yì衣jǐn锦huán还xiāng乡
To return to one's hometown in glory after achieving great success or wealth, often with a sense of showing off or celebrating one's achievements before one's former neighbors.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Antonym:
Story:
Qian Liu, King Wusu of Wuyue, came from a poor family in his early years and faced financial hardship. Driven by the need to make a living, he joined the army, which unexpectedly led to his rise. He eventually established himself as a warlord, controlling thirteen prefectures of Wuyue and becoming a regional hegemon.
After achieving prominence, he decided to emulate Emperor Gaozu of Han by returning to his hometown in glory, intending to boast a little to his fellow villagers. Consequently, he ordered his hometown to be renamed 'Yijin Jun' (Brocade-Clad County) and extensively renovated his ancestral home and old gardens, building magnificent palaces and pavilions that were incredibly splendid for a time.
At the same time, he gathered relatives, old friends, and villagers for continuous feasting, singing, and dancing. He even draped the places where he played as a child with brocade and colorful silks, signifying that he hadn't forgotten his past. He also proudly instructed the villagers to spread his 'Hometown Return Song' everywhere to praise his achievements.
As a result, his hometown became a sensation, bustling with activity, with people saying that even Emperor Gaozu Liu Bang's 'Song of the Great Wind' couldn't compare to the commotion.