Selected Works of Lin Yutang

Author: Lin Yutang
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2002-03-01
Features: Lin Yutang, the immortal artistic master in the history of modern Chinese literature, was one of the earliest Chinese literary figures to use the term "humor." With his writing style that blends profundity, authenticity, humor, and leisure, he crafted unique and distinctive essays and prose pieces, offering a feast for readers! Stylistically, the greatest feature of Lin Yutang's essays is their leisurely and humorous tone. Lin Yutang was one of the earliest Chinese literary figures to use the term "humor." In the 1920s, he actively advocated for "humor," but there were few followers, and it did not gain much traction. In the 1930s, after the launch of Lunyu, he once again emphasized "humor" and vigorously wrote humorous and leisurely prose pieces, which this time received more resonance. Initially, he regarded "humor" merely as a linguistic style. Later, he understood it as "a state of mind, moreover a perspective, an outlook on life." Lin Yutang's concept of "humor" was not vulgar or obvious jokes but rather humor infused with wisdom, and looseness revealing depth. Lin Yutang's essays often adopt a detached and leisurely mindset to observe the world, using plain language to praise beautiful prose. This creates a "lighthearted yet profound" style, much like the intimate "private conversations" of "leisurely writing." Lin Yutang's prose language is eclectic, incorporating various styles, such as the formal language of old official documents and current political slogans, among others. This reflects Lin Yutang's literary language philosophy. He (zhǔzhāng - advocates) that literary language can integrate classical, vernacular, colloquial, and regional dialects to form a unique "classical-style vernacular" language. This book includes a wealth of Lin's exquisite prose pieces.