reasons Ji Kang (223-262 CE) gives for not becoming a Confucian government official
“There are seven things about serving the court that I could never tolerate, and two things I do that would not be permitted…
The seven things are:
I like to stay in bed late and ignore calls to rise. I enjoy playing the lute and singing, fishing, and wandering in the countryside. How could I feel at ease with government attendants always at hand? I would have to sit still respectfully for long periods although I am by nature restless, and I like scratching when bitten by lice. But how would this be possible when wrapped in official robes and paying my respects to my superiors? I hate writing letters and ignore my correspondence. Fifth, I detest attending funerals, although they are treated with the utmost seriousness by the worldly. I could not help offending people and they might want revenge. I could make a show of weeping but would be unconvincing and be disparaged for it. Then, too, I despise common men and could not tolerate working with them or socialising with them at banquets, having to listen to their prattle and observe their carryings-on. And finally, I have no patience for official tasks and could not tolerate the cares and worries that go with office.
The two things that would never be permitted are:
I criticise Confucius and the sage kings he praises. I would be found severely wanting by ‘proper’ society for this. I am also given to saying whatever I think. This, too, is forbidden.”
