江郎才尽 — “To lose one's talent or inspiration”

The idiom "Jiang Lang Cai Jin" (""""""") originates from the story of Jiang Yan, a celebrated literary figure during the Southern Dynasties. In his youth, Jiang Yan was known for his exceptional talent in poetry and prose, earning high acclaim. However, as he grew older, his literary prowess began to wane. His later works lacked the brilliance and inspiration of his earlier writings, often appearing bland and uninspired. People started to notice this decline.

One popular legend attributes this to a dream Jiang Yan had while napping at Ye Pavilion. In his dream, a man named Guo Pu (another famous scholar) approached him and said, "Brother Wentong (Jiang Yan's courtesy name), I have a pen that has been with you for a long time. It's time it was returned to me!" Jiang Yan, in his dream, reached into his robe and produced a magnificent five-colored pen, which he then returned to Guo Pu.

It is said that from that moment on, Jiang Yan's literary wellspring dried up. He struggled to compose beautiful verses and compelling essays, finding himself utterly devoid of inspiration. Thus, the phrase "Jiang Lang Cai Jin" emerged to describe someone whose talent or creative ability has diminished or completely run out.