Subtle sorrow

Author: Han Yushan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-05-01
Features: Han Yushan's novel left a deep impression on me. Whether it was the clamor and commotion or the ephemeral nature of life, the author never stops at the mere recording of social realities. He always penetrates through layers of barriers to find the inner tremors and bewilderment. — Zong Renfa
Han Yushan's novel is truly unique. In fact, literature should not solely depict the aesthetic aspects of survival, but the underlying expression should imply certain insights. This novel is a reckless and unrestrained form of writing, free and unbridled. However, the exaggeration of the language makes it even more authentic and rich. Behind the ornate words, the impact and emotional resonance are extraordinary. — Zhu Dahai
When it comes to Han Yushan's writing, the novel has transformed into a stream of consciousness of life and the body, so free that it lacks boundaries. Such a text has greatly challenged the novelistic skills I pursue. The novel has lost its tightness and become overly loose, to the point where writing itself becomes an enjoyment. It compels me to ask: What is the true essence of life? — Dong Xi
This is China's version of On the Road and The Catcher in the Rye. It finds hope in the void and discovers value in the ruins. — Xu Kun
In the Northeast, there are no teenagers. Northeasterners are old the moment they are born. If you don’t appear old, you have to pretend to be. Only by pretending to be old can you live a full life. Look at Han Yushan in the work—he wastes so much of his youthful emotions overnight. Then look at the Han Yushan outside the work—a young Northeastern teenager in his twenties, like a volcano that has erupted and is now slowly subsiding in the distance, faint and elusive. It’s easy to approach him, but truly getting close is incredibly difficult. As the saying goes, only sorrow can be faint.