The story of Picasso giving Zhang Daqian an English name

In 1956, Zhang Daqian, who was then living in Brazil, traveled to Paris, France, to hold a personal art exhibition at the Louvre Museum. During his visit, Zhang Daqian had a meeting with the iconic artist Pablo Picasso. Picasso found Zhang Daqian's name difficult to pronounce and suggested giving him an English name, "Paul." However, Zhang Daqian found the pronunciation of "Paul" to sound like "plop," which he thought resembled the sound of flatulence. So he asked the translator to convey to Picasso, "My full name is Zhang Daqian, not Paul. Please call me by my full name, Zhang Daqian." Picasso was taken aback for a moment, realizing that calling someone by their full name was a way to show respect. He then told Zhang Daqian his own full name, which is "Pablo Diego José Francisco de Paula Juan Nepomuceno María de los Remedios Cipriano de la Santísima Trinidad Ruiz y Picasso."

Picasso's full name includes the names of several saints and the names of his family elders. It reflects the devout Catholic culture of Spain, his home country. Based on this story, I will now write a philosophical dialogue between Socrates and Confucius.

Socrates: Confucius, I heard about the disagreement between Picasso and Zhang Daqian regarding their names. It got me thinking about the significance of names. Are they merely superficial symbols, or do they hold deeper meanings?

Confucius: Mr. Socrates, a name is a symbol that represents a person's identity and the cultural traditions behind it. Picasso's full name incorporates the names of several saints and his family elders, reflecting his devout Catholic background.

Socrates: Indeed, Confucius. Names are a form of inheritance, carrying the weight of history and culture. However, should we judge a person solely based on their name? Or should we pay more attention to their thoughts, actions, and character?

Confucius: Mr. Socrates, a name is only a superficial symbol, providing some clues. Truly understanding a person requires a deeper exploration through dialogue and observation. We should perceive their wisdom and moral qualities through their words and deeds.

Socrates: Very true, Confucius. Names are just a starting point. True respect and understanding come from a focus on a person's inner self. Through profound philosophical contemplation and exploration, we can transcend the surface of names and discover the essence of human wisdom.

Confucius: Mr. Socrates, you are known for your wisdom and character. Your name is a symbol of honor and reputation. Let us continue our deep exploration, pursuing excellence in wisdom and morality, beyond the limitations of names.

Socrates: Confucius, I wholeheartedly agree. Let us strive together to transcend the constraints of names through philosophical contemplation and pursue the brilliance of wisdom and morality.