Accidental or Incidental - Notes on Reading History by a Reporter

Author: Tian Dongjiang
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-03-01
Features: "Observing the Past and Present Together" is a common way of thinking among Chinese scholars. The author, Tian Dongjiang, is the Director of the Commentary Office of Nanfang Daily. This book is a collection of essays and commentaries written from early 1998 to late 2004. The first part consists of articles from his column "New Interpretations of Ancient History," mostly written in the style of historical notes on ancient figures and events. Upon closer reading, it becomes clear that none of them are merely about the past but are instead allegorical reflections on the present. The second part is in the form of contemporary commentaries, often connecting current news to the past and present, providing a historical depth that traces the roots of events, reflecting the author's concern for reality. In the author's words, it is "observing the past and present together." The author either criticizes current issues or cites classical texts, making for an engaging read.