Unsettled Dust: A Lai's Essays from Tibet

This book is a selection of the finest essays by Mao Dun Literature Prize winner A Lai. It is divided into three parts. The most important features A Lai's writing on the customs and landscapes of Tibetan areas in western Sichuan: a place the world is quick to misunderstand, where reality and historical legend intertwine, and where a land shaped by centuries of legend and upheaval has found peace. Another part shares A Lai's reflections on reading foreign writers while ill, a dialogue between writers that helps readers better understand his literary ideas and convictions. The third part gathers writing related to important moments in A Lai's literary life and key texts, including prefaces and speeches. These pieces combine thoughtful literary ideas with graceful, poetic prose. Notably, the author also discusses the role music has played in his literary life.