My Pleasant and Tranquil Days

Life is only hard when you stand up

Echoing Lu Xun’s portrayal of useless scholars, Yang Zhengguang’s psychodrama satirises the chauvinist who believes he is above it all. It critiques the pressure to achieve while 'laying flat’ to unrealistic expectations and offers an insight into the delusions we cling to in justifying our tedious daily routines.

I’ve always believed in being more of an observer. Why struggle when what will be will be? Some might call it ‘giving up’, but my philosophy has ensured a life without incident.

There’s no use despairing over my hometown being knocked down, or that a murder occurred on our street. Getting involved would only cause trouble. Though now it seems Ma Li wishes to divorce. She’ll see sense eventually – it certainly isn't my fault…

Yang Zhengguang’s psychodrama scrutinises a self-proclaimed scholar’s inner world, satirising the delusions we maintain in order to justify continuing in the tedious routine of daily life.