The flowers of water, land and vegetation are very lovely. Tao Yuanming of Jin Dynasty only loved chrysanthemums. Since Li Tang, people have loved peonies very much. I only love the lotus that emerges from the mud but is not stained, washes the ripples clear without being evil, is straight in the middle and has no vines or branches.
I say chrysanthemum, the flower that represents seclusion; peony, the flower that represents wealth and honor; lotus, the flower that represents the gentleman. Alas! The love of chrysanthemum is rarely heard of after Tao. Who can share the love of the lotus? The love of peony is suitable for everyone!