In Yixing at the beginning of the 20th century, China was in the midst of a period of drastic social change and cultural awakening. This is an era in which tradition and modernity are intertwined, and the shackles of old rituals and religions collide with the impact of new ideas. In such a context, the Jiang family, a prominent family with a profound cultural heritage and a long history, has become the epitome of social change. Yixing, the place where this story takes place, with its unique geographical and cultural environment, has given birth to complex character relationships and rich social life, painting a delicate social picture for us.
In Yixing in winter, it was colder than usual, and the wind and snow were speeding through like knives, and Xu Beihong, a young teacher who taught painting classes at the Women's Normal School, had the honor to visit Nan Shenggong, the eldest son of the Jiang family, today. The Jiang family's mansion, a landmark building in the south of the city, has attracted countless eyes with its majestic gatehouse and huge family history.
Xu Beihong wrapped his clothes tightly, walked quickly through Shuofeng, and came to the gate of the Jiang family. When he looked at this mansion up close for the first time, he couldn't help but feel a little lost in his heart, and the splendor on the surface was a little different from what he imagined the first mansion in Yixing. But when the door slowly opened, a warm current with the scent of rosin came to his face, and his surprise escalated.
The interior decoration of the Jiang family is extremely luxurious, with intricately carved murals, rare antiques and elegant garden design, all showing the family's wealth and taste. Xu Beihong was deeply attracted by this layout that was different from the inside and outside, and his mind gradually became complicated.
In the reception hall, Nan Shenggong warmly entertained Xu Beihong, and the two sat around to drink tea, and there was no lack of discussion on the art of calligraphy and painting in the conversation. Suddenly, a woman in a moon-white dress hurriedly passed by, and her appearance was like a bright color, which attracted Xu Beihong's attention. Nan Sheng Gong introduced her as his niece, Jiang Biwei, a typical lady, but with a bit of naughtiness.
As the sun set, Xu Beihong said goodbye to the Jiang family, but he left Jiang Biwei's faint figure in his heart. On the way back, he had a lot of thoughts, and his impression of the Jiang family also changed subtly.
Soon after, Xu Beihong visited Jiang's house again and had more contact with Biwei. He discovered that this seemingly delicate young lady actually had extraordinary talent and tenacity hidden in her bones, which made him have a deep respect for her. In the discussion of art and literature, the two gradually cultivated a deep friendship, and even secretly fell in love.
The good times did not last long, the Jiang family suddenly changed, Biwei's mother fell ill and died, and there was a fierce struggle within the family over the inheritance issue. Under the pressure of her family, Biwei felt lonely and helpless like never before. After Xu Beihong learned of the situation, he frequently visited Jiang's family and tried his best to comfort and support her.
In this process, Biwei's mentality has changed dramatically. She began to reflect on her life and gradually, her relationship with Xu Beihong became deeper. The constraints of her family make it difficult for her to be independent, and she decides to take an extreme way to get out of this predicament, and pretends to commit suicide.
After the Jiang family learned of Biwei's death, the whole family was grief-stricken, and Xu Beihong also felt that the sky was falling apart. A few months later, an unexpected news shocked everyone, Biwei was actually alive, and her "death" was just a well-planned escape plan. She sent a letter from afar, in which she expressed her longing for her mother and her deep love for Xu Beihong, and explained why she chose to leave in this way.
After Xu Beihong received the letter, he had mixed feelings. He understands Biwei's helplessness and courage, but also worries about her safety and future. After much deliberation, he decided to leave Yixing and go in search of Biwei. By chance, he finds her in a small town. The reunion between the two is filled with tears and laughter, and they decide to start a new life together, away from family strife and the shackles of the world.
Jiang Biwei's story is not only a personal journey of ups and downs, but also a profound reflection on the conflict between traditional constraints and individual freedom. Between the shackles of the old society and the awakening of new ideas, she chose an extreme and courageous path. This not only reflects the struggle of individuals in social change, but also reflects the difficult path of women's self-awakening in that era. The love between Xu Beihong and Biwei is a kind of pursuit of freedom and truth, and their story makes us realize that true freedom comes from inner liberation and love of life.