Library of Masterpieces of Modern Chinese Literature (Complete 22 volumes)

Author: Li Wei
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-08-01
Features:
"Chinese Modern Literature Masterpieces Collection: Xu Deshan Classics (Volume 1 & 2)"
Introduction: Xu Deshan's creative work benefited from his (turbulent) life experiences and unique attitudes toward life and artistic pursuits, which made his works stand out in the new literature since the May Fourth Movement. Xu Deshan's creative career can be broadly divided into two phases: the early period (1919-1927), represented by the short story collection The Spider Weaving a Net and the prose collection The Rainy Mountain, and the later period (1928-1941), marked by the short story collection The Fallen Nest. His early works often explored themes of marriage and family to depict the hardships of life, which were then referred to as "marriage and family literature." Xu Deshan's early creative thought was shaped by personal struggles and social upheavals, oscillating between dedication and retreat, resistance and resignation, and persistence and despair. This duality made his works filled with sighs of helplessness in the face of the world, melancholic undertones in the midst of life's triumphs, and a mournful rejection of life.
Upon completing his studies abroad and witnessing the harsh realities of domestic society, Xu Deshan's thoughts underwent profound changes. He combined the suffering of the people with political realities, giving his works a clear ideological stance. Especially in his later creative and life phases, he moved from fatalism (life is inherently unhappy) to advocating struggle against fate; from classless humanitarianism to recognizing the true meaning of revolution; from exposing the evils of the old world to praising beautiful ideals. Through his relentless inquiry and exploration into life's hardships, Xu Deshan matured as a writer.
This collection includes Xu Deshan's three most famous works: The Rainy Mountain, The Spider Weaving a Net, and The Fallen Nest, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding and appreciation of his creative style.
"Chinese Modern Literature Masterpieces Collection: Zhu Ziqing Classics (Volume 1 & 2)"
Introduction: The enduring acclaim for Zhu Ziqing's prose stems primarily from the rich emotions and authenticity found in his works. In his writing, Zhu Ziqing placed great emphasis on the truthfulness of literature, opposing imitation and deception. His prose is also distinguished by its meticulous and delicate style. Zhu Ziqing excelled at observing and vividly depicting subjects, and it is this subtlety that allows readers to fully grasp the beauty and sentiment, creating a strong resonance. It is this keen observation and insight that gives The Father its profound emotional impact—the trembling figure of the father leaves readers deeply moved.
Zhu Ziqing's prose also triumphs in language. While early vernacular works sometimes included hybrid styles (half-classical, half-modern) that felt awkward and unrefined, Zhu Ziqing devoted great effort to crafting truly beautiful prose in vernacular Chinese. His language possesses a gentle and refined tone, with a unique charm that is both profound and understated, yet always conveys a rich poetic essence. In his later works, he refined his use of colloquial language, making it even more polished and natural, free of artificiality.
Another key reason for the lasting popularity of Zhu Ziqing's prose is its accessibility and simplicity. Despite his deep understanding of classical literature and language, his prose imparts valuable knowledge without flaunting it. He engages readers with an equal footing, as if chatting with an old friend—discussing topics from ancient to modern, from China to the world, without pretense or the of deliberate artifice. Instead, he strives to make his writing both profound and accessible, engaging, and entertaining.
This collection also includes works by:
Wen Yiduo, Qu Qiubai, Xia Guanzun, Rou Shi, Yu Dafu, Xiao Hong, Lu Xun, Xu Zhimo, Lu Yin, and Lu Yan.