讀後心得

This year marks the eightieth anniversary of the end of World War II, and the war has once again become a hot topic beyond history textbooks. Looking back at World War II, reading is a good way to gain insights. The author mentions Hu Lancheng, a figure who, aside from being a leader and military person, had many intellectual views on the war, and his political works remain inspiring today. In 1939, he defended Wang Jingwei's freedom of speech, emphasizing that the pursuit of peace is also an expression of free speech. This idea resonates with the current discussions on free speech among 76 scholars. Hu Lancheng also analyzed the international situation during World War II and predicted that the United States would emerge as the victor—an insight that still provokes thought today. On another front, his critique of the Communist Party at that time was equally sharp, although he could not foresee the later changes in the Party. The author praises Hu Lancheng's insight and eloquence, believing that he demonstrated greater tolerance in expression and reminds us to cherish our freedom of speech.

This year marks the eightieth anniversary of the end of World War II, and 2025 is poised to be a year of global turmoil, with the shadows of war spreading once again from the pages of history textbooks. Reflecting on the history of World War II can lead to profound insights through reading. Many people will first think of Hu Lancheng, as war is not only the slogan of leaders and military figures but also the voice of many intellectuals who were not on the battlefield.

When mentioning Hu Lancheng, many people in Taiwan are aware of his relationship with Zhang Ailing, and literature enthusiasts may know that he was the spiritual mentor of the San San Literary Group. However, his political commentary works are seldom explored. In an era of blending Eastern and Western cultures, many of his views are quite original within the Chinese-speaking world. Here are a few examples for friends to consider:

• Defending Wang Jingwei with Free Speech: In 1939, Hu Lancheng commented on the incident of Kuomintang Vice Chairman Wang Jingwei expressing goodwill towards Japan, arguing that surrender and seeking peace is also a form of free speech. In comparison, the current discussions on free speech by 76 scholars seem to reflect similar concerns, particularly regarding the recent revocation of a Taiwanese residency permit for a mainland influencer advocating for unification. They believe this undermines free speech and that Taiwan's democratic rule of law is under threat.
• Profound Insights into International Politics: In 1938, Hu Lancheng pointed out that World War II was a war for the redivision of the world's colonies, foreseeing the rise of America's hegemony and the Soviet Union. This perspective resonates with the evaluations of the Ukraine war by the 76 scholars, who view the current conflict as a victim of great power rivalry, further reflecting the complexity of today's international situation.
• Reflections on Chinese Culture: Hu Lancheng proposed a forward-looking cultural perspective, hoping to merge traditional virtues with modern society, emphasizing respect for tradition while not being bound by the past. His critiques of the Communist Party's strategies at the time were also quite realistic, pointing out the contradictions and instability in their positions.
• Reflections on the Current Situation: On the eve of the Allies' victory in 1945, he stated that this war could not solve problems, only lead to prolonged conflict. He encouraged people to think about the persistence of war and pointed out the close relationship between changes in the international landscape and people's lives.

Hu Lancheng's thoughts remain thought-provoking today, and these viewpoints hold significant implications for contemporary readers. Whether regarding the pursuit of peace or the exploration of literature and culture, his words are worthy of our in-depth exploration and reflection.