Speed Reading - Lin Yutang Volume

Author: Li Shaojun (Editor)
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-02-01
Features: This book is part of the series "Speed Reading on Modern and Contemporary Chinese Literary Masters and Famous Authors," specifically the volume on Lin Yutang. It is reviewed by renowned scholars and writers and recommended by authoritative professors from Peking University. A history of modern Chinese literature, it features a diverse array of literary figures, caught in the unpredictable shifts of modern Chinese political storms, thrust into the whirlpools of struggle and the hardships of life. Whether they liked it or not, they consciously or unconsciously reacted to and made choices about reality. Among them are those who rushed forward fiercely, those who cherished tradition, those who spilled blood on the scaffold, those who bowed their heads in submission, those who were full of passion, those who watched coldly from the sidelines, those who sang mournful songs, those who hummed softly, those who roamed the world, those who contemplated in studies, those who were unrestrained, those who were gentle and humble, and those who looked down on others. Their postures varied, their voices distinct, forming a polyphonic symphony of modern Chinese literature and creating a vibrant cultural landscape. Among them, Lin Yutang, known as the "Master of Humor," undoubtedly stands out as a dazzling cultural star. Most of us in our generation knew his fame through the works and annotations of Mr. Lu Xun. Back then, we all agreed that anyone criticized by Mr. Lu Xun could hardly be considered a good person, so Lin Yutang became a "villain" in many people's eyes. Early impressions are hard to erase quickly, and only time can wash them away. Later, as I gradually read Lin Yutang's humorous essays, I discovered that he was also a great writer. For example, in his book "Collected Works of Youbu Zhai," his carefree and humorous writing style is very appealing. He described the experience of reading like this: "On a warm spring evening, you might walk hand in hand with your beloved into the wilderness to read the Lament of the Departed; or on a snowy night, sitting around the stove, with a pot of fine tea and a box of cigarettes, surrounded by scattered books on philosophy, economy, literature, and history on the sofa, then reading at random according to your whim—this is how you truly find the joy of reading."