The author of "Yingchuang Yicao" was deeply influenced by Pu Songling and wrote this book. The book is also known as "Liao Zhai", and the traces of imitation are really strong. After reading it, I felt that the stories in the book are neither twists and turns, nor touching. The stories about gods and ghosts are generally ordinary, and they are mostly clichés about a down-and-out person encountering a fox maiden and fairy. There is a lack of sympathy for the stranded and distressed people, and a lack of praise and longing for deep love. In terms of story telling, it is really not that far away from "Liao Zhai". The ending of each story mostly imitates the style of "Liao Zhai" and is written by Wai Shishi. From the epilogues of these stories, it is difficult to see the author's sympathy for those who have suffered misfortune, nor his search and reflection on the sophistication of human nature. He often even regards himself as the "head of the family", rarely attacks the arrogant people, but often saves and blames the poor people. He often blames the women and children of the common people with the righteousness of the spring and Autumn period. He sits on the sidelines and watches the plight and misfortune of others, and often expresses insignificant remarks and emotions. It has the arrogance of a scholar but not the magnanimity of a Confucian. Although it generally advises people to cultivate their moral character and do good deeds, it really lacks the Huohou in explaining world affairs and ethics based on the stories of gods and ghosts. In this sense, it is far inferior to "Notes on the Thatched Cottage". The story is neither novel and touching, nor the reasoning is good. It has a reputation as a prestigious book. However, the book contains more than 100 novels, among which there are some interesting things to read and occasionally touching words. Among the strange novels, it is indeed a readable book.
Conception: