Fortress Besieged: A Timeless Masterpiece that Captivates Readers | New Directions Classic

Have you ever come across a book that leaves you spellbound, unable to put it down until the very last page? Well, look no further, because Fortress Besieged by Qian Zhongshu is one such masterpiece that will take you on an extraordinary journey through its pages.

Fortress Besieged, published by New Directions Classic, is a work of art that has stood the test of time. With its captivating storyline, richly drawn characters, and insightful social commentary, this novel continues to resonate with readers from all walks of life.

This article aims to delve into the allure of Fortress Besieged, discuss why it has become a classic, and explore the impact it has had on literature. From its engaging plot to its beautifully descriptive prose, this novel has cemented its place among the greats.

Fortress Besieged (New Directions Classic)

by Steve Ahern(Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1567 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	420 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

The Captivating Plot

Set in 1930s China, Fortress Besieged follows the life of Fang Hung-chien, a young scholar who embarks on a journey of self-discovery after failing his civil service exams. During his journey, Fang encounters a myriad of eccentric characters, each with their own unique stories and ambitions.

The novel expertly weaves together elements of satire, romance, and social critique as Fang navigates the complexities of love, family obligations, and societal norms. Qian Zhongshu's skilled storytelling keeps readers engrossed as they eagerly turn each page, wondering what fate has in store for our protagonist.

Richly Drawn Characters

One of the standout features of Fortress Besieged is its ensemble cast of vividly portrayed characters. From the cunning Feng Fuzhen to the enigmatic Miss Su, each character comes to life through Qian Zhongshu's intricate characterization.

Readers will find themselves immersed in the lives of these complex individuals, experiencing their triumphs, heartaches, and moral dilemmas. Qian's ability to create multifaceted personalities adds depth and realism to the narrative, making it a truly unforgettable reading experience.

Social Commentary and Satire

Beyond the gripping plot and well-developed characters, Fortress Besieged serves as a brilliant social commentary on the tumultuous times in which it is set. Qian Zhongshu cleverly uses satire to tackle various aspects of Chinese society, from its education system to its cultural values and societal customs.

The novel offers insightful reflections on the contradictions and absurdities prevalent in pre-Communist China, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities faced by individuals living in that era. Qian's subtle wit shines through, offering readers both entertainment and intellectual stimulation in equal measure.

The Timeless Appeal

Despite being published over 80 years ago, Fortress Besieged continues to captivate readers today. Its themes of love, ambition, and societal pressure transcend time and cultural barriers, resonating with readers across generations.

The novel's enduring appeal can be attributed to its universal themes, lyrical prose, and the relatable struggles faced by its characters. Whether you are a fan of classic literature or a newcomer to the genre, Fortress Besieged is a masterpiece that is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.

Fortress Besieged, published by New Directions Classic, is a timeless novel that demands to be read. With its engaging plot, richly drawn characters, and insightful social commentary, Qian Zhongshu's masterpiece stands as a testament to the power of literature.

If you are seeking a novel that will transport you to another time and place while also challenging your perceptions of society, look no further than Fortress Besieged. Its impact on readers is undeniable, making it an essential addition to any literary collection.

Fortress Besieged (New Directions Classic)

by Steve Ahern(Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1567 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	420 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

The greatest Chinese novel of the twentieth century, Fortress Besieged is a classic of world literature, a masterpiece of parodic fiction that plays with Western literary traditions, philosophy, and middle-class Chinese society in the Republican era.

Set on the eve of the Sino-Japanese War, our hapless hero Fang Hung-chien (á la Emma Bovary),with no particular goal in life and with a bogus degree from a fake American university in hand, returns home to Shanghai. On the French liner home, he meets two Chinese beauties, Miss Su and Miss Pao. Qian writes, "With Miss Pao it wasn't a matter of heart or soul. She hadn't any change of heart, since she didn't have a heart." In a sort of painful comedy, Fang obtains a teaching post at a newly established university where the effete pseudo-intellectuals he encounters in academia become the butt of Qian's merciless satire. Soon Fang is trapped into a marriage of Nabokovian proportions of distress and absurdity. Recalling Fielding's Tom Jones in its farcical litany of misadventures and Flaubert's "style indirect libre," Fortress Besieged is its own unique feast of delights.