Speed Reading - Xu Zhimo Volume

Author: Wang Qingfeng et al.
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-02-01
Features: Xu Zhimo is a representative figure of the emerging intellectual class during the Republican era. In the history of modern Chinese literature, Xu Zhimo has become a subject of admiration and contemplation for later generations through his poetry, prose, and romantic experiences. His literary works and life attitudes are highly controversial—his poetry has been interpreted as the self-pity of the Chinese "bourgeoisie," and his tumultuous love stories have left people pondering right and wrong. When entangled in a relationship with Lin Huiyin, Xu Zhimo suffered immense pain. When accompanying Tagore on his visit to Japan from Beijing, a large crowd came to the station to bid farewell, filling the carriage with flowers. Lin Huiyin stood gracefully among the farewell crowd, and when Xu Zhimo saw her, his heart ached.
"Her kindness and gentleness were like Xiao Man, while his passion and sincerity were like Xu Zhimo. When they met, sparks naturally flew, and they ignored Confucian ethics and family traditions. It was as if they were like Xiao Man and Xu Zhimo—she, a graceful and gentle woman with lingering affection; he, a talented scholar from Jiangnan with a refined demeanor. She was a rose with dew, and he was a lyrical new poem. Dry wood meeting fire—how could they not ignite with the flames of love?"
Liang Sicheng, meanwhile, picked up a radio fragment from the scene of the incident and brought it back to Beijing. This fragment was hung in Lin Huiyin's room and became an embodiment of Xu Zhimo, as well as a symbol of her longing for him.