| Summary |
"殺子報" by Lingyanqiaozi is a historical novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the lives of learned gentlemen in ancient China, notably focusing on the character of 錢正林, who embarks on a journey in pursuit of fame and fortune while navigating the complexities of friendships, societal expectations, and the entanglements of romance. As he prepares for the imperial examinations, his interactions with various characters provide a rich tapestry of thoughts on love, ambition, and the consequences of moral choices. The opening of the novel introduces us to 錢正林, a well-studied scholar traveling by boat along the Yangtze River, making a visit to an old friend, 褚光伯. As they reminisce about past glories and the weight of unfulfilled heroism, the narrative establishes a contemplative atmosphere filled with the beauty of nature and strategic discussions about life goals. The scene transitions to interactions with Buddhist monks, highlighting themes of introspection and moral integrity. The narrative hints at comical and perhaps perilous situations that arise from these encounters, setting the stage for a deeper examination of character as their stories unfold amidst the backdrop of ambition and personal aspirations. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
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