Zhuangzi (Shuyunlou Congkan)

Author: Zhuangzi (Warring States Period)
Publisher:
Publication Date: 2003-06-01
Features: The book Zhuangzi is renowned for its unrestrained and vivid writing, rich and profound meaning, embodying the wisdom of philosophers and the essence of life. It is celebrated as a treasure of ancient Chinese culture and a must-read for scholars throughout history. Guo Xiang of the Jin Dynasty wrote annotations for it, delving into its profound depths. Today, our publishing house has reorganized the Zhuangzi based on the Shide Tang edition and Guo Xiang's annotations, publishing it in a new binding style. Beyond its original literary and philosophical value, this edition adds a collectible charm, offering you multifaceted appreciation and enjoyment.
The jinxiang edition originated in the Southern Qi Dynasty and flourished during the Song Dynasty. From the Ming and Qing dynasties onwards, new designs emerged in each era. The term jinxiang refers to small portable boxes used in the past to store handkerchiefs and other miscellaneous items. In ancient times, people read at any moment, whether sitting or lying down, and carried books with them. Thus, the size was reduced to fit into these small boxes—convenient to carry while traveling and easy to browse while resting. The jinxiang edition, though the youngest among books, upholds Confucius's principle of "learning and practice in due time," playing a significant role.
Unfortunately, in modern times, Western influence has spread eastward, favoring Western-style bindings. Books have become increasingly elaborate and cumbersome to carry. They weigh like burdens on the back and are difficult to read even for a short while while lying down. Worse still, some are outwardly luxurious but inwardly hollow, prioritizing the container over the content, misleading readers and drifting far from the true essence of books.
's jinxiang edition series is created with purpose. By learning from the successes and failures of past jinxiang editions, it aims to return to simplicity and elegance, promoting national culture. The design is small yet complete, the price affordable yet carefully selected, and the content thoughtfully curated, emphasizing personal charm and literary interest. The arrangement is logical, and purchasing individually or as a set is equally satisfying.
The paper is fragrant, the printing vivid, the annotations meticulous, and the layout dynamic. This series, which invests great effort and passion in small books, is so captivating that once seen, one cannot help but fall in love with it. Mountains need not be high to be sacred; books need not be expensive to possess elegance. Therefore, the series is named Shuyunlou (Book Charm Pavilion), and refined gentlemen will surely appreciate its meaning. This is the preface.