In early summer, grass and trees flourish,Lush branches encircle my thatched cottage.The flock of birds rejoices in their shelter,And I, too, cherish my humble dwelling. Having plowed and sown my fields,I now return in due season to read my books.My narrow lane is cut off from the deep ruts of the main road,Which keeps…
This commentary analyzes The Monster in the Buckwheat Field. Drawing on The Art of War, it interprets the tale: complacency after partial victories, isolation and lost vigilance lead to disaster, warning against persistent cunning adversaries.
From *Liaozhai*, this grim tale depicts old farmer An’s repeated run‑ins with a huge red‑haired demon in his buckwheat field. Though they drive it off with spears and crossbows, the beast fatally bites An, then vanishes without a trace.
Tao Yuanming (365–427CE) was a poet of the Eastern Jin dynasty. Also known as Tao Qian, with the courtesy name Yuanliang, he was given the posthumous private honorific title “Jingjie.” He was from Chaisang, Xunyang (in present-day southwestern Jiujiang, Jiangxi). He held several official posts, including Chief Sacrificial Wine Officer of Jiangzhou, Military Advisor…