The Abyss of Desire

A period novel beginning in the mid-1960s. An orphan raised in poverty, consumed by endless desire, and a dissolute man whose life has never known any light both chase fame and fortune, always managing to step right onto the leading edge of each era’s transformations. They climb over the lives and shoulders of others to gain power and wealth, then rise and fall amid high society and a life of indulgence.

Their desires swell until they can never be satisfied, and they sink so deeply into it that they can’t pull themselves free. In middle age, a master’s guidance finally opens their eyes, and they come to their senses. This story explores human nature. The protagonist is neither upright nor righteous, and after moving to the city for work, he changes his name to Wang Shengyang.