The Past and Present of Xu Zhimo: Soaring and Desolation

Author: Ruofan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-06-01
Features: Reasons to read this book: He is a "completely defenseless" person, sincere, open, and kind-hearted. Hu Shi called him "a whole bundle of sympathy" and "just a bundle of love." Yu Dafu said he maintained a "passionate and upright attitude toward life." Zheng Zhenduo praised him as "a trustworthy friend." Wang Tongzhao described him as having "extremely pure innocence and a gentle, sincere heart." Zhu Ziqing regarded him as a superior "modern Chinese poet," comparable to Guo Moruo.
Recommended for the following groups to read this book:
- Supporters or opponents of the idea that "love is supreme" and "love is sacred."
- Supporters or opponents of China's "new poetry."
- Those who have smooth or troubled romantic relationships.
- Young men and women or married couples.
- People who are true to their nature or ordinary folk.
- Students from primary to high school.
He lived for only 35 years but was considered one of the "most unforgettable poets of the 20th century in China." He believed in the principles of "love is supreme" and "love is sacred" and was always ready to sacrifice for these beliefs. He was seen as "a vibrant, fiery flame," illuminating himself and others, and bringing light to gray life. He had the courage to "ram hell's gate with his head" and possessed a rare bravery and passion of "none but me."
He wrote the timeless classic "Goodbye to Cambridge," holding an irreplaceable and unique position in Chinese poetry. Zhu Ziqing regarded him as "a life-giving stream that leaps and splashes day and night"—he had an endless sense of vitality. He poured his entire heart and soul into Lin Huiyin, yet was seen as just a "butterfly in love" with flowers. He also devoted himself entirely to Lu Xiaoman, only to be viewed as "Zhimo harmed Xiaoman, and Xiaoman harmed Zhimo." He kept searching for places that suited him, yet always ended up in unsatisfactory reality; he kept seeking a land where love was as poetic and dreamlike as a poem, yet always encountered "harsh weather."
Regarding ideals, national affairs, family matters, and life and society, he once had grand ambitions but could never escape the rule of "illusive reflections and flowing water." He was just a "naive big boy" who helplessly shouted and ran—he had an endless sense of melancholy.