Gao Lian (dramatist)

Gao Lian , courtesy name Ruinan , was Chinese writer, dramatist and encyclopedist born in Hangzhou. He is perhaps best remembered for his play ''Yuzanji'' , a romantic drama about a young impoverished scholar and a Daoist nun. The piece remains a classic of the Ming period theater in thirty-three scenes, some of which are still performed today.

Professionally, Gao remained largely outside of official circles and is an example of a ''Buyi Wenren'' or commoner literatus, many examples of whom lived in the 17th century. His writing suggests that he was a resident of Hangzhou and its celebrated West Lake with his area details. Gao’s encyclopedia, ''Zunsheng Bajian'' , was first published in 1591 and reprinted at least twice more before 1620. Specifically, the eight discourses are as follows:

1. On sublime theories of pure self-cultivation

2. On being I harmony with the four seasons

3. On comport on rising and resting

4. On extending life and avoiding disease

5. On food and drink

6. On pure enjoyment of cultured idleness

7. On numinous and arcane elixirs and medicines

8. On remote wanderings beyond the mundane


''Eight Treatises'' has a distinctly modern ring with its espousal of stress avoidance as a key to overall physical health. In his discussion of mental illness , successfully diagnosed the condition now known as Bipolar Disorder. Interestingly Gao advised his readers to avoid abortion and show concern for the elderly and physically weak. He suggested we attach ourselves to a major religious system or our inner emptiness will invite some manner of physical disease. Overall, his works comprise a virtual treasure trove for early 17th century aesthetics and material culture such as garden architecture, tea culture and dwarf trees. The above items were additional examples of his overall aim at the maintenance of bodily health through a quiet enjoyment of human life.