歸蓮夢

''歸蓮夢'' by active 18th century Su'anzhuren is a novel written in the late 18th century. The story seems to revolve around themes of poverty, compassion, and the complexities of human nature, following the lives of characters impacted by fate and their moral choices. The opening chapters introduce a couple, the Baishuang family, known for their good nature but also their extreme frugality, who desire a child and turn to spiritual means to achieve their goal. The beginning of the novel sets the stage by exploring philosophical reflections about life and dreams while establishing the protagonist, Bai Shuang, and his wife, who, after years of hard work without children, seek the blessings of the mountain gods. Their journey takes a mystical turn as Bai Shuang dreams of a celestial being who offers them a lotus flower, symbolizing hope and the possibility of parenthood. However, their frugality ultimately leads to tragic consequences as they perish in a famine, leaving their daughter, Lian An, to fend for herself, highlighting the conflict between human desires, spiritual pursuits, and harsh realities.