The author of "Wang Zhu's Book of Teaching Emperors and Learning" is Wang Zhu of the Song Dynasty. The vernacular text is as follows:
In the Taizong Dynasty, there was a king who studied Youjun calligraphy, mastered its method, and served in the Imperial Academy.
Vernacular: During the reign of Emperor Taizong of the Song Dynasty, a man named Wang Zhu studied Wang Xizhi's calligraphy. He soon deeply understood the essentials of it and was appointed Hanlin by Emperor Taizong.
While listening to the government, the emperor paid attention to his notes and sent several servants to hold the notes. Every time he wrote, he thought it was not good, so Taizong deliberately studied it.
Vernacular text: When Taizong was not dealing with government affairs, he liked to practice calligraphy. He once asked his servants to bring his works to Wang Zhu for review several times, but every time Wang Zhu said they were not good enough, so Taizong worked harder. Go practice.
I asked again, and it was the same as before. Or inquired about its meaning and wrote: "The calligraphy is solid and good. If it is suddenly praised as good, I am afraid that the emperor will no longer use it."
Vernacular text: Taizong once again asked the attendant to ask the king with his newly written calligraphy. Wang Zhu's answer was still the same as before. Someone asked Wang Zhu's intention, and Wang Zhu said: "The emperor's calligraphy is already very good, but if you say it is good right away, I'm afraid the emperor will no longer be as attentive as before."
Afterwards, The emperor's writing skills were exquisite, surpassing those of ancient times, and the world regarded them as the rules and benefits of his writing.
Vernacular: After this, Taizong's calligraphy was exquisite and surpassed many famous calligraphers in the past. People say that this was all due to Wang Zhu's encouragement.
Extended information
Enlightenment:
1. Taizong may have been interested in learning calligraphy, but he did it occasionally, so there is no need to take it seriously. But Wang Zhu is a serious person, and he is very strict, even a little harsh, towards students like the emperor. His attitude as a teacher (Wang Zhu) is worth learning from.
2. From Taizong's point of view, his learning attitude of not being ashamed to ask questions, practicing calligraphy unremittingly, studying hard, and finally achieving something is worthy of admiration.
3. The king has strict requirements, even the emperor is no exception. He is a strict teacher and friend, teaches well, and is good at tempting. Only by asking for advice humbly can we make progress.