墨すみは餓が鬼きに磨すらせ、筆ふでは鬼おにに持もたせよ

expression

grind your inkstick gently but move your brush vigorously

Proverb advising that in calligraphy, one should grind the inkstick with a light, gentle touch (like a hungry ghost, weak and delicate) but wield the brush with bold, vigorous strokes (like an ogre, strong and forceful). The literal gloss is provided for cultural reference.

• 書しょ道どうの先せん生せいが「墨すみは餓が鬼きに磨すらせ、筆ふでは鬼おにに持もたせよ」と言いって、筆ふでの持もち方かたを教おしえてくれた。

  My calligraphy teacher taught me how to hold the brush, saying, 'Grind your inkstick gently but move your brush vigorously.'