Ranting About Ancient Famous Figures: Wu Zetian

Author: Sun Jianjun
Publisher:
Publishing Time: Not available
Features: Recently, China's first large-scale series of online commentaries, Talking About Ancient Famous Figures, is about to be launched by Bashu Publishing House. The book selects historically significant and influential figures with unique personalities, such as Wu Zetian, Qin Shi Huang, Yongzheng, Cao Cao, Zhuge Liang, and Zeng Guofan, and features critiques by influential literary critics in China. On April 10, a network reading and discussion session was held in Sichuan, where renowned writers and cultural figures discussed seven sample chapters that had been completed for Talking About Ancient Famous Figures. Attendees unanimously agreed that it was a distinctive and unique commentary series, with its standout features being the rich and distinctive story selections, the sharp and fluid language of the critics, and the vivid and lively perspectives, which offered readers a fresh and engaging experience. The literary critics and writers in attendance also engaged in an in-depth discussion about the book's themes. Xu Kang (Vice President of the Sichuan Writers' Association and Executive Deputy Director of the Ba Jin Literary Institute), the title Talking About Ancient Famous Figures is well-chosen, and the reason lies in the broad scope of the word "talking." "Talking" sits between seriousness and satire, encompassing both storytelling and commentary. The critiques are delivered in a relaxed, playful, and humorous tone, using contemporary perspectives to evaluate historical figures, offering readers insights and leaving them with space for reflection and endless fascination. Currently, most history-themed books on the market objectively introduce historical figures, while this book presents Wu Zetian, Qin Shi Huang, and Zeng Guofan from a different angle, revealing aspects that are not easily perceived. Their personalities, essence, inner psychology, and the hidden sorrow, melancholy, and suffering in their hearts are vividly captured by the critics, allowing readers to clearly see that even the once-powerful emperors and ministers in history possessed ordinary human qualities. Wu Li (renowned critic) said, "When we talk about ancient famous figures, in my opinion, it's not simply about writing history or praising or criticizing historical figures. It's also not about letting readers gain a fresh understanding of Cao Cao and Zeng Guofan through this series. We chose these historical figures for commentary because they have exceptionally distinct personalities and unique achievements, and they transcend conventional norms. Through 'talking' commentary, readers can explore these figures' valuable personalities, which can reveal and reflect their essence, and inspire reflections on the present through their personalities. Traditional Chinese history has long suppressed the expression of individuality, but these historical figures successfully asserted their own personalities. We want readers to clearly understand their bold and expressive personalities. For example, Wu Zetian personally killed her own son, showcasing her ruthlessness. Yet, she also demonstrated her leniency by appointing her rival, Shangguan Wan'er, to a high position, revealing her compassion. The combination of ruthlessness, leniency, compassion, and strength in Wu Zetian's personality inevitably sparks endless reflections, offering valuable lessons for modern people on how to live. Yuan Jiliang (Deputy Director of the Creative Research Office of the Sichuan Writers' Association) mentioned that seeing this series reminded him of Croce's quote: "All history is contemporary history." When cultural figures discuss ancient famous figures, it allows us to stand from a new, modern perspective to freely recognize and evaluate them. Using today's thoughts and perspectives to critique them means that in history, they were emperors or ministers, but now, we view them simply as ordinary people. "Talking" aims to highlight the unique aspects of these figures, revealing their personalities to modern audiences and offering fresh insights, prompting deeper reflection and leaving a lasting impression. The atmosphere of the discussion session was very lively. When this book is presented to readers, we hope they will engage in in-depth discussions online and through other media, continuing to explore deeper layers of meaning.