Kai Lung’s Golden Hours · Chapter
Not Concerned with Any Particular Attribute of Those Who Are Involved explained
Kai Lung meets Hwa-mei at the shutter, where she updates him on the shifting political situation: Ming-shu is away on a mission, but Shan Tien has become dangerously superstitious after interpreting a story's omen.
What happens
Kai Lung meets Hwa-mei at the shutter, where she updates him on the shifting political situation: Ming-shu is away on a mission, but Shan Tien has become dangerously superstitious after interpreting a story's omen. Hwa-mei warns that Shan Tien will summon Kai Lung to advise on the essential virtue of a burial robe. Kai Lung is indeed summoned, and in the Mandarin's presence tells the story of Wang Ho and the Burial Robe, a tale about a fortune-teller, a disputed robe, and the unexpected consequences of greed and compromise.
Themes in this chapter
Wisdom and Cunning
Kai Lung uses his storytelling wisdom to navigate the dangerous situation, while the tale of Wang Ho illustrates cunning in business and negotiation.
Fate and Destiny
Shan Tien's superstitious interpretation of omens and the belief in the efficacy of burial robes highlight themes of fate and predestination.
Social Class and Hierarchy
The story of Wang Ho and the dealings between Shen Heng and Cheng Lin reveal the dynamics of merchant class, officialdom, and social climbing.
Characters to notice
- Kai Lung
Meets Hwa-mei at the shutter, learns of Ming-shu's absence and Shan Tien's superstitious turn, then is summoned to tell the story of Wang Ho.
- Hwa-mei
Warns Kai Lung about Shan Tien's credulity and the upcoming consultation about the burial robe; she is anxious but devoted.
- Shan Tien
Summons Kai Lung to advise on the virtue of a burial robe; he is superstitious and has accepted the Luminous Insect as an omen.
- Li-loe
Reluctantly brings Kai Lung the summons from Shan Tien, feigning concern and hinting at hidden wine.
- Ming-shu
Is away on a secret mission to Hing-poo, temporarily out of the immediate plot.
Key passages
“Seven marble tombstones are lifted from off my chest!”
A great weight of anxiety has been removed from me.
Kai Lung expresses relief upon seeing Hwa-mei safe.
“He who believes in gambling will live to sell his sandals.”
A person who trusts in luck will end up destitute.
Kai Lung reflects on the proverb that Shan Tien should have heeded.
“Sooner or later it will certainly devolve upon this person to condemn you to a violent end.”
Eventually I will have to sentence you to death.
Shan Tien speaks ominously to Kai Lung, though not immediately threatening.