Lychees of Chang'an
The Lychee of Chang'an, or The Lychee in Chang'an is a historical novel written by Chinese author Ma Boyong and first published in the "Spring 2021" edition of the literary journal Harvest, in the long-form novel section. The full text consists of 70,000 words and was completed in 11 days. The novel has since been adapted into a film and a television series.
Plot summary
Set during the Tianbao era of the Tang dynasty, the story follows Li Shande, a minor official in Shanglin Park, Chang'an. He is tasked with delivering fresh lychees from Lingnan to Chang'an in time for Yang Guifei's birthday. Faced with the challenge of the fruit's perishability and the difficulties of transportation, Li decides to take a gamble for the sake of his family. During the mission, he experiences both hardships and joy, while uncovering the crises of governance hidden beneath the grandeur of the Tang dynasty's golden age.Characters
Sources:Li Shande
A minor official at Shanglin Park, he unexpectedly receives the task of delivering fresh lychees. For the sake of his family, he resolutely decides to take on the mission.
Liu Shuling
The magistrate of Shanglin Park, he is Li Shande's superior.
Han Cheng
Also known as Han Shishi, he serves as a principal officer in the Bibu Division of the Ministry of Justice. He is Li Shande's good friend.
Du Fu
A poet and Li Shande's good friend
He Luguang
The military commissioner of Lingnan who, fearing the emperor's distrust, schemes to frame Li Shande.
Zhao Xinning
He Luguang's subordinate
Su Liang
A Persian businessman who helps Li Shande transport the lychees
Tong
A girl who grows lychees
Lin Yinu
Originally He Liguang's servant, he is later moved by Li Shande's kindness and helps him avoid He Liguang's pursuit.
Yu Chaoen
A eunuch who initially intends to steal Li Shande's research to gain fame and fortune for himself, he has to abandon the plan after Yang Guozhong intervenes.
Yang Guozhong
Also known as Weiguo Gong and the Right Chancellor, he opens a channel to facilitate the delivery of lychees for Li Shande.
Gao Lishi
A eunuch formerly known as Feng Yuanyi, he recommends Lingnan lychees to the emperor and exempts Li Shande from crime.
Mrs. Li
Li Shande's wife