The Romance of Wu Zixu

Wu Zixu was a minister of the State of Wu during the Spring and Autumn period. His given name was Yuan, and his courtesy name was Zixu. He was loyal and unyielding throughout his life, a man of both wisdom and courage. His tragic end leaves one filled with sorrow. After the Chu king Ping had his entire family put to death, Wu Zixu fled Chu alone. Worry turned his hair white as he passed through Zhaoguan, and he later begged for alms by playing the flute in the marketplace of Wu... These episodes perfectly illustrate the different stages of his personal growth. It was only after Wu Zixu had matured and joined the State of Wu that it became a leading power among the feudal lords.

Following Wu Zixu's life, the book portrays many historical figures and recounts the schemes, shifting alliances, and battles among the various states of the Spring and Autumn period. These include “Zhuan Zhu Assassinates King Liao,” “Yao Li Assassinates Qing Ji,” “Sun Wu Drills the Troops,” “Gan Jiang and Mo Ye Forge Swords,” and “Sleeping on Brushwood and Tasting Gall.” The story is vivid and full of twists, with a strong air of legend. Readers can savor its lessons on life while gaining an understanding of the culture and customs of the time.