The 2 Minute Book Review: excerpt from the book, my thoughts, and one practical life application.
Dream of the Red Chamber by Tsao Hsueh-Chin
2 minute read · By Warren Wong
Dream of the Red Chamber by Tsao Hsueh-Chin
Excerpt from the book:
After recovering from the strenuous activities attendant upon the visit of the Imperial Concubine, the Chia mansions settled down to a more leisurely enjoyment of the festivities of the New Year season. There were theatrical performances, lantern shows and conundrum-guessing games, banquets, friends to visit, and leaves for some of the more favored maidservants. Among these were Pervading Fragrance, who was given permission to spend a day with her family.
This is just a small glimpse into the life of a maidservant in 18th century China. It sets a powerful scene of how much has changed in the world since that time, and also how much remains the same.
My thoughts:
Dream of the Red Chamber was written in 18th century China. It is marked as one of the Four Great Classical Novels. As someone who grew up watching traditional Chinese movies and dramas, this was refreshing.
This novel is a great look into the inner workings of a complex household, with servants, retainers, sibling rivalries, and lover’s spats.
This book focuses on the human element with the backdrop of 18th century China. If you have never read Chinese literature, or are interested in one of the world’s oldest and greatest civilization, this book is for you.
Practical life application:
A study of history is a wealth of knowledge. This novel shows us that human emotions, traditions, and concepts of love may take many forms, but they are all part of the human condition, one that transcends time.
Buy The Book: Dreams of The Red Chamber
Note: For the sake of brevity, I am not doing the book justice. I am only giving you a small glimpse of the book. So please get the book and read it for yourself.
Check out my recommended books section where I picked out my favorite books by year and all time favorites.