Introduction: Sima Xiangru was a famous literary figure in the Western Han Dynasty. His love story of eloping with Zhuo Wenjun, who was born into a wealthy family, is well-known throughout Chinese history. For over two thousand years, people have regarded their story as one of talented scholars falling in love. In modern times, many believe it to be a typical example of men and women seeking marital freedom in a feudal society.
So we can't help but ask: did Sima Xiangru really fall in love with Zhuo Wenjun and that's why he eloped with her? What kind of story lies between them? And what inspiration can today's college students or readers gain from their story?
Sima Xiangru and Zhuo Wenjun's first meeting
Relevant background and preparations
About Sima Xiangru: Sima Xiangru, originally named Sima Changqing, was from Chengdu in Shu Commandery. He loved reading books and learning swordsmanship when he was young, so his parents named him "Quanzi." After studying, he admired the character of Lin Xiangru and changed his name to Xiangru. He served Emperor Jing by buying an official position, becoming a cavalry attendant, which wasn't to his liking. Coincidentally, Emperor Jing didn't like poetry and prose at the time. Liang Xiaowang came to court, bringing along eloquent scholars such as Zou Yang from Qi, Mei Cheng from Huaiyin, and Zhuang Jiefu from Wu. Xiangru met them and was delighted, thus feigning illness to resign, traveling as a guest to Liang. Xiaowang ordered him to live with other scholars, allowing Xiangru to reside with various scholars for several years before composing the "Zixu Fu" (The Exaggerated Tale). - Records of the Grand Historian
At this point, Sima Xiangru's situation: With the death of Liang Xiaowang, Xiangru returned home to Chengdu, where his family was poor, and he had no means to support himself. - Records of the Grand Historian
After returning to Chengdu, unemployed and impoverished, Sima Xiangru frequently corresponded with his friend Wang Ji, the magistrate of Linqiong County. In his letters, he complained to his friend: "Brother, I'm unemployed now, my family is so poor there's no money for wine. Can you lend me a hand?" Wang Ji, the county magistrate, replied, "Changqing, you've been away from home for a long time, seeking office but not finding satisfaction. Why don't you come visit me?" In addition to discussing brotherly feelings in their correspondence, Wang Ji also shared some local gossip, telling Xiangru: "Although I'm just a small county magistrate, there are two rich families in my county—one surnamed Zhuo, the other Cheng. Especially the Zhuo family, they're incredibly wealthy, with eight hundred slaves alone. They have two daughters and one son. It seems the daughter-in-law passed away not long ago. The daughter is only seventeen and very fond of music. How about we work together? I'll help you, you take the shovel and dig, and we'll swindle some money for wine!" Xiangru thought about his own dashing image and renowned talents, believing the plan could succeed, so he decided on the details, since letters were inconvenient, and went to Linqiong County to discuss and strategize with Wang Ji.
About Zhuo Wenjun: Zhuo Wangsun's daughter Wenjun was newly widowed and fond of music. - Records of the Grand Historian
Wenjun was beautiful and fond of music. - Miscellaneous Records of the Western Capital
Regarding whether Zhuo Wenjun was beautiful, neither the Records of the Grand Historian nor the Book of Han made any mention. However, the Miscellaneous Records of the Western Capital described her as handsome. Sima Qian greatly admired Sima Xiangru, writing an exceptionally long biography of him, highly praising Xiangru's literary talent and reputation, and recording many of his works, including "Zixu Fu" and "Shanglin Fu." Perhaps Sima Qian didn't feel comfortable mentioning that Xiangru's wife was unattractive, so he omitted any physical description, or perhaps he simply overlooked it. There is no mention of Wenjun's appearance in the Book of Han either. The Miscellaneous Records of the Western Capital is an ancient Chinese anecdotal novel, documenting miscellaneous histories of the Western Han dynasty. It contains both historical records and many anecdotes of the Western Han. Its author is suspected to be Ge Hong. Since it is an anecdotal novel, its authenticity is questionable. I assume Zhuo Wenjun was a wealthy young woman, but of average looks.
At this point, Zhuo Wenjun's situation: Zhuo Wangsun's daughter Wenjun was newly widowed and fond of music. - Records of the Grand Historian
A seventeen-year-old young woman, at the most beautiful time of her life, had recently lost her husband and was living at her parents' house, especially fond of music. Judging by Wenjun's age, she had been married for no more than two to three years, possibly even less than a year. Such a young widow was considered "unlucky" in ancient China, believed to have a "husband-killing" fate. She returned to her parents' home, showing her inner sadness. We can imagine Wenjun's thoughts at the time: "I'm still so young! My interests are quite broad; I'm good at playing musical instruments, painting, and calligraphy. Tragic! I've only been married for a short while, and now he's gone. I don't even know what love is yet, and I haven't fully enjoyed the sweetness of marriage. What should I do?"
What did Sima Xiangru do after arriving in Linqiong County?
Magistrate Wang Ji pretended to respect Sima Xiangru greatly, visiting him daily. Initially, Xiangru still received him, but later claimed illness, sending messengers to decline Wang Ji's visits, making Wang Ji even more cautious and respectful. - Records of the Grand Historian
Xiangru had already agreed with his brother Wang Ji to stay at an inn in Linqiong County. Wang Ji pretended to show great respect for Xiangru, visiting daily, while Xiangru initially received him, but later completely ignored him, claiming illness whenever Wang Ji came to visit.
This was, of course, just a surface phenomenon. Why was Wang Ji so cooperative? Xiangru and Wang Ji were performing a double act, intended for whom?
Wang Ji and Sima Xiangru were close friends, and it was normal for Wang Ji to assist or rescue Sima Xiangru. But why was Wang Ji so enthusiastic? At that time, Sima Xiangru was already a famous scholar in the Western Han dynasty, while Wang Ji was merely a minor county magistrate. Although Sima Xiangru wasn't doing well at the time, who could guarantee that he wouldn't have a bright future? I think one reason was their friendship, and they needed to help each other out. The most important reason might be that Wang Ji believed his chances of advancing through his own abilities were slim, whereas Sima Xiangru was talented and had a promising future. If he were to receive imperial favor in the future, then as long as he remembered Wang Ji's efforts, his chances of advancement would be greatly increased. Cultivating this friendship was beneficial and harmless.
Sima Xiangru and Wang Ji were performing a double act for Zhuo Wangsun, Zhuo Wenjun's father. Zhuo Wangsun was one of the richest men in the country (based on Sima Qian's Records of the Grand Historian), always keeping a close eye on officials because officials and merchants were mutually dependent. The county magistrate's movements were closely monitored by this richest man, who needed to curry favor with these officials.
In today's society, being wealthy doesn't necessarily mean having power, but wealth can buy power. Wealthy people and officials alike hold high social status. However, in ancient China, among the four classes of scholars, farmers, artisans, and merchants, merchants were ranked last. No matter how wealthy they were, wearing silk and brocade, others looked down on them, thinking commerce was undignified and profit-driven, especially intellectuals who avoided associating with merchants. Learning leads to officialdom, and officials mostly came from educated people, thus holding higher status than even the richest merchant like Zhuo Wangsun. Therefore, Zhuo Wangsun curried favor with Magistrate Wang Ji, paying attention to his every move. When he saw the magistrate treating someone with such respect, he knew this person was extraordinary and must be treated well, intentionally currying favor. Even if they couldn't become friends, they mustn't become enemies. Thus, Zhuo Wangsun invited guests, and Sima Xiangru made a grand entrance, ultimately leading to Zhuo Wenjun secretly admiring him and eloping with Sima Xiangru overnight.
When did Sima Xiangru and Wang Ji start their double act? It began when Sima Xiangru arrived in Linqiong County. Where did he stay? In an inn in the city. Given Sima Xiangru's relationship with Wang Ji, Wang Ji certainly wouldn't let Sima Xiangru stay at an inn. He should have welcomed him into his home for proper hospitality, lest Sima Xiangru feel neglected and cause gossip. Letting him stay outside must have been intentional, thus creating the illusion that they were strangers. Wang Ji visited Sima Xiangru daily, each time showing great respect. Wang Ji was not just a bystander; he was a skilled actor, playing a significant role in Sima Xiangru's pursuit of Zhuo Wenjun. If Sima Xiangru and Zhuo Wenjun's love story needed a matchmaker, Wang Ji openly acted as their mediator, while Zhuo Wangsun unintentionally became their matchmaker.
During the days Sima Xiangru and Wang Ji performed their double act, everyone of rank in Linqiong County knew about Sima Xiangru. Sima Xiangru was waiting for Zhuo Wangsun's invitation, and Wang Ji continued to build momentum for him. As a wealthy young lady, Zhuo Wenjun, whether from her father or from servants, should have known that the talented Sima Xiangru was in Linqiong County. Zhuo Wenjun must have been excited to see her idol. Her father Zhuo Wangsun inviting Sima Xiangru to their home provided the opportunity. Even if she couldn't get an autograph or a photo, she could at least catch a glimpse of him from afar. Thus, naturally, there followed the scene of Sima Xiangru using music to win over Zhuo Wenjun.
Using Music to Win Over Wenjun
While Sima Xiangru and Wang Ji were performing their double act, they set a trap, and Zhuo Wangsun fell for it.
Once the order was given, hundreds of guests attended at the Zhuo residence. By midday, they summoned Sima Changqing, but Changqing declined due to illness and couldn't attend. - Records of the Grand Historian
To befriend this great scholar, Zhuo Wangsun invited Sima Xiangru to his home. Many people were invited, basically all the prominent figures in the county—either wealthy or officials—and of course, Wang Ji, the chief executive officer of Linqiong County, was also invited. The number of invitees was over a hundred, making the scene lively and magnificent. When all the guests had arrived, they finally invited Sima Xiangru, indicating Zhuo Wangsun's great respect for him. This reception standard was extremely high, almost presidential-level treatment.
Logically, with Zhuo Wangsun going to such lengths, Sima Xiangru should have given him this face, otherwise, how would he mix around here in the future?! But Sima Xiangru was unhelpful, saying he was sick and couldn't make it, declining the invitation. If it were someone today, even if they were sick, as long as they weren't dead, they'd probably rush over for a few drinks and then return home. Sima Xiangru was pretending to be aloof.
Seeing that he couldn't invite Sima Xiangru, Zhuo Wangsun wondered if it was because he was a merchant, lacking sufficient status, so he entrusted County Magistrate Wang Ji to personally invite him. This raised the standard even higher, leaving the impression that Sima Xiangru was someone unreachable, far above everyone else.
The County Magistrate Wang Ji personally invited Sima Xiangru, who was "reluctantly" forced to go to Zhuo Wangsun's home. All the guests present were amazed by his demeanor, realizing this handsome man was the legendary Sima Xiangru, truly radiant and dignified, a man of remarkable talent!
Sima Xiangru was indeed handsome, and through his cooperation with Wang Ji, he repeatedly built up his reputation, laying the groundwork for his grand entrance. Not only did his presence shock the full house of guests, but it likely captivated the rich young lady, Zhuo Wenjun, who was watching from the doorway.
At this point, Zhuo Wenjun had seen Sima Xiangru, but it still didn't count as their first real meeting because Sima Xiangru hadn't seen Zhuo Wenjun. Imagine a graceful scholar suddenly looking around for a woman—it would be too conspicuous and ruin their image, definitely not part of their plan.
Now that Zhuo Wangsun had fallen for the trap, it was time for Zhuo Wenjun to follow suit. The actions to pursue Zhuo Wenjun began, how did Wang Ji cooperate, and what did Sima Xiangru do?
As the wine feast reached its climax, County Magistrate Wang Ji stepped forward with a lute and said, "I heard that Master Changqing enjoys playing the lute. Would you play a tune for our entertainment?" Sima Xiangru politely declined, then played a couple of pieces. - Records of the Grand Historian
When the wine was flowing freely, County Magistrate Wang Ji approached and placed the lute in front of Sima Xiangru, saying, "I've heard that Master Changqing particularly loves playing the lute. We hope to hear a piece to add to the joy." Sima Xiangru had a speech impediment, which Wang Ji was aware of. To ensure the plan's success, Wang Ji allowed Sima Xiangru to showcase his strengths, playing the lute in front of everyone, including Zhuo Wenjun, aiming to win her affection or even her heart.
Sima Xiangru declined politely and then played one or two tunes. It's said that one of them was the famous "Phoenix Seeking the Phoenix," which has been sung for thousands of years.
Phoenix, oh phoenix, return to your hometown,
Roaming the four seas in search of your mate.
Unmet until now, unaware of the path ahead,
How enlightening to find myself in this hall!
There is a beautiful maiden in the chamber,
Her absence leaves me longing.
What fate binds us as mandarin ducks?
Why not soar together in harmony?
Phoenix, oh phoenix, rest with me,
Let us breed and remain forever as mates.
Our hearts beat in harmony, understanding deepens,
Who knows what awaits us in the midnight hours?
Together we rise, wings spread wide,
Do not let my thoughts sadden me.
Dressed in white, the elegant scholar Sima Xiangru played the lute with such passion and focus that Zhuo Wenjun, peeking through the door crack, was instantly captivated. She was drawn to his charm, talent, and demeanor, finding him as radiant and luminous as fireflies in the night or golden beetles in the rice fields. She developed admiration for him.
He was searching for a soulmate. Who was the soulmate? Among those present were only old gentlemen who didn't understand music. The soulmate could only be Zhuo Wenjun, Zhuo Wangsun's daughter, secretly watching and immersed in the music.
Wenjun was newly widowed and had always loved music. Thus, Sima Xiangru used the lute to express his admiration. After the banquet, Xiangru conveyed his feelings to Wenjun through her maid. There was no romantic rendezvous under the moonlight, but rather an arrangement of a meeting place and carriage, with a simple message: "If you are willing, I will wait for you at the inn tonight, and we will return to Chengdu together."
Given the circumstances, it was unlikely that Sima Xiangru and Zhuo Wenjun could unite through legitimate means, i.e., parental consent and arranged marriage, especially since Wenjun was newly widowed. Upon hearing Sima Xiangru's message, Zhuo Wenjun bit her lip and said, "For love, I am willing to take this risk!"
By evening, the noise of the banquet had subsided, and both host and guests had enjoyed themselves. As the master of the house, Zhuo Wangsun was surely drunk and was early led by servants to rest. The servants of the Zhuo household were busy tidying up or seeing off guests, and no one noticed a young woman quietly packing a small bundle and sneaking out the back door.
Wenjun fled to Sima Xiangru during the night. - Records of the Grand Historian
That night, Zhuo Wenjun secretly ran to the inn where Sima Xiangru was staying, determined to share hardships and life with him. The word "fled" reveals Wenjun's anxiety, her steadfastness in love, and her determination to give everything for it—precisely: one song of "Phoenix Seeking the Phoenix," and even a widow goes wild.
At this moment, Sima Xiangru had already prepared the carriage, waiting under the willow tree in front of the inn for Zhuo Wenjun. It was late at night, the moonlight was dim, but faintly visible was the elegant scholar dressed in white. Occasionally, the sound of hooves gently tapping the ground could be heard.
Sima Xiangru paced under the willow tree, seemingly preoccupied, constantly gazing toward the direction of the Zhuo residence. His face was as warm as jade, his eyebrows like mountains, his eyes profound, his lips sensual, but his brows slightly furrowed.
Sima Xiangru was confident in himself and equally confident in the plan. This plan took a lot of time and effort with his friend Wang Ji, performing for many days to achieve this crucial step—to capture Zhuo Tian Sun and elope with her.
But he was anxious inside, as he couldn't be entirely sure that Zhuo Wenjun would be captivated by him, or that she would leave her comfortable position to elope with him, or even that she wouldn't be caught and taken back by her father.
Waiting, waiting, apart from the heartbeat, there was only the soft sound of horse hooves.
Suddenly, he thought he heard footsteps.
Dimly visible was a petite figure, accompanied by the sound of hurried breathing, whether from excitement or running.
Wenjun, she's come!
Looking at the woman in front of him, carrying a small bundle and dressed in purple tight clothing, Sima Xiangru thought, "This must be the woman who's going to elope with me tonight. Hmm, although she's of average looks, I can still accept her. A little compromise won't hurt, considering the ultimate goal is to get money, and I'm not losing out."
Zhuo Wenjun ran towards the inn, seeing the white figure under the willow tree bathed in moonlight. Her cheeks flushed, and upon reaching near, she was shy and couldn't speak, her cheeks revealing a charming blush.
This was the first real encounter between Sima Xiangru and Zhuo Wenjun.
Sima Xiangru softly asked, "Miss Wenjun?"
Zhuo Wenjun timidly replied, "It's me, Master Sima!"
Sima Xiangru indifferently said, "Let's go!"
Zhuo Wenjun nodded heavily, letting Sima Xiangru take her hand and help her into the carriage. With a shout of "Gee up!", they rode away, leaving behind a trail of dust.