Raise the Red Lantern: Three Novellas

Rating:
Summary: A rich commentary on patriarchy in pre-49 China
Review: I have never read this translation, so I cannot speak to its quality, but the original Chinese novella "Wives and Concubines" is absolutely marvelous. As one reviewer here noted, it is quite different than Zhang Yimou's film. To me, the most noticeable difference was that the sexual candidness of Su Tong's narrative was (likely forcibly) replaced by Zhang with the foot massage motif, which is sometimes a little silly. The protagonist's sexual repression/obsession is much more understandable if you read the novella. The movie is still watchable--actually, more so--after the book, because the film was forced to avoid direct discussion of certain issues via mainland censors who find it distasteful (or too close to home?). Anyway, the Chinese version is rich with south-central Chinese stylistic grandeur, and absolutely salivating. You will find Su Tong's understanding of patriarchy much more interesting and nuanced than Zhang's. Su Tong is definitely the primus inter pares of the 80s generation.

Rating:
Summary: red lanterns? okay. . .
Review: like many people who have read this book, i was first introduced to it through the movie, and although i enjoyed both reading the book and watching the movie, the book in my opinion is much superior. the movie leans away from the novella greatly. one major difference there are not even red lanterns in the novella which are a major part of the movie. also the main characters's personality is delved into more as well as that as the master's son. read this book it is great

Rating:
Summary: Excellent book that became an excellent movie.
Review: My first encounter with this story was through the movie based on the longest novella. Finding it a very good watch, I decided to search for the book. I really enjoyed the novellas, though they may have been a bit depressing at points. The stories seemed very realistic and kept my attention. I'd definitely recommend Su Tong's books.

Rating:
Summary: Excellent book that became an excellent movie.
Review: Su Tong leaves you grasping for hope. These three novellas, general enough for an American to grasp yet specific to the Chinese milieu, probe the underside of human nature. With emphasis on class, the people's revolution, and the organic nature of life, the author confronts the bestial facets of living in the underclass.