Biography of Li Ao

Author: Wang Xingfu
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2005-10-01
Features: Li Ao, a uniquely independent idealist. In turbulent times, his true character as a maverick shines. He speaks what others cannot or dare not speak; amidst chaos, he remains unyielding; in an era lacking heroes, he establishes himself through virtue and words, towering above the rest, extraordinary and unconventional. Li Ao's life of ups and downs is like a modern legend. From a literary comet to a widely condemned poison seed, from a hero of debates to 14 years of imprisonment, he has written over 100 books, with 96 of them banned. In the history of humankind, no one has written more banned books or faced such widespread bans as Li Ao. Li Ao has always faced it with composure and resisted fiercely. This major biography is a record of Li Ao's lifelong struggle against his time. I cannot be humble anymore. I deeply feel that on the burden of carrying forward the legacy, I bear a great weight, and this responsibility is non-negotiable—it is me or no one else. I cannot relax myself because I cannot forget the duties I owe. I know very well that in this group of aimless men, I am a rare gem, a sharp and solitary bloom, unmatched by anyone. I stand on the side of the world. —Li Ao
At 70, Li Ao, who had never left Taiwan in 56 years, embarked on his mysterious cultural journey on September 19, visiting Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong. He has published over a hundred works, with his critical essays famous far and wide. The Hu Shih Biography and The Study Collection are his representative works. Western media regards him as China's most outstanding critic of the modern era. He exposes his enemies without hesitation, from Soong May-ling to Lee Teng-hui, and Chen Shui-bian, naming them one by one. His pen knows no restraint. This book allows you to glimpse the unrestrained Li Ao! His legendary life is always intertwined with women, having loved more than a dozen throughout his life, accompanying him through every stage. The book also delves into the emotional entanglements he faced during key periods of his life, using poignant love stories as the main thread and his dramatic life experiences as the, vividly portraying Li Ao's rich emotional world and his legendary life of freedom and defiance.