Abstract
Drawing on Yan’an-period 延安 (1937–1947) writings published or reprinted only during the past two decades, this article illuminates the prominent role that Xiao Jun 蕭軍 (1907–1988) played during the relatively liberal period that preceded the Yan’an Forum on Literature and Art in May 1942. A complex picture unfolds, reflecting Xiao Jun’s many contradictions. On the one hand, he comes across as the author who challenged the establishment line on literature and art most openly, who defended Wang Shiwei 王實味 (1906–1947) most vigorously, who insisted on his independence most doggedly. On the other hand, his cantankerous personality left him increasingly friendless and isolated. Though keen to make a positive impact on Yan’an society, by the end of 1942 Xiao Jun found himself marginalized and reduced entirely to spectator status.
Keywords
Xiao Jun, Ding Ling, Mao Zedong, Wang Shiwei, Yan’an Rectification Movement, Yan’an Forum on Literature and Art
Cite
Citations are generated automatically from bibliographic data as a convenience, and may not be complete or accurate.
