Modernity and Classical Tradition (On the "Classical Tendency" in Modern Chinese Literature)

Author: Wu Xinjun
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-12-01
Features: Throughout the book, it can be seen that the author maintains a consistent awareness of "historical consciousness." While fully recognizing that writers with a "classical tendency" pursue the "harmony of human nature" by combating the crisis of modernity with "moral and aesthetic qualities," the author also clearly understands that "moral and aesthetic qualities" are not abstract entities transcending reality. "Combating" does not mean replacing it; history must continue along the path of "modernity," capable only of overcoming the "crisis" rather than turning back. The author is well aware that the laws of historical development cannot be defied and points out the awkward fate of the "utopia" of these writers in modern China: "In an era where 'the lament of chaos breeds anger,' in an era of fierce competition and sandstorms, in an era where the main theme is the pursuit of freedom and liberation, they raised the banner of a harmonious beauty, attempting to alleviate the shocks of the times through literature. They often criticized works that expressed grievances, which was clearly moving against the trend of the times and doomed their weak position in the history of modern literature."