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Author: Wang Yongbin (Qing Dynasty)
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2002-01-01
Features: "Retreat from the World" and "Shadow of Dreams" are books of life reflection and guidelines for social conduct. The authors are Wang Yongbin and Zhang Chao. Wang Yongbin is the author of "Retreat from the World," with an unknown biography. "Retreat from the World" teaches people to be calm and composed in dealing with matters, avoiding deliberately defying local customs to appear morally superior. As the ancient saying goes, "When in Rome, do as the Romans do." It means that whatever one does should be in accordance with common sense. In social interactions, one should follow the context, respect people's customs, ethnic traditions, etiquette systems, and behavioral norms, and adjust one's own behavior accordingly. One should be calm, approachable, fair, upright, open-minded, and transparent in conduct, avoiding opportunism, hypocrisy, and cunning schemes. Because those who are overly cunning in their schemes often sow the seeds of betrayal when plotting against others—like the mantis catching a cicada but being itself caught by the jay. Therefore, to avoid being schemed against, one must abandon scheming and choose the path of light and truth. Although the words in this book are brief, they are concise yet profound, capturing the essence of life. The overarching philosophy throughout is rooted in orthodox Confucianism, retaining its inspiring educational value.
"Shadow of Dreams" was written by Zhang Chao, a native of Qing Anhui Zhenxi. His courtesy name was Shanlai, and his sobriquet was Xinzhai. "Shadow of Dreams" can be considered a remarkable book. One of its peculiarities lies in the wide range of topics it covers. Another peculiarity is that the author expresses his unique insights into life in the form of short essays, with fresh and charming writing that conveys profound philosophy, articulating what others cannot and discovering what has never been said before, leaving readers deeply reflective. The third peculiarity is the witty and engaging comments appended by contemporaries after each of the author's remarks.