Notes from a Bedridden Person - (Revised Edition)

Author: Shi Tiesheng
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-03-01
Features: In the midst of profound adversity, it presents an arduous yet magnificent quest and longing for the divine and the ultimate meaning of life. In a country lacking religious traditions, where even religion is largely invested in the joys of the afterlife, Tiesheng's valuable hunger does not stem from particular theological devotion. His reflections remain full of lively knowledge without obsessive superstition, and his words remain accessible without pretense of obscurity. Yet his rational journey always leads to the horizon of life's faith, always merging into a golden glow of emotion and sanctity. In this sense, Notes from a Life Between Illnesses is almost like a Jesus who loves science popularization, a fairy tale that can be read to the sound of church organ music, and a formidable effort to rebuild a heavenly kingdom in the mortal world. —Han Shaogong
Shi Tiesheng is one of the most admirable contemporary Chinese writers. His writing is completely intertwined with his life. On his "writing nights," Tiesheng, with his physically impaired body, expressed the most full and profound thoughts. He experienced the hardships of life but expressed the clarity and joy of existence. His wise words illuminated, instead, the increasingly dark interiors of our hearts. While most writers abandoned the fundamental human condition in the age of consumerism, Tiesheng remained in his inner world, persistently seeking the value and brilliance of being human, and resolutely advancing into the desolate lands of existence. He steadfastly fought against the unknown, and this courage and perseverance deeply awakened our alert concern for our own circumstances. —Award Citation for Shi Tiesheng, winner of the Annual Outstanding Achievement Award in Chinese Literature Media Award