Chapter 875 : Seeking a Favor

• Upon hearing this, Bai Donglin raised his wine cup and said to Xu Shaochuan, "Great minds think alike! It's rare that we haven't seen each other for over twenty years, yet we can still be so open with each other. Come, let's have a cup of tea instead of wine today, and start with a toast."
• These words surprised Xu Shaochuan, who quickly picked up his tea cup and clinked it with Bai Donglin's.
• The two of them drank their tea, finishing it in one gulp. Bai Donglin then said, "This Donglin style I developed is based on the Thin Gold style of Emperor Huizong of the Song Dynasty. Over thirty years ago, I happened to come across a local chronicle written by Emperor Huizong at the Jiangling Museum. His brushwork was delicate and refined, yet still vigorous, leaving me in awe. After returning, I carefully studied and improved upon the Thin Gold style, incorporating my own thoughts, and created this Donglin style. However, the members of the Calligraphy Association think that my Donglin style lacks charm and elegance, and is not aesthetically pleasing enough. I don't really mind though. If they can't appreciate it, there will always be someone who can. If no one appreciates it, then I'll appreciate it myself. It's a kind of self-satisfaction, like the spirit of Ah Q."