Learning to Love in the Old City

Writing this at my age is just right. If I were a little older, stories about love and romance might seem too childish. If I were a little younger, I might focus too much on the flesh, on specific poses and settings, making it all seem vulgar.

And now? I'm on the verge of impotence.

Calm, yet full of life.

I can look at relationships between men and women without viewing them through the lens of sex.

I'm aiming for the Mao Dun Literature Prize with this book. And if they don't know what's good for them and refuse to give it to me?

No big deal.

I'll award it to myself.