Making an argument (Luxun, 1925):
I dreamed that I was preparing a composition in the lecture hall of the elementary school, asking the teacher for advice on how to make an argument.
"Very hard!" The teacher shot me a look, askance from the edge of his glasses. "Here's a story for you—"
"A family gave birth to a boy, and the family was extremely happy. When the full moon came, they took him out and showed him to the guests. Presumably to get some auspicious tidings.
"One said: ‘This child will grow up to be rich.’ So he got a lot of thanks.
"One said: ‘This child will grow up to be a government official.’ So he obtained a few compliments.
"One said: ‘This child will grow up to die.’ So he was beaten up by everyone else.
"Death is certain, while saying he is certainly going to be rich and noble are hopeful lies. But those who lie are paid well, and those who talk of certainties are beaten. You see..."
"I am willing to neither lie nor to be beaten. So, teacher, what should I say?"
"Then, you have to say: ‘Ahhhhh! This kid! You see! So... Ah! Haha! Hehe! he, hehehehe!’"
July 8, 1925.
