WOC 107 Reading Suzhou through Literature and History

THE THREAD OF A TRADITION Anonymous student 2023 Spring Tiger embroidery. Photo by the author.   I’ve always disliked history classes; a theme shared among all historical societies is the eventual loss of cultural uniqueness. It always reminded me of the unpleasant reality of this phenomenon unfolding before me. The traditions and customs that my family once cherished were fading...

HER SACHET By Wenke Liu 2023 Spring Jade Sachet. Photo by the author.   “My lord, may I ask what pattern you want to be engraved on the jade sachet?” Said an old craftsman, with a distinct Suzhou accent. On his palm lay a piece of warm suet jade, which had been carved into the shape of a sachet. This...

IN THE CAGE By Yunfei Lyu 2023 Spring Xiang Kailin 向凯麟, Bird Cage Made of Red Sandalwood and Boxwood. 1960s. Photo by the author.   “What a masterpiece! Delicate and elegant.” This is the first sentence I heard as I was born. I am a birdcage. Made from red sandalwood, my temple-like body is reddish-brown. My edge was decorated with...