My Life in China and America · Chapter
Taking First Steps in Life explained
Yung Wing, after returning to China, seeks to advance his grand scheme of modernization by gaining access to influential officials.
What happens
Yung Wing, after returning to China, seeks to advance his grand scheme of modernization by gaining access to influential officials. He tries various positions—private secretary to Commissioner Parker, law student in Hong Kong, and a post in the Customs Service—but none provide the platform he needs. In 1860, he accepts a traveling agent role for a silk and tea house, which proves profitable. In 1862, an astronomer introduces him to Viceroy Tsang Kwoh Fan, leading to a pivotal meeting where the Viceroy's progressive views impress Wing.
Themes in this chapter
Modernization vs. Tradition
Yung Wing's efforts to introduce Western ideas and reforms clash with traditional Chinese structures, as seen in his attempts to find a platform.
The West as Model and Mentor
Yung Wing's Western education and his desire to apply Western knowledge to China's needs reflect the theme of looking to the West for guidance.
Political Reform and Revolution
Yung Wing's grand scheme aims at political reform, and his meeting with Tsang Kwoh Fan highlights the potential for progressive change within the government.
Characters to notice
- Yung Wing
Seeks to implement his grand scheme by seeking influential positions; meets Viceroy Tsang Kwoh Fan.
- Viceroy Tsang Kwoh Fan
Viceroy of Kiang Su and Kiang Nan, generalissimo of Imperial forces; impressed by Yung Wing's history and views.
- Dr. Parker
Commissioner of the United States to China; Yung Wing briefly serves as his private secretary.
Key passages
“He felt the occasion to be a critical one, and when ushered into the great man’s presence found it difficult to retain his composure.”
Yung Wing was nervous and struggled to stay calm when meeting the Viceroy.
Highlights the gravity of the meeting and Wing's anxiety.
“For, behold, here was a man such as he had not supposed existed in that country—a man reared in China, and not a young man either—who had light in his head; who recognized the causes of many of the disadvantages China was contending with in taking her place among the family of nations; a man of marvellously liberal and progressive sentiments.”
Yung Wing was astonished to find a Chinese official with progressive and liberal views, unlike anyone he expected.
Shows Wing's surprise and admiration for Tsang Kwoh Fan's forward-thinking.