Great Song Dynasty Writer

Chapter 143 Hardships and Perseverance Lead to Success

Some cited classical texts to explain the "fundamental purpose of the state" of the salt and iron monopoly; others lamented the corruption of officials that led to "competing with the people for profit"; still others attempted to reconcile the two sides by proposing a reform strategy of "strict governance of officials and benefiting border merchants".

Opinions differ, and levels of understanding vary.

When it was Lu Beigu's turn, everyone's attention was focused on him because his "On the Six States" was indeed very famous in the Luzhou State School.

Lu Beigu cleared his throat, his voice clear: "In my opinion, the key to discussing the benefits of salt and iron and the suffering of the people lies in the words 'measure' and 'law.' The benefits of salt and iron are the lifeblood of the nation. Ancient wise ministers such as Guan Zhong and Sang Hongyang were well aware of this, which is why they were able to enrich the country and strengthen the army. However, this benefit is like a double-edged sword. If used properly, the country will be prosperous and the people will be at peace. If used improperly, the people will suffer."

He paused briefly, his gaze sweeping over the crowd, before continuing, “What constitutes excess? First, it lies in unclear laws and ineffective tax collection. Although the imperial court has established laws, local officials either slack off or take advantage of the situation to profit, extorting money at every level, resulting in high prices and low quality of official salt, forcing the people to consume smuggled salt. This is the predicament of the law not being enforced at the lower levels. Second, it lies in the imbalance of burdens and disregard for the people's livelihood. The military supplies on the border are indeed heavy, but if we exhaust resources and disregard the capacity of the people in the interior to bear the burden, and forcibly collect taxes and levies, then as Guanzi said, ‘When the granaries are full, people know etiquette; when they are well-fed and clothed, they know honor and shame.’ If the people are deprived of their sustenance, they will suffer hardship and resentment, and the foundation of the nation will be shaken.”

"Therefore, in my opinion, the solution to this predicament lies not in abolishing the monopoly, but in 'clarifying the laws and regulations, strictly governing officials, and equalizing the burdens.' We must understand the local conditions and the different rates of taxation in different regions, so that the benefits go to the country and the people can have a chance to breathe. Only in this way can we achieve the real effects of 'benefiting the country' and 'facilitating the people.'"

Lu Beigu's discourse demonstrates a profound understanding of classic policies, while also transcending the pitfalls of mere criticism or defense. He identifies the core contradiction between "measure" and "law" and offers three specific solutions closely aligned with classical texts and historical facts: "clarifying laws and regulations, strictly governing officials, and balancing the severity of punishments." These solutions are grounded in historical evidence and demonstrate pragmatic considerations, making them logically rigorous and well-structured.

After he finished speaking, the school building fell silent.

Cui Wenjing clapped first: "Excellent! The words 'measure' and 'law' hit the nail on the head! The proposals on 'equal weight' and 'differentiation between abundance and scarcity' are even more prudent! This argument not only demonstrates a deep understanding of classics and history, but also shows talent for governing the world!"

As a seasoned veteran of the imperial examinations, he knew all too well how difficult it was to be able to stay focused on the topic, cite classical texts, and offer practical and insightful perspectives in such a short time.

This skill far exceeded his expectations when he first met Lu Beigu.

Zhou Mingyuan, as the introducer, wore a proud smile and patted Lu Beigu's shoulder forcefully: "Brother Lu's precise analysis and lofty vision far surpass ordinary self-sacrifice. Your citations and references are spot-on; even among the best self-sacrifice scholars, this is an excellent argument! I admire you!"

"Yes! The sophistication of this argument and the precision of its citations are far beyond what one would expect from a freshman at the state school."

A student who had previously had some doubts about Lu Beigu's abilities completely changed his mind and couldn't help but say, "He's like a veteran who's been in the state school for many years! No wonder he almost made it into the top dormitory in the dormitory selection exam. His essay writing skills are truly remarkable!"

Experts will know if there is one as soon as they take action.

Although Lu Beigu's examination poems were not particularly outstanding among those of the state school, his policy essays were truly exceptional.

This newly promoted middle school student has already proven himself to be a force to be reckoned with since his first appearance. His strategic thinking ability is even showing signs of being on par with the top middle school students.

Therefore, the top students in Luzhou State School truly began to value Lu Beigu's abilities, rather than just considering him as someone with a reputation.

Despite the stares of the crowd, Lu Beigu remained humble.

He bowed to those around him and said, “You flatter me. I am but a novice. What I said just now was something I had learned from my reading. I hope that President Cui and all of you will not hesitate to point out any shortcomings.”

He knew perfectly well that his current strength came not only from his knowledge as a transmigrator, but also from his almost self-destructive studying over the past few months, as well as Mr. Baisha's guidance. His abilities had indeed improved compared to before the dormitory exam. However, he still preferred to appear humble to avoid incurring the envy of most people.

Cui Wenjing composed himself, suppressing his admiration, and said seriously, "Brother Lu, there's no need for such modesty. Your discussion today has been very enlightening for us as well. With Brother Lu joining us, our Guanlan Society will indeed be like a tiger with wings!"

His gaze swept over the crowd, returning to the focus of the discussion.

"Gentlemen, Brother Lu's point is excellent. We can now begin our discussion on the three strategies of 'clarifying laws and regulations, strictly governing officials, and balancing punishments,' combining them with what you have just said. We should engage in in-depth debate and supplementation to ensure that we thoroughly understand this issue!"

The atmosphere of the discussion became even more enthusiastic with Lu Beigu's participation and outstanding performance.

Lu Beigu also actively participated in the discussion and humbly sought advice.

He eagerly absorbed the experience accumulated by these top state school students, as well as their understanding of the testing styles of other state schools.

Upon learning that this year's joint examination for the four states was set by Chia-Chou, and after discussing the questions for each subject and figuring out the style of Chia-Chou's state school, Lu Bei-Gu felt much more at ease.

It was late at night when the rally ended.

As the crowd dispersed, the summer heat subsided, and a cool night breeze brought a touch of coolness.

As Zhou Mingyuan walked side by side with Lu Beigu, he couldn't help but exclaim again, "Brother Lu, others may not be able to tell, but I feel that your progress this month is frighteningly fast! It seems that Mr. Baisha's teachings, coupled with your reckless drive, have truly been effective."

Lu Beigu looked up at the cold crescent moon above the state academy, then glanced back at the lights that had just been extinguished in the west study, a smile appearing on his lips: "Brother Zhou, you flatter me. The road ahead is long, and my foundation is still shallow. Only by working harder can I live up to this precious time and the high expectations of my teachers."

Zhou Mingyuan continued, "Have you been studying so hard these past few days because you really intend to get your quota this year?"

Lu Beigu nodded and said, "Life is like a journey where every step is slower than the last. If I miss this year's state examination, I'm afraid I'll regret it for the rest of my life."

For Lu Beigu, the most important thing at hand is the upcoming joint examination of the four states.

Only by breaking into the top 100 there to prove themselves can they obtain the "intensive training" stepping stone to the next level, and finally leap over the dragon gate in the state examination to win that crucial quota!
So recently, he has not only completed the assignments given by Mr. Baisha on time, but has also added extra work for himself!
Every day was tough, but Lu Beigu knew very well that it was these tough days that would pave the way for a bright future.

The saying "Adversity makes one stronger" is roughly true.

Soon, the day of the four-state joint exam arrived.

(End of this chapter)