Unfortunately I stopped reading Wolf Hall on my way to the middle parts of the book. Probably I had so many things in mind and was utterly distracted at the start of the month that the book is really not connecting with me. My eyes are landing in words page per page, but I'm not feeling it. I don't even remember parts. So I abandoned it for a while and switched to something else.
Finally I was able to finish Empress Orchid's story in the sequel The Last Empress by Anchee Min. Unlike the first book, the sequel had more political plots, maneuverings and courtly tragedies. The empress had matured and became stronger for her nation. It wasn't an easy ride, that's for sure and she did things, in my eyes, needed to be done. I could remember how her image was painted across China while I was on a tour there two years ago. She is strong and powerful, that's for sure. But she is also depicted as ruthless and power hungry. I was interested in women who lead nations and even a ruthless one at that. China is no small country and it takes extreme brain power, cunning and force to rule it. But in this story, one would get to see Empress Cixi's other side. The possible side that may not be visible to the public or court. In the story, she had to be ruthless. She had to be practical and she had to play in order for her country and clan survive. I do admire that in her. And I understood, even if this version is just fiction.
Finally I was able to finish Empress Orchid's story in the sequel The Last Empress by Anchee Min. Unlike the first book, the sequel had more political plots, maneuverings and courtly tragedies. The empress had matured and became stronger for her nation. It wasn't an easy ride, that's for sure and she did things, in my eyes, needed to be done. I could remember how her image was painted across China while I was on a tour there two years ago. She is strong and powerful, that's for sure. But she is also depicted as ruthless and power hungry. I was interested in women who lead nations and even a ruthless one at that. China is no small country and it takes extreme brain power, cunning and force to rule it. But in this story, one would get to see Empress Cixi's other side. The possible side that may not be visible to the public or court. In the story, she had to be ruthless. She had to be practical and she had to play in order for her country and clan survive. I do admire that in her. And I understood, even if this version is just fiction.
First book to finish this year. A thousand more to go. I just bought on-sale books from Rockwell 2 weekends ago. I even haven't covered it. These times are hard. Titles are piling up and my shelf project had not been finalized. All in due time, there are just some things that are more pressing right now.
Wolf Hall, I will get back to you soon.
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