Since ancient times, the image of Liangshan heroes has been an important theme in Chinese literature, and their heroic deeds and deep friendship are also deeply loved. However, one of the seemingly loyal heroes is actually a "court spy". Although this character has always appeared in the story as the embodiment of justice, his true identity remains a mystery. Surprisingly, Shi Nai'an had already revealed this secret when he chose the name.
This role is what we know as "Hu Yanzhuo". In Shi Nai'an's Water Margin, Hu Yanzhuo is described as one of the Five Tiger Generals of Liangshan, fighting alongside Lin Chong, Lu Zhishen, and others against the corrupt imperial court. However, this character is actually a spy in the imperial court. He was sent to Liangshan in order to find out Song Jiang's weaknesses so that he could attack him in the future.
The name of Hu Yanzhuo's character actually hints at his true identity. "Huyan" is his surname, and "Zhuo" means "fire" in Chinese. Combining these two words, "Hu Yanzhuo" can be interpreted as "burning fire", suggesting the contradictions and conflicts in his heart. On the one hand, he was loyal to the imperial court, and on the other hand, he established a deep friendship with the heroes of Liangshan. This inner conflict keeps him in a complex role in the story.
By choosing the name Hu Yanzhuo, Shi Nai'an subtly hints at the dual identity of this character. It also makes the story more engaging, making people think and guess as they read. This deep meaning and ingenious conception are what make Shi Nai'an unique as a great writer.
Overall, the character of Hu Yanzhuo is a very interesting and complex existence in "Water Margin". Although his true identity is a mystery, through Shi Nai'an's ingenious name, we can get a glimpse of the mystery. This also proves once again that Shi Nai'an is a great writer with superb skills and profound literary skills.