Tianyi Pavilion Wang: Fan Qin Biography

Author: Dai Guangzhong
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-04-01
Features: Among the books I have written, this one is the one I felt the least confident about and put the most effort into. Due to my academic focus on China in the 20th century, I have largely avoided delving into ancient figures and events. Moreover, Fan Qin and his Tianyi Pavilion have stood in my heart since childhood, revered almost to the point of mystery, to the extent that I was hardly daring to touch upon them, let alone study them with a condescending attitude. However, when I finally decided to approach and explore them, my lack of expertise proved unexpectedly useful, allowing me to see aspects of the book culture that specialists might overlook. My reverence also prompted me to examine Fan Qin with great care and seriousness, neither exaggerating his virtues nor concealing his flaws, striving for authenticity. I believe I have entered Fan Qin's inner world and ascended the inner sanctum of Tianyi Pavilion, and I am fortunate to have made some discoveries in this field of scholars and abundant specialized works. This joy is truly indescribable. However, my decision to undertake this work was greatly supported by the encouragement of the Zhejiang Provincial Philosophy and Social Sciences Planning Office and the encouragement of Researcher Lu Dunji of the Zhejiang Academy of Social Sciences. I am also grateful to Researcher Yu Haoxu, Director of the Tianyi Pavilion Museum, and Senior Expert Luo Zhaoping for their support. In particular, Researcher Yuan Hui provided me with all-around support, which I deeply cherish. Additionally, I extend my gratitude to Professor Zhang Ru'an of Ningbo University, Librarian Feng Yao, and Librarian Dong Guiqin for their assistance. I am also grateful to Editor Chen Qiaoli of Zhejiang People's Publishing House for her responsible and meticulous work. Lastly, I sincerely thank the protagonist of the biography, Fan Qin. The process of writing was also a process of learning, and the teachings of this local scholar and predecessor remain irreplaceably captivating even after 500 years.