Source: Folk proverbs.
Idea: Everyone is aggressive and has a goal to strive for, which is the driving force to promote social progress and development.
Quote: Lao She's The Salesgirl has three scenes: "You, Lingyun, don't forget that your grandfather is a juren and your father is a middle school principal? Man struggles upwards, but water flows downwards. Why do you want to sell needles, threads, brains and ginger for three dollars and vinegar for two dollars? "
Extended data
The meaning of "Man struggles upwards and water flows downwards";
"Man struggles upwards" is man's ambition and pursuit. Human nature is upward, superior to the same kind, and constantly improve themselves. "Water flows downwards" is an objective law of nature. Under the action of gravity, water will naturally flow downwards.
"Man struggles upwards, water flows downwards" is a metaphor, which means that a person can become a successful person only by unremitting pursuit, otherwise he will indulge himself like water.