Lu Shuxiang: Commemorating the Centenary of Lu Shuxiang: Commemorating the Centenary of Lu Shuxiang

Author: Institute of Linguistics, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-06-01
Features: Six years have passed since the passing of Mr. Lu Shuxiang, and this year marks his centenary. The Institute of Linguistics will hold an academic symposium to solemnly commemorate him, while also publishing this exquisite illustrated biography, "Lu Shuxiang," to help more people understand the life journey and academic path of this renowned linguist. Opening the book, one is instantly immersed in Mr. Lu's world, with countless familiar and unfamiliar fragments vividly appearing before the eyes and in the mind. I once again follow the path he walked in life, trying to understand and recognize him. Mr. Lu rarely discussed politics directly in his conversations, yet anyone who knew him well could clearly sense his deep sense of national and national distress and his lofty sense of responsibility. Like many intellectuals of his generation, Mr. Lu was deeply influenced by the spirit of the May Fourth Movement, with a firm aspiration to save the nation through science and culture. Patriotism and a reverence for science were the spiritual characteristics of this generation of academic masters. He witnessed the impoverished and weak reality of old China, the darkness and corruption, and experienced the suffering of family separation and displacement during the wars. These experiences made his thoughts and emotions deeply connected to the masses, leading him to wholeheartedly support the new society and cherish the new life. With a mindset of "aging younger with each passing day" and a vision of a bright future for his country, he devoted himself enthusiastically to the construction of socialist cultural undertakings.
I remember that Mr. Fei Xiaotong once said: "The older generation of Chinese intellectuals had a 'will' in their hearts, which was the cornerstone of their lives. 'A commoner cannot have his will snatched away,' and that will was patriotism and academia. The root of academia is patriotism." These words truly touch the core, serving as a concise yet profound interpretation of Mr. Lu's thoughts. From a young age, Mr. Lu received a good education, laying a solid foundation in classical literature and traditional Chinese studies. In his later academic practice, he adhered to the principle of "Chinese learning as the foundation and Western learning as the application," drawing on Western linguistic theories and methods while remaining grounded in the realities of Chinese language. He maintained a pragmatic and truth-seeking academic approach, always staying at the forefront of academic trends and achieving a series of theoretical and methodological innovations, becoming one of the masters who pioneered modern linguistics in China.
Mr. Lu was not the kind of scholar who spent his life solely in seclusion, nor was he the type to confine himself to a narrow research field. His research encompassed many fields across ancient and modern China and beyond, skillfully integrating general and specialized knowledge, theory and practice, basic and applied research, as well as textual studies and studies of living language. A notable feature of Mr. Lu's academic practice was his keen interest in the social life of language, focusing on how linguistics could contribute to the popularization of basic education and the improvement of the cultural literacy of the entire nation. Throughout his life, he directly participated in the formulation of national language and character policies and tirelessly worked on the standardization of modern Chinese pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary. The "Modern Chinese Dictionary," edited by Mr. Lu and Mr. Ding Shengshu, has been published in over 40 million copies to date. It has made outstanding contributions to China's cultural and educational cause and has gained widespread influence worldwide, becoming an essential reference book for people around the world learning and studying the Chinese language.
He was passionate about popularizing language education, participating in the compilation of primary and secondary school language textbooks and educational reforms with great seriousness and responsibility. Even at the age of 77, he meticulously prepared a manuscript of nearly 10,000 words titled "How to Teach Grammar to Middle School Students." He was always willing to respond to the letters of primary and secondary school teachers, earning the title of their dear friend. He cared about the growth of young scholars, holding them in high regard and not only imparting academic experience but also personally revising articles for many known and unknown individuals, some of whom he even provided long-term financial support. He was both a stern teacher and a loving father, pouring boundless effort into the education of younger scholars.
Like such a great scholar, to consciously serve the civilization and progress of society with academia, to dedicate so much time, energy, and effort to popularizing language education and nurturing talent, and to communicate and interact with the people in such a humble and approachable manner—what a lofty realm! Whenever I recall these deeds, I am filled with deep respect. Six years ago, I wrote an article in memory of Mr. Lu, titled "The People's Linguist—Lu Shuxiang," which I added later. I believe Mr. Lu truly deserves the title "The People's Linguist."
The illustrated biography also reveals aspects of Mr. Lu's family life and his interactions with students and friends. Mr. Lu's family was characterized by simplicity and kindness. His parents respected each other, brothers were friendly, elders were loving, and children were filial, embodying both traditional Chinese values and modern democratic spirit. Mr. Lu loved his family, students, and friends, filling them with love and responsibility. In Mr. Lu's home, his wife, Mrs. Lu, was a figure of great cohesion. For over 70 years, she shared joys and sorrows with Mr. Lu, meticulously caring for his daily life and serving as a strong support for his career. Mrs. Lu was only half a year younger than Mr. Lu and, at the age of 100, was still able to live independently—truly a person of great virtue and fortune.
On the occasion of commemorating Mr. Lu's centenary, we also extend our blessings to Mrs. Lu, wishing her good health and a long life. Although Mr. Lu has passed away, he remains with us. Opening various linguistic journals and newly published works on linguistics, his works are always prominently listed in the references. His academic thoughts, views, and research methods continue to inspire and influence later scholars, becoming essential references for their academic innovation. What can bring comfort to Mr. Lu is that China's linguistic research has been progressing well in recent years. New research bases have been established, research fields have been continuously expanded, and the research team has grown, with numerous innovative achievements. In summary, China's linguistic cause has a promising future, and Mr. Lu, please rest assured!
Twenty-six years ago, six of us—Yang Chengkai, Li Chongxing, Wang Juquan, Zhou Liuxi, Huang Guoying, and Chen Ping—were fortunate enough to become Mr. Lu's private disciples, listening to his teachings and benefiting from his wisdom, spending the most cherished years of our lives. The kindness of our teacher is as immense as a mountain, unforgettable for life. Now, all six of us have achieved academic success, offering some solace to Mr. Lu in the afterlife. Over the past six years, I have often missed Mr. Lu. Whenever I plan to write an article but am unclear about my, I think of Mr. Lu—had he been here, discussing with him would surely have brought me inspiration. Whenever I make a breakthrough in my research, I also think of Mr. Lu—had he been here, he could have shared my joy, perhaps slightly easing his disappointment in me for these years of "not focusing on my main duties."
Six years ago, Mr. Lu's ashes were buried on a hillside at Xiangshan, with no markers. Accompanying him were the green mountains and cypress trees, and the rustling pine winds. "The wise love water, the benevolent love mountains," may Mr. Lu rest in peace in the embrace of nature.
This is an illustrated biography commemorating the centenary of Mr. Lu Shuxiang's birth, featuring numerous photographs of his life and work, as well as early editions and manuscripts of his works, letters, and other artifacts. It is divided into seven parts: "The Path of Learning," "Teaching and Writing During Turbulent Times," "Writing with an Aging Hand," and "Late Life Feelings," allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of the life journey and academic path of this renowned linguist.
Target Audience: Suitable for general readers as a reference.