空洞无物 — “Devoid of content”

Zhou Gu, courtesy name Boren, was a high-ranking official during the Eastern Jin Dynasty. From a young age, he was skilled in conversation, and as an adult, he became quite renowned. His speech was often humorous and witty, and he was known for his magnanimous character, never dwelling on trivial matters. People at the time praised him for his 'great magnanimity and extraordinary fraternity.' Due to his talent, character, and high reputation, he held the position of Shangshu Zuo Pushe (Left Vice-Minister), which, however, caused dissatisfaction and jealousy in his younger brother, Zhou Song.

One day, while the brothers were drinking, Zhou Song, in a drunken state, threw a lit candle at Zhou Gu. Zhou Gu merely dodged slightly, his expression remaining perfectly calm and showing no anger. He slowly remarked, 'Ah Nu, throwing a candle at me is truly a foolish move.'

During the Eastern Jin Dynasty, a trend of 'pure conversation' (清谈, qingtan) was popular among some literati. These scholars would gather to drink wine and express their opinions, focusing on their individuality and character while often disregarding etiquette. Zhou Gu's home was a frequent gathering place for drinks and discussions. Among his close acquaintances was Wang Dao, the Chancellor who helped establish the Eastern Jin Dynasty. Both the Zhou and Wang families were prominent clans from the Central Plains, fostering a deep personal friendship between Zhou Gu and Wang Dao.

On one occasion, Wang Dao and Zhou Gu were engaged in a very congenial and increasingly joyful conversation. In his delight, Wang Dao became somewhat unrestrained, leaning sideways and resting his head on Zhou Gu's lap. He pointed at Zhou Gu's slightly protruding belly and jokingly asked, 'What do you have inside this belly?' Zhou Gu straightened up, patted his stomach, and humorously replied, 'Inside here? Nothing at all, it is 'empty and devoid of substance.' However, it's spacious enough to hold hundreds of people like yourself, I suppose.'