Author
Yu Li
Born 1611
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Books by Yu Li
肉蒲團
"肉蒲團" by Yu Li is a 17th-century Chinese erotic novel written in 1657 and published in 1693. The story follows Weiyangsheng, an arrogant young scholar who boasts of his sexual prowess and rejects Buddhist warnings about his lustful ways. After surgically enhancing himself, he embarks on affairs with married women, only to face karmic retribution when his own wife becomes victim to similar betrayals. This controversial work uses explicit content as allegory to challenge Confucian puritanism while exploring Buddhist themes of karma and spiritual awakening.
閒情偶寄
"閒情偶寄" by Yu Li is a literary work likely written in the late 16th century. This text appears to delve deeply into the complexities of love, societal roles, and the intricacies of human relationships, particularly through the lens of theatrical performances as a metaphor. The narrative introduces key figures, including a talented actress named 劉絳仙 and her daughter 藐姑, who struggle with the societal expectations placed on them and the challenges of fidelity and reputation. The opening of the book sets the stage in a village in Zhejiang province, known for a rich tradition in theatrical arts. It discusses the unique qualities of those involved in performing arts and highlights the main character, 劉絳仙, an exceptional actress capable of embodying various roles. The portion elaborates on the societal perceptions of women in theater and the interplay between performance and reality, particularly as it relates to love and fidelity. The background of 劉絳仙 as a prominent figure in this culture hints at the personal and societal conflicts that may arise in her life, foreshadowing the exploration of themes such as deception and the quest for authenticity amid the societal pressures of her time.
闲情偶寄
"闲情偶寄" by Yu Li is a philosophical discourse on the art of poetry and song, particularly focusing on the craft of lyricism and dramatic writing. This work likely belongs to the late 19th century, encompassing ideas from both classical Chinese literature and more modern interpretations of artistic expression. The book delves into the intricate relationship between musicality, structure, and expression in lyrical forms, suggesting that mastery in this craft is paramount for any writer seeking recognition or legacy. The opening of "闲情偶寄" introduces readers to a discussion on the importance of lyric writing and its perceived status among literary skills. The author reflects on the historical significance of well-crafted lyrics and their ability to outshine even grand historical narratives. He emphasizes that even emperors have gained renown through their expertise in lyricism, illustrating its cultural significance. By critiquing past and contemporary approaches to lyric creation, the author sets the stage for a deeper exploration of how emotional depth, thematic cohesion, and rhythmic precision contribute to the success of lyrical works in the realm of performance and literature. This opening lays a foundation for a thoughtful examination of artistic standards and the challenges faced by writers in expressing their creativity.
合錦回文傳
"合錦回文傳" by Yu Li is a historical fiction novel written in a classical style, likely during the late 19th century. The narrative centers around the remarkable journey of Su Ruolan, a talented woman whose skills in weaving a unique piece of silk, called the 回文錦, not only showcase her artistic talent but also play a crucial role in reuniting her with her estranged husband, Dou Tiao. The story unfolds in the backdrop of the Tang dynasty, capturing themes of love, jealousy, and the complexities of human relationships. The opening of the story introduces Su Ruolan, the daughter of a county magistrate, who is described as exceptionally beautiful and skilled in poetry and embroidery. After her marriage to Dou Tiao, who becomes infatuated with another woman, Ruolan learns of his betrayal and, out of despair and longing, decides to weave a special tapestry that expresses her feelings. This act of artistry rekindles the couple's relationship, and through her crafted words, Ruolan reveals a deep emotional longing that ultimately leads to her husband's regret and their reunion. Concurrently, the narrative explores the lives of their families and the societal expectations of the time, setting the stage for a tale that intertwines personal ambition with cultural heritage.
無聲戲
"無聲戲" by Yu Li is a fictional novel written in a time period that suggests a connection to the Ming or early Qing dynasties. The narrative explores themes of marriage and compatibility, focusing on the juxtaposition of beauty and ugliness in relationships, as well as the implications of societal expectations. The story opens with the character 闕裡侯, a rather unattractive man, who finds himself wed to a stunning woman, highlighting the dramatic contrasts and ensuing challenges that arise from their mismatched union. The beginning of the novel delves into the complex nature of matrimonial compatibility, introducing 闕裡侯's unfortunate predicament after marrying a beautiful woman, 鄒小姐. The narrative captures the emotional turmoil that arises from their union, predominantly stemming from the husband's low self-esteem and the wife's growing dissatisfaction with her situation. As the story unfolds, it suggests a deeper commentary on societal norms regarding beauty, marriage, and the often harsh realities faced by women who find themselves in similar fates. The opening sets the stage for a rich exploration of these themes, promising a blend of humor and poignant reflection on the nature of love and compatibility in the human experience.