Snake and Tower

Author: Nie Guangnu
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-04-01
Features: The value of a fine work lies in its enduring legacy; the significance of a classic lies in its timeless relevance. Regardless of how time flows, they remain cherished additions to the bookshelves of readers or bedtime companions. On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the Sanlian Bookstore, Sanlian Bookstore has curated a selection of fine works from its half-century of publications, embodying humanistic spirit and intellectual wisdom. Additionally, some books with similar character but not originally published by Sanlian have been included, forming the "Sanlian Selection" Collection. The works in the collection are chosen for their brevity and accessible language, reflecting the ideals of academic popularization and cultural accumulation.
Nie Guangnu (1903–1986) was a renowned essayist and poet. Xia Yan remarked, "After Lu Xun, Nie Guangnu stands out as the best essayist." The collection Snake and Pagoda includes 31 essays written between 1940 and 1984, with the title inspired by the legend of the White Snake and the Leifeng Pagoda. Through this allegory of oppressor and oppressed, the essays critique the historical tradition and contemporary society in China that perpetuate the oppression and discrimination against women and children. Here, both heart-wrenching stories from life and literary archetypes are presented. Lu Xun said, "Save the children," while Nie Guangnu replied, "Let the children save us." Lu Xun wrote How to Be a Father, and Nie Guangnu wrote How to Be a Mother. From Dream of the Red Chamber, Golden Chamber of the Great Master, and Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio to contemporary women, the author paints a long gallery of Chinese women's history, leaving readers in deep contemplation and profound emotion.