A novel that truly represents Shanghai, Shanghainese culture, language and its historical urban imprints. If one doesn't like the superficiality and materialist / petty bourgeoisie style of some so-called "classic" Shanghai literatures, AND are able to read in Chinese, he or she should put a "Blossom" in hand. Spent three entire days reading it nonstop. Can't wait to see the English translation!
A book that transports readers to a world of its own, with its particular language, myths and sensibilities. It reproduces Shanghai in two time periods - the revolutionary and the superficial - so perfectly. I’ve never read anything like this
The book began with lives of some rich business people and their social circle in 1990s then flashback to early 1960 of one of these people, which is the main character. The author then spent equal amount writing continuing from these two leads in different timeline, presenting Shanghai and its people at these two period. It is obvious the author was nostalgic for his city of youth. But I didn’t get his opinion about present until very late of the book.
Everywhere in the book it is so full of Shanghai: the history, the streets, the people, the life style, even the slang. So much subtle and details that only Shanghai people understand. I thank Mr. Jin for reminding people that Shanghai is a city with its unique character. Every place deserves its own culture. No places should simply be a district that serve governments.
The language of the book is unique: mostly local folkish language but mixed with some literature seriousness.
The book also included 20 pictures illustrated by author himself.
自清代的《海上花列传》后的第二本用沪语的语境描写的上海人在三个时代的小说,而且一定要试试用沪语来文读后才能体会到作者的用心和讲述他那个时代的经历。 The second novels written in WU dialet in the context of Shanghainese life in 60s,70s,90s eras of New China. The first was Biographies of Flowers by the Seashore, is an 1892 novel by Han Bangqing. If you can try to read it in Wu dialet, you will appreciate what the author's intentions and his experience and it is a good novel.