To compose a lengthy piece of writing with great speed and brilliant literary talent, often implying quick wit and exceptional ability.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Story:
During the Eastern Jin Dynasty, Xie Shang, the Governor of Yuzhou, recognized Yuan Hu's exceptional literary talent and recommended him to Grand Marshal Huan Wen. Huan Wen then appointed Yuan Hu to be in charge of drafting official documents for his residence.
Yuan Hu once composed 'Ode to the Eastern Expedition' praising many famous scholars of the Eastern Jin.
Later, when Yuan Hu accompanied Huan Wen on a northern expedition, Huan Wen asked him to write a declaration of war on the front lines. Yuan Hu, leaning against his horse, quickly composed a fitting and eloquent declaration. This feat gave rise to the idiom '倚马千言' (yǐ mǎ qiān yán).