Yanzi Chunqiu is a historical classic that records the words and deeds of Yan Ying, a statesman of Qi State in the Spring and Autumn Period. It is compiled from historical materials and folklore. The book records many examples in which Yan Ying advised you to be diligent, not to be greedy for pleasure, and to care for the people, to appoint talents, and to be self-effacing, which became an example for future generations to learn.

2. Introduction to the author

Yan Ying (578- 500 BC), a native of Shiping, was once known by his first name. Yi Weiren (now Gaomi, Shandong) was an important politician, thinker and diplomat in the Spring and Autumn Period. Yan Ying is clever and articulate. Assisting in state affairs, he advised the King of Qi many times. He is flexible and principled, and he is not humiliated when he goes abroad, thus safeguarding the national dignity and prestige of Qi. Sima Qian admired Yan Ying and compared him to Guan Zhong.