Red Sorghum by Yan Mo

Description

“Red Sorghum” is a novel written by Mo Yan, a prominent Chinese author. The book was originally published in 1986 and later translated into English by Howard Goldblatt. “Red Sorghum” is one of Mo Yan’s most well-known works and helped establish his reputation as a writer.

Set in China’s rural Shandong province during the 1930s and 1940s, “Red Sorghum” tells the story of three generations of a family against the backdrop of war and social upheaval. The novel explores themes of love, sacrifice, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of the Chinese people.

The narrative centers around the protagonist, a young woman named Jiu’er, who becomes a strong and determined figure in the face of adversity. The red sorghum fields, which hold cultural significance and serve as a symbol of resilience, are central to the story.

“Red Sorghum” combines elements of historical fiction, magical realism, and folklore to create a rich and captivating narrative. Mo Yan’s lyrical writing style and vivid descriptions bring the characters and settings to life.

The novel was adapted into a critically acclaimed film in 1987, directed by Zhang Yimou. It received international recognition and further popularized Mo Yan’s work.