Alone

Author: Zhou Meisen
Publisher:
Publish Date: 1997-12-01
Features: This volume includes two full-length novels, "Occupation" and "Lone Ride."
"Occupation" tells the story of the fall and resistance of a major Chinese city during the War of Resistance, providing a comprehensive scan of various figures from the upper echelons of society and the common folk at the bottom. The Japanese forces invading China launched a fierce assault on S City, where people from all walks of life and the soldiers fought to the death—words were brave, actions tragic. However, after S City fell militarily, the morale of the people also plummeted. Some of the former "heroes" sold themselves to collaborate, becoming traitors; others became mere subjects; and some sought refuge in foreign concessions to preserve their "dignity." Yet, true resistance also began at this moment, leading to the uprising in the prisoner-of-war camp, the assassination of traitors, and the unwavering hope for liberation.
"Lone Ride," on the other hand, follows the rise and fall of a small city's sedan chair business as its central thread, set against the backdrop of a historical and folk painting. It vividly portrays a female character who wields men at her mercy. The protagonist, Bu Ru, battles her own father, her husband, and various ruffians and warlords for her sedan chair business, proving shrewd and decisive—sometimes even willing to compromise her principles or let blood flow freely. Yet, this tough female character defeated all her opponents but ultimately succumbed to the tide of the times. When bicycles and cars replaced sedan chairs, Bu Shouru's profound sorrow was inevitable. Amidst the killings, conspiracies, and bloodshed, an inevitable layer of nostalgia also crept in.