In 825 AD, Emperor Jingzong of the Tang Dynasty transferred Bai Juyi from his post as Hangzhou Governor to Suzhou Governor. Suzhou was the largest and most complex prefecture in the southeastern Tang region.

Upon his arrival, Bai Juyi politely declined all invitations to banquets and dedicated himself entirely to state affairs. He quickly familiarized himself with the local conditions, reformed the corrupt administration, and earned high praise from the common people.

He often reflected, believing that he was born with a certain degree of clumsiness or lack of natural talent, and therefore, he could only make up for it through unremitting diligence.