Wu Song Slays the Tiger

In the classic Chinese novel Water Margin, one of the most enthralling tales is Wu Song’s epic battle against a ferocious tiger, a story that has captivated audiences for centuries with its blend of courage, drama, and larger - than - life heroism.​

The Tavern Challenge​

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One sweltering day, after a long and arduous journey, Wu Song, a burly and fearless warrior, stumbled upon a humble tavern at the foot of Jingyang Ridge. His throat parched and his body fatigued, he pushed open the creaking door and entered. Above the door hung a sign that read “No one crosses the ridge after three bowls,” a warning about the potent liquor served within. Undeterred by the caution, Wu Song boldly ordered bowl after bowl. The tavern keeper, amazed by the man’s capacity, tried to dissuade him, saying that few could handle more than three bowls, but Wu Song merely laughed heartily and continued to drink. In the end, he polished off eighteen bowls of the strong, fiery liquor, his cheeks flushed and his spirit invigorated.​

The Defiant Journey​

As Wu Song staggered out of the tavern and began his ascent up the ridge, a local official rushed to stop him. With a grave expression, the official warned that a man - eating tiger had been terrorizing the area, claiming the lives of many travelers. He urged Wu Song to wait until morning and cross the ridge with a group for safety. But Wu Song, brimming with confidence in his own strength and skills, scoffed at the idea. He waved off the official’s concerns and stubbornly continued his solitary journey, his steps unsteady yet determined.​

The Fateful Encounter​

When Wu Song reached the middle of the ridge, the effects of the alcohol began to hit him hard. Dizzy and drowsy, he found a large, flat stone slab and decided to lie down for a rest. Just as he closed his eyes, a deafening roar shattered the silence. A huge, menacing tiger with a white - striped forehead and eyes that glowed like embers leaped out from the thick bushes. Its sharp claws glinted in the sunlight, and its mouth foamed with saliva as it prepared to pounce.​

The Desperate Struggle​

Caught off guard, Wu Song quickly reached for his wooden staff, but in his haste, he swung too wildly and the staff hit a tree, shattering into pieces. With no weapon left, Wu Song had to rely solely on his bare hands. With lightning - fast reflexes, he dodged the tiger’s first fierce lunge, then grabbed hold of the tiger’s top - flowered skin on its forehead. Using all his strength, he pinned the struggling beast to the ground. The tiger thrashed about, kicking up dirt and leaves, but Wu Song held on tightly. Summoning every ounce of his remaining energy, he rained powerful punches down on the tiger’s head, one after another.​

The Victorious End​

After dozens of bone - crunching blows, the tiger finally stopped struggling. Its eyes glazed over, and its body went limp. Wu Song, exhausted but triumphant, stood over the defeated beast, breathing heavily. His hands were bloodied, and his clothes were torn, but a sense of pride and accomplishment filled his heart. Word of Wu Song’s heroic feat of killing the tiger single - handedly spread like wildfire. He became an instant legend, a symbol of unparalleled courage and strength in Chinese culture. His story has been told and retold through generations, continuing to inspire awe and admiration in all who hear it.