Leisurely Thoughts (Part II)

Author: Sun Chang
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-10-01
Features: Li Yu of the Qing Dynasty, known as the "Lakeside Willow Scholar," was a versatile figure and a renowned playwright and theatrical theorist in the early Qing. Beyond his profound expertise in drama and poetry, he was also a man who loved life and deeply understood the art of living. Both Lin Yutang and Zhou Zuoren particularly admired his works in this regard. Lin Yutang, when speaking of the book A Random Sketch of Leisure, said: "A significant part of Li Yu's writings is dedicated to the study of the joys of life, serving as a miniature guide to the art of living for the Chinese. From living quarters to gardens, interior decoration, room division, women's grooming, beauty, applying makeup, the art of cooking, and a series of delicacies—both the rich and the poor seek joy, and there are ways to alleviate sorrow and boredom throughout the year, as well as moderation in sexual life and prevention and treatment of diseases."