讀後心得

Image source: Getty Images. This year marks the eightieth anniversary of the end of World War II. Looking back at history, reading is a good way to reflect. The author mentions Hu Lancheng, whose commentary transcends leaders and military figures, delving into literature and freedom of speech. As early as 1939, Hu Lancheng defended Wang Jingwei, asserting that surrender and peace-seeking were also expressions of free speech; this echoes current discussions on freedom of speech. Furthermore, he predicted the changes brought about by World War II and the international landscape, believing that wars were a means of redistributing international power. He also criticized the unpredictability of Communist Party politics, demonstrating his profound insights into the political climate of his time. Hu Lancheng’s writing is elegant, and his perspectives are unique; even though he was an aide to the Wang government, his descriptions of culture and rites still merit contemplation. This article revisits his thoughts, reminding us to maintain clear thinking amidst changes.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. In 2025, the world again faces a restless situation, with the shadow of war gradually expanding in the corners of history. If one wishes to review the history of World War II, reading is a good choice. The first person that comes to my mind is 胡蘭成, whose works not only focus on the slogans of leaders and military figures but also convey the profound insights expressed by intellectuals who did not participate in the fighting.

When mentioning 胡蘭成, many people in Taiwan may know him as the "traitor" boyfriend of 張愛玲, and literary enthusiasts recognize him as the spiritual mentor of the 三三 literary group. However, few are familiar with his selection of political essays. In an era of collision between Eastern and Western cultures, many of his arguments can be considered original in the Chinese-speaking world. Here are a few noteworthy viewpoints:

• First, he defended 汪精衛 based on the principle of freedom of speech, arguing that "democracy lies in freedom of speech; those who speak of war before conflict are guilty, and those who speak of peace before reconciliation are also guilty; this is all pathological." (1939) The background of this statement was during the early stages of the Sino-Japanese War when 汪精衛 sent a telegram to Japan seeking peace. 胡蘭成, as his aide, stepped forward to support this viewpoint, arguing that the advocacy of reconciliation is also a part of freedom. Similar viewpoints resonate in today's society.

• Secondly, 胡蘭成 pointed out that the essence of World War II was a global redistribution of colonies. He foresaw American hegemony and the rise of the Soviet Union, a point that remains astonishing to this day. Seventy-six scholars mentioned in their analysis of the Ukraine war that "this war was actually avoidable, but due to considerations of interests, it has been prolonged." This illustrates the importance of the international order to peace, and the views of 胡蘭成 align surprisingly with those of the scholars.

• Third, 胡蘭成 portrayed the beauty of Chinese culture, respecting the past without being antiquarian, advocating for traditional sentiments to bloom in modern society. He also offered sharp criticism of the Communist Party, believing its stance to be inconsistent and failing to provide real solutions.

• Finally, 胡蘭成 wrote in early 1945, "This war not only fails to solve problems but also makes the end of the war even more difficult." His observations provoke reflection, as in war, the true purpose is often obscured, making it challenging to define the meaning of continuing the fight.

Since then, 胡蘭成 has become a prominent figure in Taiwanese culture. Whether in agreement or opposition, one cannot deny the profound impact of his thoughts and the value they hold.