The phrase 'Success at First Attempt' is deeply rooted in the core of Chinese culture, reflecting the characteristics of traditional culture from symbolic representation, value orientation to cultural expression:
1. Cultural symbolism of the horse: Since ancient times, China has viewed the horse as 'the leader of livestock', embodying speed, strength, and loyalty. It is also the core carrier of transportation and military in agricultural civilization—war horses symbolize victorious battles, and messenger horses represent the transmission of information. The imagery of 'horse' itself carries the expectation of 'efficient achievement', laying the symbolic foundation for 'Success at First Attempt'.
2. Pragmatic value orientation: It reflects the Chinese philosophy of 'valuing effectiveness and favoring smoothness' in handling affairs, pursuing 'speed' (such as the swift victories of Mongolian cavalry and Geng Yan's rapid strikes against enemies), while also revering 'stability' (like the peace after the Qin Emperor worshipped the stone). It implicitly yearns for the ideal state of 'acting according to circumstances and striking with precision', aligning with the logic of success in traditional culture of 'timing, location, and harmony'.
3. Cultural integration of military and daily life: Originating from military scenes (victorious battles, quick wins), it later extends to everyday blessings (such as examinations, business, weddings, etc.), representing a clever combination of military culture and folk culture—retaining the historical memory of 'the horse as the core of combat power' in ancient wars, while transforming into a universally recognized auspicious phrase, reflecting the inclusiveness and practicality of culture.
4. Language and artistic expression carriers: As an idiom, it condenses historical anecdotes (Geng Yan pacifying Qi, Xue Rengui's expedition), becoming a common imagery in poetry, opera, and calligraphy (such as works by Guan Hanqing, traditional calligraphy inscriptions). It also gives rise to related expressions like 'Spirit of the Dragon Horse' and 'Leading the Charge', forming a unique linguistic and cultural system, embodying good wishes for others and serving as an important component of China's 'Auspicious Culture'.