By exhaustively analyzing Lao She's literary writings, Vohra traces the development of his political consciousness and convictions. Answers are sought for crucial questions: Why did Lao She drift to a leftist position? Why did he return voluntarily to China? Why did he become disenchanted with the authoritarian regime? And why did he commit suicide?

Besides being an introduction to the life and works of Lao She, this book contributes to a greater understanding of the nature of the social and political change in twentieth-century China.

Ranbir Vohra is Charles A. Dana Professor Emeritus of Political Science at Trinity College. He is the author of several books including China's Path to Modernization, China: the Search for Democracy and Social Justice, and The Making of India.