On Criticism - Han Yu
/原毁 - 韩愈/
Examining the Roots of Censure and Self-Cultivation
或曰：「子讳学乎！」
Some say, “Do you conceal your learning?”
曰：「然。予本非植此，取诸自立。非敢自有所谓自是者。」
I reply, “Indeed. I did not come by it naturally; I earned what I have by my own effort. I dare not claim inherent correctness.”
然则世之毁誉，予岂能逃？
But how could I hope to escape the world’s slander or praise?
夫毁誉者，众心是非之所系也。
For condemnation or commendation arises from the public sense of right and wrong.
苟予有实，安在乎彼之毁？苟予无实，又安在乎彼之誉？
If I stand upon truth, why should I worry about their censure? If I lack it, why should I rejoice in their praise?
人之怀是非者，苟在我而不在彼，则何忧何惧？
When one’s sense of right and wrong is rooted within oneself rather than in others, what anxiety or fear remains?
是以君子修其独，审其行，言不阿世，事不苟容。
Thus the noble person refines his inner integrity and examines his deeds. He does not speak merely to flatter worldly tastes, nor act merely for outward acceptance.
苟有同道者，则相与砥砺；无同道者，则孤而不悔。
If others share his path, they spur one another on. If none share it, he remains solitary yet unashamed.
嗟乎！毁誉之来，终不可御，唯道是从耳。
Alas! No one can fully control how others will blame or praise, so one must simply abide by the Way.
Some say, “Do you conceal your learning?”
曰：「然。予本非植此，取诸自立。非敢自有所谓自是者。」
I reply, “Indeed. I did not come by it naturally; I earned what I have by my own effort. I dare not claim inherent correctness.”
然则世之毁誉，予岂能逃？
But how could I hope to escape the world’s slander or praise?
夫毁誉者，众心是非之所系也。
For condemnation or commendation arises from the public sense of right and wrong.
苟予有实，安在乎彼之毁？苟予无实，又安在乎彼之誉？
If I stand upon truth, why should I worry about their censure? If I lack it, why should I rejoice in their praise?
人之怀是非者，苟在我而不在彼，则何忧何惧？
When one’s sense of right and wrong is rooted within oneself rather than in others, what anxiety or fear remains?
是以君子修其独，审其行，言不阿世，事不苟容。
Thus the noble person refines his inner integrity and examines his deeds. He does not speak merely to flatter worldly tastes, nor act merely for outward acceptance.
苟有同道者，则相与砥砺；无同道者，则孤而不悔。
If others share his path, they spur one another on. If none share it, he remains solitary yet unashamed.
嗟乎！毁誉之来，终不可御，唯道是从耳。
Alas! No one can fully control how others will blame or praise, so one must simply abide by the Way.
Although “原毁” (On Criticism or On Slander) is an essay rather than a traditional poem, Han Yu’s eloquent, concise style carries a distinctly poetic power. In this piece, he tackles the topic of “毁” (slander or criticism)—and by extension, the fickle nature of fame and blame in society.
**Context and Summary**
Han Yu wrote during the Tang Dynasty, a period celebrated for its rich literary heritage. Known as a master of both prose and poetry, Han Yu devoted much of his writing to Confucian moral principles. “原毁” exemplifies his characteristic mixture of philosophical reflection, ethical admonition, and personal insight.
Han Yu begins by quoting the remarks of detractors—people who claim he is hiding or “concealing” his learning. He answers matter-of-factly that his knowledge is self-acquired rather than an innate gift. With this admission, he reminds us that true learning requires effort, humility, and introspection.
From there, the essay delves into how praise and blame (毁誉) operate in human society. Han Yu contends that if one’s actions are rooted in genuine understanding and moral grounding, external opinions—be they slander or applause—ultimately hold little power to unsettle one’s sense of self-worth. Conversely, if one has no substance or virtue, public praise proves hollow. In either scenario, Han Yu urges us to center our motivations on truth and uprightness, rather than chasing or fearing what others may say.
**Key Themes**
1. **Inner Integrity**: Han Yu stresses that true confidence and moral resilience come from self-examination and honest effort, not from pleasing others.
2. **Nature of Criticism**: Public opinion is ever-shifting and often beyond personal control. Attempting to manipulate or evade it can entangle one in endless anxiety.
3. **Primacy of the Way (道)**: Han Yu’s language carries Confucian echoes. By upholding the Way—ethical conduct, virtuous thinking, and right action—one can transcend the ebbs and flows of external judgment.
4. **Steadfast Character**: For the noble-minded individual (君子), being alone in conviction is not a cause for shame or regret, as long as that conviction aligns with moral truths.
**Relevance to Modern Readers**
In a world dominated by social media and instantaneous judgments, Han Yu’s counsel rings especially pertinent. The pursuit of “likes” and popular opinion can distract from meaningful self-development. When we focus on consistent moral practice—on being sincere, informed, and compassionate—criticism or praise from others loses its capacity to define us. At the same time, Han Yu does not suggest contempt for all feedback. Rather, he emphasizes the importance of discernment, urging us to remain open to constructive critique while resisting shallow flattery or baseless attacks.
**Philosophical Underpinnings**
Drawing on Confucian influences, Han Yu weaves together self-cultivation and social responsibility. A harmonious society, in Confucian thought, depends on individuals who look inward, refine themselves, and then enact these virtues publicly. If one is easily swayed by fleeting applause or crippled by slander, one’s core cannot stabilize or influence others. By embracing self-knowledge, one not only achieves personal peace but also contributes positively to the broader community.
**Conclusion**
“原毁” stands as a timeless call to steadfastness and genuine conduct. Whether navigating ancient court intrigues or modern online communities, Han Yu’s words remind us that all external clamor—whether supportive or critical—should never overshadow the deeper moral compass within. In a single short essay, he distills the essence of responsible and resilient scholarship: rely on truth, question yourself honestly, and hold steady to your course, regardless of passing judgments.
Key points
• True self-worth arises from moral character rather than public opinion.
• Learning is a product of diligent effort, not inherent talent.
• Praise or blame is ultimately uncontrollable; one’s duty is to follow what is right.
• Genuine integrity means refusing to compromise one’s values for social acceptance.