Podcast
Questions and Answers
What event prompted the distant uncle to send a picture with a specific pose to his relatives in America?
What event prompted the distant uncle to send a picture with a specific pose to his relatives in America?
- The fleeing of some Chinese to Taiwan
- The opening up of China to the West
- The Cultural Revolution in China (correct)
- The Communist Party coming to power in China
What motivated some Chinese to stay in China despite the fears of the Communists?
What motivated some Chinese to stay in China despite the fears of the Communists?
- A hope for better economic opportunities
- A desire to flee corrupt government and foreign invasion
- A sincere belief in Mao Ze-dong's ability to bring positive changes (correct)
- A fear of being unable to leave the country
When did Mao Ze-dong lead the Communist Party to power in China?
When did Mao Ze-dong lead the Communist Party to power in China?
- 1949 (correct)
- 1976
- 1959
- 1966
What did the distant uncle's pose in the photo, as described by the grandmother, symbolize?
What did the distant uncle's pose in the photo, as described by the grandmother, symbolize?
What is the reason for the protagonist's audition for the Central Liberation Army Arts Academy?
What is the reason for the protagonist's audition for the Central Liberation Army Arts Academy?
How many students, including the protagonist, are selected for the audition?
How many students, including the protagonist, are selected for the audition?
What is the protagonist's initial reaction to the opportunity to audition for the academy?
What is the protagonist's initial reaction to the opportunity to audition for the academy?
Why does the protagonist's family express concerns about the academy's admission process?
Why does the protagonist's family express concerns about the academy's admission process?
What is the family's revelation that hinders the protagonist's admission to the academy?
What is the family's revelation that hinders the protagonist's admission to the academy?
How does the protagonist feel after her family's revelation?
How does the protagonist feel after her family's revelation?
What does the family advise the protagonist to do regarding the audition?
What does the family advise the protagonist to do regarding the audition?
How does the protagonist feel after the family's advice?
How does the protagonist feel after the family's advice?
What does the protagonist's father suggest regarding the understanding of the situation?
What does the protagonist's father suggest regarding the understanding of the situation?
How does the protagonist react to her father's suggestion?
How does the protagonist react to her father's suggestion?
What is the atmosphere created by the family's sorrow and the protagonist's disappointment?
What is the atmosphere created by the family's sorrow and the protagonist's disappointment?
Why does the family express concerns about the academy's admission process?
Why does the family express concerns about the academy's admission process?
What led to a plague of insects, demonstrating Mao's lack of understanding of the ecosystem?
What led to a plague of insects, demonstrating Mao's lack of understanding of the ecosystem?
What was the main reason behind the birth of the Cultural Revolution?
What was the main reason behind the birth of the Cultural Revolution?
What impact did the Cultural Revolution have on the masses it aimed to help?
What impact did the Cultural Revolution have on the masses it aimed to help?
What does the author reflect on in relation to Ji-li during the Cultural Revolution?
What does the author reflect on in relation to Ji-li during the Cultural Revolution?
What does the prologue reveal about Ji-li's pre-Cultural Revolution life?
What does the prologue reveal about Ji-li's pre-Cultural Revolution life?
What was Mao's leadership skill in uniting the nation, according to the text?
What was Mao's leadership skill in uniting the nation, according to the text?
What might have led to a more positive memory of Mao if he had died before the Cultural Revolution?
What might have led to a more positive memory of Mao if he had died before the Cultural Revolution?
What does the author hope for in relation to Ji-li's actions during the Cultural Revolution?
What does the author hope for in relation to Ji-li's actions during the Cultural Revolution?
What was the impact of Mao's rivals gaining power within the Communist Party?
What was the impact of Mao's rivals gaining power within the Communist Party?
What event led to a scene in the classroom where a Liberation Army soldier evaluates Ji-li's skills?
What event led to a scene in the classroom where a Liberation Army soldier evaluates Ji-li's skills?
What did Mao's order to hunt and kill sparrows lead to?
What did Mao's order to hunt and kill sparrows lead to?
What did the Cultural Revolution bring to the young people of China?
What did the Cultural Revolution bring to the young people of China?
What is the protagonist's father worried about regarding the audition?
What is the protagonist's father worried about regarding the audition?
Why does the protagonist flee before any questions are asked at the principal's office?
Why does the protagonist flee before any questions are asked at the principal's office?
What is the profession of the protagonist's father?
What is the profession of the protagonist's father?
Who is Song Po-po to the protagonist's family?
Who is Song Po-po to the protagonist's family?
What is the grandmother known for?
What is the grandmother known for?
Where does the family live?
Where does the family live?
What is the protagonist's mother's former profession?
What is the protagonist's mother's former profession?
What do the protagonist's younger siblings, Ji-yong and Ji-yun, have?
What do the protagonist's younger siblings, Ji-yong and Ji-yun, have?
Why are the protagonist's best friend and teacher surprised and disappointed?
Why are the protagonist's best friend and teacher surprised and disappointed?
What is the family's connection to the arts and education?
What is the family's connection to the arts and education?
What is the protagonist's father known for as a stage actor?
What is the protagonist's father known for as a stage actor?
How would you describe the family's bond?
How would you describe the family's bond?
What is the name of the narrator's Fourth Aunt's granddaughter?
What is the name of the narrator's Fourth Aunt's granddaughter?
What event takes place on Saturday evenings at the narrator's home?
What event takes place on Saturday evenings at the narrator's home?
What shakes the narrator's dream of a future career?
What shakes the narrator's dream of a future career?
What is the significance of the phrase 'DESTROY THE FOUR OLDS' in the text?
What is the significance of the phrase 'DESTROY THE FOUR OLDS' in the text?
Where do the narrator and her siblings go every Sunday to rent picture books?
Where do the narrator and her siblings go every Sunday to rent picture books?
What is the condition of the alley where the narrator lives?
What is the condition of the alley where the narrator lives?
What does Grandpa Hong always do when the narrator and her siblings visit his bookstall?
What does Grandpa Hong always do when the narrator and her siblings visit his bookstall?
Who lives downstairs from the narrator's family?
Who lives downstairs from the narrator's family?
What is the narrator's initial feeling about their room in Shanghai?
What is the narrator's initial feeling about their room in Shanghai?
What does the narrator wonder about her dreams?
What does the narrator wonder about her dreams?
What changes the narrator's perspective and makes her feel less lucky?
What changes the narrator's perspective and makes her feel less lucky?
What do Dad's colleagues visit for on Saturday evenings?
What do Dad's colleagues visit for on Saturday evenings?
What is the significance of the term 'four olds' in the given text?
What is the significance of the term 'four olds' in the given text?
What was the reaction of the crowd when the students began cutting open the shoes?
What was the reaction of the crowd when the students began cutting open the shoes?
What did the students do when the man attempted to walk away?
What did the students do when the man attempted to walk away?
How did the man react when his shoes were thrown at him by the students?
How did the man react when his shoes were thrown at him by the students?
What is the purpose of the da-zi-bao movement in the story?
What is the purpose of the da-zi-bao movement in the story?
What does the da-zi-bao movement reveal about the students' perception?
What does the da-zi-bao movement reveal about the students' perception?
What action leads to the initiation of the da-zi-bao movement?
What action leads to the initiation of the da-zi-bao movement?
What is the main activity of the da-zi-bao movement?
What is the main activity of the da-zi-bao movement?
What is the students' attitude towards the da-zi-bao movement?
What is the students' attitude towards the da-zi-bao movement?
What is the influence reflected by the da-zi-bao movement?
What is the influence reflected by the da-zi-bao movement?
What is the central theme of the students' engagement in the da-zi-bao movement?
What is the central theme of the students' engagement in the da-zi-bao movement?
What is the role of Du Hai in the story?
What is the role of Du Hai in the story?
What is the response of the students after being ridiculed by Du Hai and Yang Fan?
What is the response of the students after being ridiculed by Du Hai and Yang Fan?
What does the absence of teachers signify during the da-zi-bao movement?
What does the absence of teachers signify during the da-zi-bao movement?
What does the da-zi-bao movement reveal about the classrooms?
What does the da-zi-bao movement reveal about the classrooms?
What is the key feature of the da-zi-bao movement?
What is the key feature of the da-zi-bao movement?
What were da-zi-bao used for during the Cultural Revolution?
What were da-zi-bao used for during the Cultural Revolution?
Where were da-zi-bao found in the school?
Where were da-zi-bao found in the school?
What did students do to fill their da-zi-bao?
What did students do to fill their da-zi-bao?
What task were the students given regarding da-zi-bao and bourgeoisie individuals?
What task were the students given regarding da-zi-bao and bourgeoisie individuals?
What does the text highlight about the influence of the Cultural Revolution on students' perceptions and actions?
What does the text highlight about the influence of the Cultural Revolution on students' perceptions and actions?
What does the protagonist struggle to find for their da-zi-bao?
What does the protagonist struggle to find for their da-zi-bao?
What does the protagonist decide to copy for their da-zi-bao?
What does the protagonist decide to copy for their da-zi-bao?
What does the protagonist reflect on regarding the accusations in da-zi-bao?
What does the protagonist reflect on regarding the accusations in da-zi-bao?
What event takes place in the classroom with Old Qian and Jiang Xi-wen?
What event takes place in the classroom with Old Qian and Jiang Xi-wen?
What does the story capture regarding the conflict between da-zi-bao and students' personal experiences with teachers?
What does the story capture regarding the conflict between da-zi-bao and students' personal experiences with teachers?
What does the protagonist's internal conflict reflect?
What does the protagonist's internal conflict reflect?
What is the content of the da-zi-bao that distresses Jiang Ji-li?
What is the content of the da-zi-bao that distresses Jiang Ji-li?
Who advises Jiang Ji-li to stay home after the da-zi-bao incident?
Who advises Jiang Ji-li to stay home after the da-zi-bao incident?
What does An Yi share with Jiang Ji-li after the da-zi-bao incident?
What does An Yi share with Jiang Ji-li after the da-zi-bao incident?
What becomes influential due to the support of the Central Committee?
What becomes influential due to the support of the Central Committee?
What does Jiang Ji-li question after the da-zi-bao incident?
What does Jiang Ji-li question after the da-zi-bao incident?
What does An Yi update Jiang Ji-li on after the da-zi-bao incident?
What does An Yi update Jiang Ji-li on after the da-zi-bao incident?
What causes chaos in Jiang Ji-li's school during the Cultural Revolution?
What causes chaos in Jiang Ji-li's school during the Cultural Revolution?
Who comforts Jiang Ji-li after she falls ill?
Who comforts Jiang Ji-li after she falls ill?
What does Jiang Ji-li feel after reading the da-zi-bao?
What does Jiang Ji-li feel after reading the da-zi-bao?
What does the da-zi-bao accuse Jiang Ji-li of?
What does the da-zi-bao accuse Jiang Ji-li of?
What does An Yi witness that leads to her informing Jiang Ji-li about it?
What does An Yi witness that leads to her informing Jiang Ji-li about it?
What does Jiang Ji-li seek from An Yi after becoming emotional?
What does Jiang Ji-li seek from An Yi after becoming emotional?
What is the reason for Ji-li's conflicted feelings during the public shaming of Jiang Xi-wen?
What is the reason for Ji-li's conflicted feelings during the public shaming of Jiang Xi-wen?
How does Ji-li react to the public shaming of Jiang Xi-wen?
How does Ji-li react to the public shaming of Jiang Xi-wen?
What causes alarm in Ji-li's apartment?
What causes alarm in Ji-li's apartment?
What does the public shaming of Jiang Xi-wen highlight?
What does the public shaming of Jiang Xi-wen highlight?
How do Ji-li's classmates react on the way back to school after the public shaming?
How do Ji-li's classmates react on the way back to school after the public shaming?
What influences Ji-li's attempt to shake off the influence of 'evil stories' she read at Grandpa Hong's bookstall?
What influences Ji-li's attempt to shake off the influence of 'evil stories' she read at Grandpa Hong's bookstall?
What causes alarm in Ji-li's apartment?
What causes alarm in Ji-li's apartment?
What does the story highlight about the individuals perceived as bourgeois during the Cultural Revolution?
What does the story highlight about the individuals perceived as bourgeois during the Cultural Revolution?
What is the main reason for Ji-li's conflicted feelings during the public shaming of Jiang Xi-wen?
What is the main reason for Ji-li's conflicted feelings during the public shaming of Jiang Xi-wen?
What is the protagonist's reaction to the public shaming of Jiang Xi-wen?
What is the protagonist's reaction to the public shaming of Jiang Xi-wen?
What influences Ji-li's attempt to shake off the influence of 'evil stories' she read at Grandpa Hong's bookstall?
What influences Ji-li's attempt to shake off the influence of 'evil stories' she read at Grandpa Hong's bookstall?
What causes alarm in Ji-li's apartment?
What causes alarm in Ji-li's apartment?
What does Teacher Gu inform Ji-li about the junior high school admissions policy?
What does Teacher Gu inform Ji-li about the junior high school admissions policy?
What does the badge of Shi-yi Junior High symbolize for Ji-li?
What does the badge of Shi-yi Junior High symbolize for Ji-li?
Why does Ji-li avoid being seen with Teacher Gu for nearly a month?
Why does Ji-li avoid being seen with Teacher Gu for nearly a month?
What emotion does Ji-li experience when Teacher Gu informs her about being assigned to Shi-yi Junior High?
What emotion does Ji-li experience when Teacher Gu informs her about being assigned to Shi-yi Junior High?
What was the main aim of the Red Guards' campaign to 'Destroy the Four Olds'?
What was the main aim of the Red Guards' campaign to 'Destroy the Four Olds'?
What did the Red Guards do to publicly shame and condemn those they targeted?
What did the Red Guards do to publicly shame and condemn those they targeted?
Why did the protagonist's grandmother try to shield the children from the search party's activities?
Why did the protagonist's grandmother try to shield the children from the search party's activities?
What did the community members discuss about the targeted individual, Mrs. Rong?
What did the community members discuss about the targeted individual, Mrs. Rong?
What did the crowd show as the search party carried out valuable possessions, including a large bed?
What did the crowd show as the search party carried out valuable possessions, including a large bed?
What did the protagonist's family also possess, highlighting the widespread impact of the campaign?
What did the protagonist's family also possess, highlighting the widespread impact of the campaign?
How did the protagonist feel during the search, and what did her curiosity lead her to do?
How did the protagonist feel during the search, and what did her curiosity lead her to do?
What was the community's reaction to the confiscation of Mrs. Rong's possessions?
What was the community's reaction to the confiscation of Mrs. Rong's possessions?
What did the protagonist feel as the crowd admired the confiscated bed?
What did the protagonist feel as the crowd admired the confiscated bed?
What was the Red Guards' approach to eliminate personal possessions during the campaign?
What was the Red Guards' approach to eliminate personal possessions during the campaign?
What did the protagonist's brother want to do, and how did their grandmother respond?
What did the protagonist's brother want to do, and how did their grandmother respond?
What was the community's reaction to the confiscation of Mrs. Rong's possessions?
What was the community's reaction to the confiscation of Mrs. Rong's possessions?
What shift in atmosphere occurs in the neighborhood?
What shift in atmosphere occurs in the neighborhood?
Who takes on more responsibilities, including shopping for food, after Song Po-po leaves?
Who takes on more responsibilities, including shopping for food, after Song Po-po leaves?
What does the narrator feel after taking on more responsibilities?
What does the narrator feel after taking on more responsibilities?
What is the reason for Six-Fingers' active involvement in the searches?
What is the reason for Six-Fingers' active involvement in the searches?
What leads to the dismissal of Song Po-po?
What leads to the dismissal of Song Po-po?
What does the absence of Song Po-po bring to the family?
What does the absence of Song Po-po bring to the family?
What does Ji-yong's response to the searches reveal?
What does Ji-yong's response to the searches reveal?
Who takes over cooking when Grandma falls ill?
Who takes over cooking when Grandma falls ill?
What motivates the children to take on more responsibilities?
What motivates the children to take on more responsibilities?
What does the neighborhood experience frequently, causing tension and fear?
What does the neighborhood experience frequently, causing tension and fear?
Who is too sick to work but actively involved in the searches?
Who is too sick to work but actively involved in the searches?
What is the impact of Song Po-po's departure?
What is the impact of Song Po-po's departure?
What mode of transportation does Ji-yong use to take Grandma to the clinic?
What mode of transportation does Ji-yong use to take Grandma to the clinic?
What is the fate of Grandma's trunks as discussed in the story?
What is the fate of Grandma's trunks as discussed in the story?
What does the narrative highlight about the father's commitments?
What does the narrative highlight about the father's commitments?
What does Grandma express sentimentality towards in the story?
What does Grandma express sentimentality towards in the story?
What does the family encounter difficulties with on their way to the clinic?
What does the family encounter difficulties with on their way to the clinic?
What does the story primarily portray about the family?
What does the story primarily portray about the family?
What does Grandma's leaving the scene symbolize in the story?
What does Grandma's leaving the scene symbolize in the story?
What is the reason for dyeing Grandma's trunks black?
What is the reason for dyeing Grandma's trunks black?
What is the family's main focus in the story?
What is the family's main focus in the story?
What does the family's resilience and unity primarily showcase?
What does the family's resilience and unity primarily showcase?
What is the protagonist's struggle in the story related to?
What is the protagonist's struggle in the story related to?
What does the family ultimately achieve despite the challenges they face?
What does the family ultimately achieve despite the challenges they face?
What do the girls decide to do after graduating without a ceremony or party?
What do the girls decide to do after graduating without a ceremony or party?
What does Teacher Gu confirm to the girls?
What does Teacher Gu confirm to the girls?
What do the girls find when they revisit the school?
What do the girls find when they revisit the school?
What does the protagonist work on during the summer heat?
What does the protagonist work on during the summer heat?
What does the text convey about the protagonist's feelings?
What does the text convey about the protagonist's feelings?
What do the girls learn about the teachers' assignments?
What do the girls learn about the teachers' assignments?
What do the girls decide to do when they hear the familiar sound of drums and gongs in the distance?
What do the girls decide to do when they hear the familiar sound of drums and gongs in the distance?
How do the girls feel about the new directive regarding school assignments?
How do the girls feel about the new directive regarding school assignments?
What do the girls purchase after graduating without a ceremony or party?
What do the girls purchase after graduating without a ceremony or party?
What do the girls find when they revisit the school's library?
What do the girls find when they revisit the school's library?
What do the girls learn about the students' school assignments?
What do the girls learn about the students' school assignments?
What do the girls decide to ask Teacher Gu about?
What do the girls decide to ask Teacher Gu about?
What did the Red Guards take from the house?
What did the Red Guards take from the house?
What did the protagonist witness at An Yi's back door?
What did the protagonist witness at An Yi's back door?
What did An Yi's grandmother do?
What did An Yi's grandmother do?
What did the protagonist ask An Yi's grandmother a few days ago?
What did the protagonist ask An Yi's grandmother a few days ago?
What does the protagonist wish for in relation to their family?
What does the protagonist wish for in relation to their family?
What is the treasured possession stolen from Ji-yong?
What is the treasured possession stolen from Ji-yong?
What are Ji-yong, Xiao-cheng, and Ming-ming known as in their alley?
What are Ji-yong, Xiao-cheng, and Ming-ming known as in their alley?
What does the protagonist feel amidst the constant changes brought by the Cultural Revolution?
What does the protagonist feel amidst the constant changes brought by the Cultural Revolution?
What does the protagonist ponder about their family members in relation to the revolution?
What does the protagonist ponder about their family members in relation to the revolution?
What is the family's reaction to the restrictions of the Cultural Revolution?
What is the family's reaction to the restrictions of the Cultural Revolution?
What influences the protagonist's dreams?
What influences the protagonist's dreams?
Who is mentioned as a target of hatred due to political affiliations?
Who is mentioned as a target of hatred due to political affiliations?
What does the family do due to the restrictions imposed by the Cultural Revolution?
What does the family do due to the restrictions imposed by the Cultural Revolution?
What does the protagonist reflect on regarding Chairman Mao, Liu Shao-qi, and Deng Xiao-ping?
What does the protagonist reflect on regarding Chairman Mao, Liu Shao-qi, and Deng Xiao-ping?
What does the family burn under the influence of the Cultural Revolution?
What does the family burn under the influence of the Cultural Revolution?
What does the protagonist wish to avoid and fulfill?
What does the protagonist wish to avoid and fulfill?
What is the family's secret sign to indicate if the Red Guards are at their house?
What is the family's secret sign to indicate if the Red Guards are at their house?
What does the protagonist reflect on regarding Grandma?
What does the protagonist reflect on regarding Grandma?
What does the family burn to avoid persecution during the Cultural Revolution?
What does the family burn to avoid persecution during the Cultural Revolution?
What was Grandma's struggle at a young age?
What was Grandma's struggle at a young age?
What does Dad express concern about regarding the burning of pictures?
What does Dad express concern about regarding the burning of pictures?
What does the text give a glimpse into regarding the impact of the Cultural Revolution?
What does the text give a glimpse into regarding the impact of the Cultural Revolution?
What does Grandma express worry about?
What does Grandma express worry about?
What does the family do to avoid persecution during the Cultural Revolution?
What does the family do to avoid persecution during the Cultural Revolution?
What is the family's relationship with Grandma in the neighborhood?
What is the family's relationship with Grandma in the neighborhood?
What does Mom do when she comes home looking nervous?
What does Mom do when she comes home looking nervous?
What does the smoke from burning pictures signify?
What does the smoke from burning pictures signify?
What does the family share that indicates the impact of the Cultural Revolution?
What does the family share that indicates the impact of the Cultural Revolution?
What was the reason for Xiao-cheng’s father being suspended and under investigation?
What was the reason for Xiao-cheng’s father being suspended and under investigation?
What caused fear and tension in the whole family during the Red Guards' search?
What caused fear and tension in the whole family during the Red Guards' search?
What led to chaos and disorder in the house during the Red Guards' search?
What led to chaos and disorder in the house during the Red Guards' search?
What brought the three friends, Xiao-cheng, Ming-ming, and Ji-yong closer?
What brought the three friends, Xiao-cheng, Ming-ming, and Ji-yong closer?
What caused fear in the neighborhood before the Red Guards' arrival?
What caused fear in the neighborhood before the Red Guards' arrival?
What did Ji-yong do despite the family's troubles?
What did Ji-yong do despite the family's troubles?
What caused the family to spend a tense day in the park?
What caused the family to spend a tense day in the park?
What was Ming-ming’s father under arrest for?
What was Ming-ming’s father under arrest for?
What caused fear and tension in the whole family during the search of Fourth Aunt’s apartment?
What caused fear and tension in the whole family during the search of Fourth Aunt’s apartment?
What did the Red Guards' search cause in the house?
What did the Red Guards' search cause in the house?
What did the family endure during the search by the Red Guards?
What did the family endure during the search by the Red Guards?
What did the text highlight about the Cultural Revolution and the Red Guards' actions?
What did the text highlight about the Cultural Revolution and the Red Guards' actions?
What did An Yi's family refrain from doing at the crematorium due to the stigma of suicide?
What did An Yi's family refrain from doing at the crematorium due to the stigma of suicide?
Why were An Yi and her mother warned not to ally with a 'bad class' after the grandmother's suicide?
Why were An Yi and her mother warned not to ally with a 'bad class' after the grandmother's suicide?
What prompted Dad to suggest a picnic with Grandma for the children?
What prompted Dad to suggest a picnic with Grandma for the children?
What did the family set off for in the cool morning, despite the promise of a hot day ahead?
What did the family set off for in the cool morning, despite the promise of a hot day ahead?
What is the setting of the story?
What is the setting of the story?
What was An Yi's grandmother known for despite her own struggles?
What was An Yi's grandmother known for despite her own struggles?
How did the environment at the crematorium during the memorial service feel?
How did the environment at the crematorium during the memorial service feel?
What was the protagonist's family's reaction to Dad's colleagues, Uncle Tian and Aunt Wu, visiting?
What was the protagonist's family's reaction to Dad's colleagues, Uncle Tian and Aunt Wu, visiting?
What position was Chang Hong elected to in the school?
What position was Chang Hong elected to in the school?
What does the protagonist reach for in their pocket during the Morning Benediction?
What does the protagonist reach for in their pocket during the Morning Benediction?
What would happen if the head of the school found out that the protagonist had forgotten their Precious Red Book?
What would happen if the head of the school found out that the protagonist had forgotten their Precious Red Book?
What does the protagonist feel about their deskmate, Chang Hong, after her election to the Red Guards Committee?
What does the protagonist feel about their deskmate, Chang Hong, after her election to the Red Guards Committee?
What task is the protagonist assigned at the Children’s Art Theater?
What task is the protagonist assigned at the Children’s Art Theater?
How does the protagonist gain an unexpected opportunity to see their father briefly?
How does the protagonist gain an unexpected opportunity to see their father briefly?
What does the father do under harsh conditions, observed by the protagonist?
What does the father do under harsh conditions, observed by the protagonist?
What contrasts the family's previous lifestyle with their current struggles?
What contrasts the family's previous lifestyle with their current struggles?
What is evident throughout the text regarding the protagonist's feelings?
What is evident throughout the text regarding the protagonist's feelings?
What is the protagonist's main struggle in the story related to?
What is the protagonist's main struggle in the story related to?
What does the text primarily portray about the impact of political repression?
What does the text primarily portray about the impact of political repression?
How are the family's social status and relationships affected by the political situation?
How are the family's social status and relationships affected by the political situation?
What does the protagonist encounter when trying to see their father?
What does the protagonist encounter when trying to see their father?
What does the protagonist's emotional turmoil primarily reflect?
What does the protagonist's emotional turmoil primarily reflect?
What does the mother face in terms of cooperation with authorities?
What does the mother face in terms of cooperation with authorities?
What is the protagonist's role in the family's struggle?
What is the protagonist's role in the family's struggle?
What is the family's main concern regarding their association with Uncle Fan?
What is the family's main concern regarding their association with Uncle Fan?
What psychological pressure does the family grapple with?
What psychological pressure does the family grapple with?
What does the text highlight about the atmosphere during the Cultural Revolution in China?
What does the text highlight about the atmosphere during the Cultural Revolution in China?
What leads to tension and fear in the family?
What leads to tension and fear in the family?
What is Dad pressured to do during the Cultural Revolution?
What is Dad pressured to do during the Cultural Revolution?
What does the family struggle with due to Uncle Fan's detainment?
What does the family struggle with due to Uncle Fan's detainment?
What does the narrator reflect on regarding Uncle Fan's past?
What does the narrator reflect on regarding Uncle Fan's past?
What is the family's reaction to Uncle Fan's appearance at their house?
What is the family's reaction to Uncle Fan's appearance at their house?
What does the family fear in relation to Uncle Fan's detaining?
What does the family fear in relation to Uncle Fan's detaining?
What does the family refuse to do in relation to Uncle Fan?
What does the family refuse to do in relation to Uncle Fan?
What does the family struggle with regarding Uncle Fan's detainment?
What does the family struggle with regarding Uncle Fan's detainment?
What does the family fear regarding their own potential punishment?
What does the family fear regarding their own potential punishment?
What is the reason behind the father's detainment?
What is the reason behind the father's detainment?
What is the mother's illness that renders her helpless during sudden attacks?
What is the mother's illness that renders her helpless during sudden attacks?
What is the atmosphere during the narrator's 14th birthday?
What is the atmosphere during the narrator's 14th birthday?
What does the grandmother do to express her concern for her son's safety?
What does the grandmother do to express her concern for her son's safety?
What is the family's main concern regarding the father's detainment?
What is the family's main concern regarding the father's detainment?
What is the narrator's task regarding Uncle Tian?
What is the narrator's task regarding Uncle Tian?
What is the family's reaction to the mother's cold reception at her office?
What is the family's reaction to the mother's cold reception at her office?
What is the family preparing for, although there is no mention of it and no celebration?
What is the family preparing for, although there is no mention of it and no celebration?
What is the family's struggle that casts a shadow over the Chinese New Year?
What is the family's struggle that casts a shadow over the Chinese New Year?
What does the family suspect led to the father's detainment?
What does the family suspect led to the father's detainment?
What is the narrator's concern about the father's actions?
What is the narrator's concern about the father's actions?
What is the main reason behind the mother's helplessness during sudden attacks?
What is the main reason behind the mother's helplessness during sudden attacks?
What does the protagonist find reminiscent of her past self?
What does the protagonist find reminiscent of her past self?
Who is described as a highly respected and dedicated educator?
Who is described as a highly respected and dedicated educator?
What leads to the protagonist's anxiety and worry about her class status?
What leads to the protagonist's anxiety and worry about her class status?
Why is the protagonist reluctant to join the propaganda group?
Why is the protagonist reluctant to join the propaganda group?
What interrupts the protagonist's reading during winter vacation?
What interrupts the protagonist's reading during winter vacation?
What does the text convey about the protagonist's fear?
What does the text convey about the protagonist's fear?
Why is the protagonist asked to join the propaganda group for the blackboard newspaper?
Why is the protagonist asked to join the propaganda group for the blackboard newspaper?
What does the protagonist find impressive about her classmate?
What does the protagonist find impressive about her classmate?
What does the protagonist fear about joining the propaganda group?
What does the protagonist fear about joining the propaganda group?
What does the protagonist feel conflicted and hesitant about?
What does the protagonist feel conflicted and hesitant about?
What book is the protagonist reading during winter vacation?
What book is the protagonist reading during winter vacation?
What does the protagonist receive from a classmate to prevent getting into trouble?
What does the protagonist receive from a classmate to prevent getting into trouble?
What did Chairman Jin suggest to add to the presentation?
What did Chairman Jin suggest to add to the presentation?
Who requests Jiang Ji-li to come to the office, leading to her nervousness?
Who requests Jiang Ji-li to come to the office, leading to her nervousness?
What is Jiang Ji-li's initial reaction upon being called to the office?
What is Jiang Ji-li's initial reaction upon being called to the office?
Who is waiting for Jiang Ji-li in the office, causing her dismay?
Who is waiting for Jiang Ji-li in the office, causing her dismay?
What is the protagonist's primary reason for being sent to the countryside?
What is the protagonist's primary reason for being sent to the countryside?
What type of work are the protagonist and her classmates primarily engaged in during their summer labor?
What type of work are the protagonist and her classmates primarily engaged in during their summer labor?
What time do they start their work in the rice fields?
What time do they start their work in the rice fields?
What happens to the protagonist by the third day of work?
What happens to the protagonist by the third day of work?
Who offers to help the protagonist when she injures herself with the sickle?
Who offers to help the protagonist when she injures herself with the sickle?
What is the protagonist's initial reaction to Bai Shan's offer of help?
What is the protagonist's initial reaction to Bai Shan's offer of help?
What does the text primarily convey about the protagonist's attitude towards accepting help?
What does the text primarily convey about the protagonist's attitude towards accepting help?
What emotions does Bai Shan display when the protagonist refuses his help?
What emotions does Bai Shan display when the protagonist refuses his help?
What does the setting of the countryside primarily provide for the protagonist's internal struggle?
What does the setting of the countryside primarily provide for the protagonist's internal struggle?
What aspect of the protagonist's relationship with Bai Shan is explored in the text?
What aspect of the protagonist's relationship with Bai Shan is explored in the text?
What is the main focus of the text regarding the protagonist's experience in the countryside?
What is the main focus of the text regarding the protagonist's experience in the countryside?
What does the protagonist strive to demonstrate through her actions during the summer labor?
What does the protagonist strive to demonstrate through her actions during the summer labor?
What is Jiang Ji-li pressured to do at the struggle meeting?
What is Jiang Ji-li pressured to do at the struggle meeting?
What does Bai Shan warn Jiang Ji-li about when entering the exhibition hall?
What does Bai Shan warn Jiang Ji-li about when entering the exhibition hall?
What does the text primarily depict about Jiang Ji-li's experience?
What does the text primarily depict about Jiang Ji-li's experience?
What does Thin-Face inform Jiang Ji-li about her father's mistakes?
What does Thin-Face inform Jiang Ji-li about her father's mistakes?
What does Jiang Ji-li struggle to do after the confrontation with her father's colleagues?
What does Jiang Ji-li struggle to do after the confrontation with her father's colleagues?
What does Jiang Ji-li try to focus on the next day?
What does Jiang Ji-li try to focus on the next day?
How does Jiang Ji-li feel when she enters the exhibition hall?
How does Jiang Ji-li feel when she enters the exhibition hall?
What ultimatum is Jiang Ji-li given?
What ultimatum is Jiang Ji-li given?
Who informs Jiang Ji-li about her father's serious mistakes?
Who informs Jiang Ji-li about her father's serious mistakes?
What do Thin-Face and a woman state they will return for?
What do Thin-Face and a woman state they will return for?
What does Jiang Ji-li feel after Thin-Face and the woman leave?
What does Jiang Ji-li feel after Thin-Face and the woman leave?
What does Jiang Ji-li struggle with after the struggle meeting is announced?
What does Jiang Ji-li struggle with after the struggle meeting is announced?
What does Chang Hong urge Jiang Ji-li to do?
What does Chang Hong urge Jiang Ji-li to do?
What does the setting of the Red Guard Committee office describe?
What does the setting of the Red Guard Committee office describe?
What does Jiang Ji-li feel after Chairman Jin informs her about Fang Fang replacing her?
What does Jiang Ji-li feel after Chairman Jin informs her about Fang Fang replacing her?
What does Chang Hong emphasize to Jiang Ji-li?
What does Chang Hong emphasize to Jiang Ji-li?
Why does Jiang Ji-li decide to go to the countryside?
Why does Jiang Ji-li decide to go to the countryside?
What does Chang Hong express concern for regarding Jiang Ji-li?
What does Chang Hong express concern for regarding Jiang Ji-li?
What does Jiang Ji-li reflect on regarding Chang Hong?
What does Jiang Ji-li reflect on regarding Chang Hong?
What does Chang Hong insist on discussing with Jiang Ji-li?
What does Chang Hong insist on discussing with Jiang Ji-li?
What does Jiang Ji-li leave behind in the exhibition booth?
What does Jiang Ji-li leave behind in the exhibition booth?
What does Chairman Jin inform Jiang Ji-li about?
What does Chairman Jin inform Jiang Ji-li about?
What does Jiang Ji-li meet with Chang Hong at?
What does Jiang Ji-li meet with Chang Hong at?
What does Jiang Ji-li decide to do after meeting with Chang Hong?
What does Jiang Ji-li decide to do after meeting with Chang Hong?
What does Ji-li do despite feeling unwell?
What does Ji-li do despite feeling unwell?
What distracts Ji-li's thoughts while working?
What distracts Ji-li's thoughts while working?
What prompts Ji-li's eventual return home?
What prompts Ji-li's eventual return home?
What does Uncle Tian discuss with Ji-li's mother?
What does Uncle Tian discuss with Ji-li's mother?
What does Ji-li ponder about the papers left by her mother?
What does Ji-li ponder about the papers left by her mother?
What does Ji-li recite for motivation?
What does Ji-li recite for motivation?
Where does Ji-li find solace after fainting at work?
Where does Ji-li find solace after fainting at work?
What does Ji-li feel after her friend's visit?
What does Ji-li feel after her friend's visit?
What does Ji-li experience before regaining consciousness?
What does Ji-li experience before regaining consciousness?
Why does Ji-li eventually relent and return home?
Why does Ji-li eventually relent and return home?
What does Ji-li's friend, Chang Hong, inform her about?
What does Ji-li's friend, Chang Hong, inform her about?
What does Ji-li do despite her physical condition?
What does Ji-li do despite her physical condition?
Study Notes
Childhood Memories in Shanghai
- The narrator's Fourth Aunt, living downstairs, had a daughter named You-mei and a granddaughter called Hua-hua
- The extended family used to occupy two buildings, now only two families remain
- The narrator's family shares one room, but they love it because it is spacious and bright with a private bathroom
- Saturday evenings are special with Dad's colleagues visiting for "Jiang's salon" gatherings, where they enjoy food and company
- The narrator feels like the luckiest girl in the world until an audition changes her perspective
- The narrator's dream of a future career is shaken after failing the audition
- The narrator reflects on her dreams and wonders if they will drift away like soap bubbles
- The phrase "DESTROY THE FOUR OLDS" is mentioned, hinting at the political climate of the time
- Every Sunday, the narrator and her siblings visit Grandpa Hong's bookstall to rent picture books
- The alley where they live is described as once being for wealthy families but now shared by several families
- Grandpa Hong always gives them an extra book for free
- The neighborhood and its residents are described in detail, emphasizing the connection between the children and Grandpa Hong
Cultural Revolution and Da-zi-bao
- Jiang Ji-li's name appears in a da-zi-bao, causing her distress
- An Yi witnesses the da-zi-bao and informs Jiang Ji-li about it
- Jiang Ji-li feels ashamed and humiliated after reading the da-zi-bao
- The da-zi-bao accuses Jiang Ji-li of having an inappropriate relationship with her teacher, Ke Cheng-li
- Jiang Ji-li becomes emotional and seeks solace from An Yi
- An Yi shares her own experience of da-zi-bao about her mother
- Jiang Ji-li is advised to stay home by her parents after the incident
- Jiang Ji-li falls ill and is comforted by her family and An Yi
- Jiang Ji-li questions why her classmates would spread lies about her
- An Yi updates Jiang Ji-li on the school situation and the rise of Red Guards
- Red Guards become influential due to the support of the Central Committee
- Jiang Ji-li's school becomes chaotic due to the influence of the Red Guards and the Cultural Revolution
The Revolution in Ji-li's Neighborhood
- Ji-li is assigned to a group visiting her relative Jiang Xi-wen's house
- Jiang Xi-wen is criticized for her stylish appearance and her complaint to the school about students picking mulberry leaves
- Ji-li's classmate, Yin Lan-lan, leads a group to publicly shame Jiang Xi-wen
- Jiang Xi-wen is forced to post a da-zi-bao on her door and is humiliated
- Ji-li feels conflicted about the situation due to her family ties and political principles
- Jiang Xi-wen is visibly distressed during the public shaming
- Ji-li pretends to tie her shoelaces to avoid looking at Jiang Xi-wen during the confrontation
- On the way back to school, classmates joke and laugh at Jiang Xi-wen's humiliation
- Ji-li feels guilty and tries to shake off the influence of "evil stories" she read at Grandpa Hong's bookstall
- Someone writes a da-zi-bao about Ji-li, causing alarm in her apartment
- The story highlights the pressure and conflict faced by Ji-li due to her family ties and political principles during the Cultural Revolution
- The text sheds light on the public shaming and humiliation experienced by individuals who were perceived as bourgeois during the Cultural Revolution
The End of School and a New Directive
- The protagonist expresses gratitude to Teacher Gu for her support and inquires about An Yi's school assignment due to her illness
- The protagonist and An Yi graduate without a ceremony or party, and decide to buy new school supplies
- They purchase new schoolbags, lunchboxes, and stationary, feeling like they've reached a new status
- The girls learn of a rumor that the teachers' assignments have been canceled and decide to ask Teacher Gu
- Teacher Gu confirms the new directive that all students will be assigned to schools by their residential districts
- The girls are disappointed as their dreams of attending a better school are shattered
- They revisit the school, finding it empty and changed, with signs of revolutionary actions replacing previous decorations
- The library is closed for sorting during summer vacation, leaving the protagonist saddened at the loss of favorite books
- The protagonist hears the familiar sound of drums and gongs in the distance, indicating tension in the air
- The summer heat makes the protagonist unable to knit, and she works on embroidering a pillow sham as she waits for the evening
- The text conveys a sense of loss and disappointment as the protagonist grapples with the changes in the educational system
- The story sets the stage for the protagonist's continued struggle and resilience in the face of adversity
A Tale of Loss and Grief
- An Yi's grandmother, a short and skinny woman with bound feet, took care of her family, including An Yi, her mother, blind sister, and father, after her wealthy husband's death.
- An Yi's grandmother was known for giving treats and caring for the family, despite her own struggles.
- An Yi's grandmother committed suicide, and the protagonist attended her crematorium memorial service.
- The crematorium emitted black smoke, and the environment was described as oppressive and chilling.
- An Yi's family mourned silently, unable to play funeral music or wear mourning bands due to the stigma of suicide under Chairman Mao's regime.
- An Yi's grandmother had to carry An Yi during asthma attacks, and her own health deteriorated over time.
- The protagonist remembered a moment of kindness from An Yi's grandmother, fanning An Yi during a hot day.
- An Yi and her mother mourned bitterly at the crematorium, and were warned not to ally with a "bad class" due to the suicide.
- The protagonist's family received a visit from Dad's colleagues, Uncle Tian and Aunt Wu, who whispered about "the current situation" and prompted the children to leave.
- Dad instructed the children to go on a picnic with their Grandma, hinting at a possible need for Grandma to rest due to sickness.
- The family set off for the park in the cool morning, but the sun promised a hot day ahead.
- The text captures the emotional weight of loss and grief in the context of a challenging historical and social backdrop.
Uncle Fan's Detainment and Family's Reactions
- Uncle Fan arrives at the narrator's house with a swollen, bruised, and bloody face, looking like a "monster."
- The family reacts with shock and concern, hiding his bicycle and tending to his injuries in secret.
- The narrator reflects on Uncle Fan's former success and dignity in the entertainment industry.
- Uncle Fan's detaining traumatizes the family, leading to tension and fear.
- The family fears public exposure and punishment due to their association with Uncle Fan.
- The family grapples with the psychological pressure to confess to false accusations in order to receive leniency.
- Dad, a Party member, faces pressure to confess to unknown accusations and fears being publicly named.
- The family fears repercussions from their association with Uncle Fan, including being accused of establishing counterrevolutionary ties.
- The family remains loyal to Uncle Fan, refusing to betray him or disclose any information.
- The family struggles with the emotional and psychological toll of Uncle Fan's detainment, leading to fear, tension, and uncertainty.
- The text highlights the pervasive atmosphere of fear, suspicion, and pressure during the Cultural Revolution in China.
- The family is torn between loyalty to Uncle Fan and the fear of their own potential punishment, creating a sense of helplessness and unease.
The Struggle for Acceptance and Recognition
- The protagonist is in a class where students are chanting and waving their red books in praise of Chairman Mao.
- The protagonist is saved by a classmate who hands her a cover of the Precious Red Book, preventing her from getting into trouble.
- The protagonist is impressed by her classmate's quick thinking and problem-solving abilities.
- The Math teacher, Teacher Li, is described as a highly respected and dedicated educator who insists on using her own lecture notes with added quotations from Chairman Mao.
- The protagonist receives praise and admiration from her classmates for her academic achievements, which she finds reminiscent of her past self.
- The protagonist is asked to stay after class by Teacher Li, leading to anxiety and worry about her class status.
- It is revealed that the protagonist and another student are asked to join the propaganda group for the blackboard newspaper due to their beautiful handwriting.
- The protagonist feels conflicted and hesitant about joining the propaganda group, fearing the consequences of being in the spotlight.
- During winter vacation, the protagonist's parents are engaged in a serious conversation, and the protagonist is reading "Jane Eyre" while her siblings are asleep.
- The protagonist is interrupted by a soft knock on the door and a whispered call of "Lao Jiang," a name only used by her father's friends from the theater.
- The text conveys a sense of internal struggle and the protagonist's fear of being judged and treated unfairly due to her family background.
- The protagonist's reluctance to join the propaganda group and her anxiety about being in the spotlight reflects her internal conflict and desire for acceptance.
The Red Guard Committee's Decision and Chang Hong's Concern
- Chairman Jin informs Jiang Ji-li that Fang Fang will replace her due to her political situation
- Jiang Ji-li feels ashamed and runs away from the hall
- Bai Shan returns a dictionary to Jiang Ji-li, which she leaves behind in the exhibition booth
- Jiang Ji-li meets with Chang Hong at the Red Guard Committee office
- Chang Hong insists on discussing Jiang Ji-li's request to do summer labor in the city instead of the countryside
- Chang Hong emphasizes the importance of Jiang Ji-li's political life and the influence of her family's class background
- Chang Hong urges Jiang Ji-li to go to the countryside for summer labor to follow Chairman Mao's revolutionary line
- Jiang Ji-li agrees to go to the countryside, wanting to prove herself and not disappoint Chang Hong
- The setting of the Red Guard Committee office is described, filled with red slogans, posters, armbands, and flags
- Chang Hong expresses concern for Jiang Ji-li's family situation and the impact on her political life
- Jiang Ji-li reflects on Chang Hong's sincerity and desire to help her
- Jiang Ji-li decides to go to the countryside, determined to prove herself and follow Chairman Mao's revolutionary line
The Struggle for Survival
- The protagonist, Jiang Ji-li, works in a rural area, experiencing physical and mental hardships.
- Ji-li is determined to face the challenges of work despite feeling sick and struggling with fever.
- She works tirelessly in the scorching heat, enduring pain and exhaustion.
- Ji-li's thoughts wander to distractions like popsicles and cool things to cope with the grueling work.
- Despite feeling unwell, she pushes herself to work, reciting Chairman Mao's quotation for motivation.
- Ji-li eventually faints at work due to her physical condition.
- She experiences a vivid and distressing dream before regaining consciousness.
- After fainting, Ji-li finds solace in the stillness of an empty storage room.
- Ji-li's friend, Chang Hong, visits her and informs her about being called back to Shanghai for study sessions with her father's theater.
- Ji-li initially refuses to leave, but eventually relents and returns home, feeling a mix of relief and worry.
- Uncle Tian visits Ji-li's home and discusses revising a mysterious letter with her mother.
- Ji-li, curious about the papers left by her mother, ponders their significance before eventually falling asleep.
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