Above the western sky

Author: Han Dong
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2007-02-01
Features: West Above is a collection of short stories by Nanjing writer and poet Han Dong. Most of the stories collected here come from the author's notebook, while some were originally drafted as standalone pieces with the intention of being developed into novels. These stories span a decade from writing to publication. The author decided to compile them together, partly due to the consistency of their thematic backgrounds, but more importantly, because of the emotional inclination that runs through all the stories. The protagonists in the stories—whether it's the young Xiaobo in childhood, Xiayu and Xiaosong in adolescence, or the adult Xiaodong—have all experienced rural life, which constitutes the most gentle part of their personalities. Regarding the theme of the Down to the Countryside movement, or rather the description of a rural life that gradually becomes familiar from complete strangeness, Han Dong demonstrates both keen observation and a sense of caution, avoiding the pitfalls of pastoral or nostalgic writing, which gives the stories a distinctive flavor. This collection of short stories includes 16 works by the author, set against the backdrop of the Down to the Countryside movement. Each story can stand alone while also maintaining an internal emotional continuity. The narrative perspective ranges from innocent childhood to bitter adolescence. These works are neither pastoral idylls nor melancholic nostalgic pieces, nor are they simply a straightforward coming-of-age story. The author masterfully subverts these traditional themes, aiming to reveal a harsh and specific truth. The readability of the stories is exceptional, with vivid and humorous writing that showcases the author's rare literary prowess.