Vernacular Jin Ping Mei.

Summary

The poem narrates the life of Miao Tian Xiu, a wealthy gentleman in Guangling, who, despite his affluence, faces a dark omen from a monk predicting disaster if he travels. Ignoring his wife’s warnings, he embarks on a journey to Tokyo, only to be betrayed by his servant Miao Qing, who conspires with two pirates to murder him and steal his wealth. An Tong, another servant, survives and is rescued by a fisherman. When they cross paths with the thieves later, An Tong reports them, leading to their arrest. Miao Qing attempts to evade justice but eventually faces consequences for his betrayal. The tale serves as a grim reminder of fate and betrayal.

Full content