"Seven Steps to Compose a Poem" originates from A New Account of Tales of the World: Literature by Liu Yiqing of the Southern Song Dynasty. It tells how Cao Zhi, under coercion from his elder brother Cao Pi, was forced to compose a poem within seven steps or face severe punishment. Cao Zhi promptly produced the verse: "Beans are boiled to make soup, and strained to extract juice. The beanstalks burn beneath the cauldron, while the beans weep within. We were born from the same root—why the urgent torment?" The idiom derives from this story, describing a person of quick literary wit who can complete a poem or piece of writing in an extremely short time. Its deeper meaning refers not only to a surge of literary inspiration, but also to the extraordinary ability to remain calm under immense pressure and swiftly demonstrate one's talent. It is mostly used in a commendatory sense, praising others for outstanding talent and rapid response, and commonly appears in contexts such as literature, examinations, and debates. Culturally, it reflects ancient China's admiration for literary talent as well as the tragic overtones of rivalry between brothers, carrying both admiration for brilliance and an implicit critique of coercive behavior. In modern usage, it often describes someone with a nimble mind who can compose with effortless fluency.
📝 Example
1. In the debate, facing his opponent's sharp questions, he could compose a poem in seven steps, quickly giving a brilliant response. (Describing quick wit and rapid reactions)
2. When inspiration struck, this writer could compose a poem in seven steps, conceiving a beautiful prose piece in just a few minutes. (Describing fast creative speed and outstanding talent)