to offer condolences. As soon as he entered, some people stepped forward to speak with him, while others went directly to his seat to talk with him.