Escape from the World and Freedom (A Brief History of Chinese Hermitage)

Author: He Ming
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Features: It is precisely the unique identity of the recluse that has given rise to an important feature of Chinese reclusion culture, creating an extremely complex interweaving between the recluse and society, the mountains and forests, and the court. Reclusion is often not a lifelong pursuit for many; rather, it is a path of entering and exiting between official career and reclusion. All forms of reclusion share a common point: they set the individual and society against each other in some sense. Recluses are often highly individualistic and principled individuals. This strong sense of individualism prevents them from compromising and integrating into a world they are unwilling to join, while also making them feel a profound sense of loneliness. They are acutely aware of their differences from those who are content with the existing moral and political order. It is this deeply rooted loneliness that drives them to seek their own spiritual homeland.