The Splendid Years

In the early 1980s, “going into business” was a thrilling prospect. Many people stood inside, peering out, but Lin Xiuyun couldn’t wait any longer. Chen Zhiyuan stood at the doorway, wiping down the frame of his brand-new Forever 28-inch bicycle with a rag until it gleamed, the lamplight flashing off it. “Make sure you’ve got enough cash. As for connections… your big brother’s got those!”