An eye on history

Not straightforward annals

Kai Ba Lidai Shiji is a chronological narration based on major events, such as the appointments and successions of governors and captains. But the author of Kai Ba Lidai Shiji heeds the words of Confucius, who said that historical accounts should adopt the techniques of Chun Qiu (the technique of portraying the character), showing the author's tastes and attitudes in the natural flow of events. The author of Kai Ba Lidai Shiji describes characters and emotions in a brief and vivid manner. Portraits are not rigid and stylized, and the characters are richer and more vivid than can be found in most historical records of the times. Some figures here, like Su Minggang, Guo Jun, wife of Yan Erguan, a coffin bearer, are very memorable.

And the author did not, or made little effort to conceal his true impressions. He gives a straightforward account of people and events without much reservation. For example, a jiada (leader of the Chinese) who was unable to write is treated with contempt by the author, a cultured man. Another jiada, who came into office in a ceremony with much fanfare, but died after a year, is mocked by the author who says it as the working of karma. A boedelmeester (or curator of wills, the title for a Chinese in charge of an orphanage) is even cursed by the author who calls for him to be "sonless" for not showing the generosity expected of his position. This "local gazetteer" thus has an unfamiliar and charming sincerity.