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There are many kinds of flowers worthy of liking on the water and the ground. Tao Yuanming in Jin Dynasty only liked chrysanthemums. Since the Tang Dynasty, most people in the world like peony. I only like lotus flowers-lotus flowers grow out of mud, but they are not polluted by mud; Wash with clear water, but it doesn't look enchanting; (Its stem) is hollow inside and straight outside, without (winding) vines and (also) without (escape) branches; The fragrance is far away and more fragrant; It stands upright and is clean in the water. It can be seen from a distance, but it can't be played at close range.

I think chrysanthemum is a hermit in flowers, peony is a rich one in flowers, and lotus is a gentleman in flowers. Few people like chrysanthemums after Tao Yuanming. Who else is like me for the love of lotus? Of course, there are many people who love peony!

Zhou Dunyi expresses his feelings through lotus flowers, expressing his disdain to go with the flow.