Always Flawed, Forever Intoxicated

The Zhejiang Literature Museum has recently exhibited the “Great Chivalry” temporary exhibition dedicated to Jin Yong. Jin Yong has deep ties with Zhejiang; he was born in Yuanhua Town, Haining, Zhejiang, and studied in places like Jiaxing and Quzhou. His works frequently depict the customs and scenery of Zhejiang, such as the Yan Yu Lou of South Lake in Jiaxing, Peach Blossom Island in Zhoushan, and West Lake in Hangzhou, reflecting his deep affection for the region.

Jin Yong’s martial arts novels span thousands of years and cover a vast territory, from the Central Plains to the borderlands, narrating tales of loyalty and love amidst majestic landscapes. His monumental works, such as the phrase “Flying snow shoots the white deer, laughing at the gods leaning on the green mandarin,” have influenced generations. His achievements extend beyond literature; he was also the founder of Ming Pao and a commentator, actively engaged in education and cross-disciplinary exchanges with the internet. He was a legendary figure who could navigate the corridors of power or retreat to a life of seclusion. With a single pen, he made a grand impact on the world before gracefully stepping back.

Jin Yong was diligent yet never seemed rushed. In his youth, he worked in journalism; in middle age, he wrote books; and in his later years, he devoted himself to education. Even in his 80s, he pursued a Ph.D. at Cambridge. He always moved through life at his own pace, calm and composed, yet full of vitality.

If asked which martial arts character he would most like to become, he might least want to be Guo Jing from “The Legend of the Condor Heroes” and most want to be Wei Xiaobao from “The Deer and the Cauldron.” However, among all the characters, the one who most resembles him is Huang Rong.