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Author: Wu Taishang
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-10-01
Features: Recently, China's first large-scale series of online commentaries, Talking About Ancient Famous Figures, is about to be officially launched by Bashu Book Society. The book selects historically significant and influential figures with strong 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 manuscript review meeting was held in Sichuan, where renowned writers and cultural figures discussed the seven sample drafts that have been completed for Talking About Ancient Famous Figures. The participants unanimously agreed that it was a unique and distinctive series of commentaries, characterized by its engaging and personalized story selections, as well as sharp, fluent, and thought-provoking critiques that left readers with a fresh perspective. The literary critics and writers in attendance also engaged in an in-depth discussion of 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, particularly because the term "talking" offers broad interpretive space. "Talking" bridges the gap between solemnity and satire, encompassing both storytelling and commentary. The critiques are delivered in a relaxed, playful, and humorous tone, evaluating historical figures through modern perspectives, offering readers insights and leaving room for reflection. Most historical books on the market objectively present figures, but this book presents Wu Zetian, Qin Shi Huang, and Zeng Guofan, among others, from a different angle, revealing aspects that are less easily perceived. Their personalities, true natures, inner thoughts, and the hidden sorrow, melancholy, and pain 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, "Talking About Ancient Famous Figures" is not simply about writing history or praising or condemning historical figures. It is not meant to make readers reinterpret Cao Cao and Zeng Guofan's history. We chose these figures because of their distinct personalities and exceptional achievements, which transcend conventional norms. Through "talking" critiques, readers can understand these figures' valuable traits, which in turn reveal their true natures and inspire reflections on reality. Traditional Chinese history has long suppressed individuality, but these historical figures successfully expressed their own personalities. We want readers to clearly understand their bold and assertive traits. 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 soft and compassionate side. The combination of ruthlessness, softness, and compassion in Wu Zetian's personality naturally 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 made him think of Croce's quote: "All history is contemporary history." Discussing ancient figures from a modern perspective allows us to freely recognize and evaluate them with today's thoughts and values. That is, while they were emperors or ministers in history, we now view them as ordinary people and critique them accordingly. "Talking" aims to highlight their unique traits, revealing the personalities of historical figures to modern audiences and inspiring new insights, deeper reflections, and lasting impressions. The atmosphere of the meeting was, and when this book is presented to readers, it is hoped that they will engage in in-depth discussions online and through other media, continuing to explore deeper layers of meaning.