In Confucius’ time, how well one understoodThe Book of Songswas a sign of his social status and cultural attainment. If one did not study it, one would find it difficult to improve one’s ability to express oneself and to converse with people of high social status. Confucius’ elaboration on the relationship between studying TheBook of Songsand social interaction actually expounds on the importance of literature in education.

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Confucius was standing alone in the cultural hall when his son Boyu walked across the front yard. Confucius asked, “Have you studiedThe Book of Songs?” “Not yet,” was the reply. Confucius then said, “If you do not study it, you will not be able to express yourself properly.” (The Analects)