Describes someone or something that possesses immense power, influence, or popularity, often to the extent of being overwhelming, unapproachable, or highly coveted.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Story:
During the Tang Dynasty, Emperor Xuanzong, who was once a capable ruler, began to neglect his duties after appointing Li Linfu as prime minister, leading to political corruption. In 745 AD, he elevated Yang Yuhuan to imperial concubine, indulging in lavish lifestyles, and the government grew increasingly corrupt.
Yang Guifei's cousin, Yang Guozhong, also rose rapidly through the ranks due to her favor, becoming a censor and later named 'Guozhong' (meaning ' loyal to the country') by the Emperor. After Li Linfu's death, Emperor Xuanzong appointed Yang Guozhong as prime minister, entrusting him with all state affairs. Suddenly, the Yang family wielded immense power, forming factions and creating chaos in the court, which eventually led to the An Lushan and Shi Siming rebellions.
However, at that time, the Yang siblings lived in extreme luxury and extravagance. In 753 AD, the Yang family's spring outing and feast by the Qujiang River caused a sensation. The poet Du Fu, outraged by their self-indulgence and disregard for the common people, wrote the famous poem 'A Song of Fair Ladies', boldly exposing and satirizing the Yang family's extravagant life and prominent power. The lines "炙手可热势绝伦，慎莫近前丞相嗔！" (Hot enough to burn one's hand, their power is unparalleled; beware not to approach, lest the Prime Minister be angered!) vividly depict their overwhelming influence and haughty demeanor, warning against getting too close to avoid incurring their wrath.