宝剑锋从磨砺出，梅花香自苦寒来。
The sharp edge of a sword comes from grinding; the fragrance of plum blossoms comes from bitter cold.
—— 佚名
Source: 警世贤文(Wise Sayings)
Background
This is an ancient maxim often used to encourage people to persist through difficulties and achieve success through tempering.
Interpretation
A sword's sharpness comes from repeated grinding, and plum blossoms' fragrance comes from enduring bitter cold. This metaphor suggests that human talent and character are formed through arduous tempering.
Quote Information
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