A Translation in Yan Zhenqing's On the Twelve Meanings of Zhang Changshi's Style

Zhenqing further asked, "I was lucky enough to learn the rules of using a pen from Zhang Xu, a calligrapher in the Tang Dynasty. I take the liberty to ask you, where is the secret of conquering calligraphy and how to reach the same level as the ancients? " Zhang Xu said: "The secret is to write, let it rotate smoothly, and don't let it be bound;" Secondly, know the rules, dictate the tricks, and don't disobey the statutes. This is the rule of using pen. The second is arrangement, not slow or fast, and clever use is the best. Secondly, pen and paper should be good. Secondly, flexibility is suitable for the mind, and vertical control has rules. All five, and then we can reach the level of the ancients. "