Source: Zhuangzi.

Selected paragraph:

The friendship between gentlemen is as light as water, and the friendship between villains is as good as ever.

Translation:

The communication between friends should be as clear as water without impurities. However, the friendship between villains is a kind of communication with interests as the link. Generally speaking, the gathering of interests will inevitably lead to the dispersion of interests.

Text interpretation

The interaction between small people often puts personal interests first. Sweet words push a cup for a change, which looks as good as wine, but this kind of communication is more out of personal demands. Because of the lack of sincerity, this wine can't stand the blow of wind and waves, and it comes for profit. When it is exhausted, it often screams that birds and animals are scattered. The so-called coming is also in a hurry, and the going is also in a hurry, with a sweet beginning and a bitter ending.

When Zhai Gong was in power, the family was crowded and the guests were like lanterns. But these people are all for his official position and power, and they are all thinking about seeking their own interests; Once Zhai Gong loses his official position, Zhai Gong, who has no power to back him up, has no use value, so there are fewer and fewer chariots and horses at her door, so she can catch them all.

This is a typical friendship between villains. No heavy friendship to pave the way. Everything starts from the reality of whether you are an official or not. Therefore, Zhaihung will have "one is expensive and one is cheap, and friendship is present." Sigh.