A Chinese classic, written at the start of the 19th Century when China was still ruled by the Ching Dynasty, and one that I have been remiss in not reading before. I wish that I’d read it earlier, as this is a simple tale of a simple life, told at the end of a journey. Of the six records, only four exist, but they are indeed powerful. Its hard to find a comparison, although in some ways I felt it was like the naturalism of Emile Zola, looking at reality with an objective eye, but not really because it fails to delve into the deep descriptions of the physical condition which typifies the French Naturalist movement. The Introduction (and at least one of my friends) characterized it as ¾ love story, and indeed that is how I would describe it too. But its not a fireworks and passion story, rather it’s a story of contentment and perseverance. The main protagonist and his wife are very comfortable with each other, despite going through many personal and economic travails. The treatment of the concubine which the wife wishes to introduce to the marriage is a good representation of the cultural customs of the time, as well as of the emotional issues. A very good read, and a good example of how to have a successful relationship despite adversity.