Chinese Journal of Literary Criticism

No.2, 2025 

Issues Related to Wan Ying and Her Characterization: Reading Zhang Chu’s Novel Yunluo

(Abstract)

Liu Weidong

Wan Ying, the protagonist of Yunluo, is an unconventional woman and the central figure of the novel. At the same time, she holds the key to understanding Zhang Chu’s work. Her unconventionality lies in the sense of security she provides to others. Wan Ying’s image carries hints of the “earth mother” figure often found in literary history. Her endurance of hardship and absence of resentment represent Zhang Chu’s response to contemporary literature, which frequently explores the lives of the disadvantaged. Wan Ying’s presence and Zhang Chu’s narrative choices offer a refined perspective on the world—one that maintains a balanced connection with reality.