[Source] "Biography of Zhang Rong" in the *History of the Southern Dynasties*.
[Meaning] To live under someone else's roof. It is a metaphor for depending on others for one's livelihood.
[Historical Anecdote]
Zhang Rong was a man of the Southern Dynasties. Although his appearance was unremarkable, he was exceptionally intelligent and excelled in poetry, literature, painting, and calligraphy, particularly in wild cursive script. His works were unconventional and uniquely styled. In his conduct, he was lofty and transcendent, associating only with those of genuine talent and insight. Otherwise, he would not even acknowledge the nobility and aristocracy. Emperor Xiao Daocheng of the Southern Dynasties greatly admired Zhang Rong when he served as Grand Marshal under the previous dynasty. Xiao Daocheng's mastery of military strategy and outstanding literary talent earned Zhang Rong's respect, and thus the two became close friends. After Xiao Daocheng established the Southern Qi dynasty and ascended the throne, they still frequently discussed various issues within the realms of literature and art.
One day, the two were discussing calligraphy again. After evaluating the distinctive styles of several famous calligraphers, the emperor commented on Zhang Rong's work, saying, "Your calligraphy possesses considerable strength and character, but it still lacks the rules and standards of the 'Two Wangs' (Wang Xizhi and Wang Xianzhi)." Zhang Rong smiled and replied, "Your Majesty sees only that Zhang Rong lacks the standards of the Two Wangs, but fails to see that the Two Wangs also lack Zhang Rong's standards!" The emperor was startled by this, then pointed at Zhang Rong and laughed, saying, "Only you could utter such a strange remark! Well then, explain your reasoning." Zhang Rong said, "A true man stands between heaven and earth. He should be like Confucius, who edited the *Book of Songs* and *Book of Documents*, and established the *Book of Rites* and *Book of Music*—pioneering new paths and creating a unique style. His works must possess an utterly distinctive character and method. How could he merely follow old conventions, repeat others' ideas, and live under someone else's roof? I have not failed to absorb the standards of the Two Wangs; I have already transformed them into my own standards. The pity is that the Two Wangs cannot absorb my standards and transform them further." The emperor had no choice but to nod in admiration upon hearing this.
[Growing Insight]
Zhang Rong's calligraphy, which refused to imitate predecessors and was uniquely his own, earned him widespread acclaim. For young people, it is important to learn independence and abandon a dependent mindset. Indeed, dependency is a common human tendency; no one can live entirely without relying on others. Being respectful of others and open to their advice is also perfectly acceptable. However, if one lacks initiative in everything and constantly depends on others, that is a problem to be mindful of. On life's long journey, relying solely on others is insufficient.
Only by abandoning dependency, summoning the courage for self-reliance, stepping out of the误区 of excessive dependence on others, independently handling one's own affairs, enjoying the fruits of one's labor, fulfilling one's responsibilities, and being master of oneself—only then can one be a true strong individual in life.
"Living under Someone Else's Roof: Learn Independence and Abandon Dependency"