Yin Yang Face (A Study of the Diverse States of Chinese Traditional Intellectuals)

Author: Ke Ping
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-08-01
Features: In The Yin-Yang Face, the eccentric scholars and literati who appear have diverse personalities. Most of them are highly talented; however, in modern eyes, they also exhibit such obvious personality flaws. Gong Zizhen boasts about his romantic encounters with a sense of vanity; Zheng Banqiao profits through pretentious behavior; Huang Zhongze indulges in his own capriciousness due to his talent; Liu Yazi looks down upon others and demands official positions; from Gu Bi to Yuan Hongdao, they all eagerly seek favor with high-ranking officials. Wu Meicun and Zhao Mengfu eventually go from being remnants of the previous dynasty to shamelessly serving the enemy. In summary, the lives of many literati became intricately linked with political power. Whether they longed for or were disappointed in it, whether they or disdainfully rejected it, political power remained an unavoidable focal point in their lives. Their lives had to be defined by their relationship with political power. They took the imperial examinations, kowtowed to beg for recommendation letters from prominent figures, obtained minor official positions, strutted with arrogance, resigned in disgrace, sought solace in nature, grew cynical, frequented courtesans and entertainers, or sought refuge in monks, Taoists, and alcohol. Some proclaimed their moral integrity, while others discerned the fickleness of the world and grasped the true meaning of life—many traditional literati essentially moved in this circle of life. This life has formed a dualistic structure. Dominating this structure is a well-known saying: "When prosperous, serve the world; when destitute, cultivate oneself." Whether in office or in exile, in the court or in the wilderness, there is no other path than this duality. This is the entire chessboard of the lives of traditional literati.