猛志常在 — “Fierce ambition always present”

The idiom "猛志常在" (Měng Zhì Cháng Zài) draws inspiration from two ancient Chinese myths, both cited by the Jin Dynasty poet Tao Yuanming to exemplify an unyielding will.

The first tale is about Jingwei. According to ancient legends, Yan Emperor's youngest daughter drowned in the East Sea. After her death, she transformed into a bird called Jingwei. Filled with an unyielding determination, Jingwei constantly carried twigs and pebbles from the distant Western Mountains to drop them into the vast East Sea, tirelessly attempting to fill it up. This act symbolized an endless endeavor to overcome an immense challenge.

The second tale features Xingtian. As recounted in "Shanhaijing - Overseas Western Classic," Xingtian challenged the Yellow Emperor for supremacy. Defeated, his head was severed and buried at Changyang Mountain. However, Xingtian's spirit was indomitable. He transformed his nipples into eyes and his navel into a mouth, then picked up his shield and axe, continuing to fight, symbolizing a spirit that fights on even after suffering a devastating loss.

The Jin Dynasty poet Tao Yuanming, moved by these tales, wrote: "Jingwei carried twigs to fill the vast East Sea; Xingtian, though headless, still wielded his shield and axe. Their immense ambitions are truly remarkable and worthy of praise." This verse perfectly encapsulates the essence of "猛志常在," celebrating a powerful and unwavering ambition that persists despite seemingly insurmountable obstacles or even death.