Zhong Lihe Former Residence Introduction
Zhong Lihe was born in 1915 in Guangxing Village, Gaoshu Township, Pingtung County. He received traditional Chinese education from a young age and gradually embarked on a literary path. His works profoundly depict the dignity and living conditions of ordinary people, making him one of the most influential Hakka writers in the history of Taiwanese literature. The former residence of Zhong Lihe is where he lived until the age of eighteen, featuring a traditional Sanheyuan layout, a style of architecture owned only by wealthy families at that time. Entering Zhong Lihe's former residence, one can reflect on his love and passion for humanity through the bricks, tiles, and furnishings inside. After the birth of his eldest son, Zhong began his writing and translation work, and his pieces often reveal his deep insights into the dignity and living conditions of the common folk, such as "The Sadness of Sweet Potatoes," "Mountain Fire," "Bamboo Head Village," "In-laws and Mountain Songs," "Uncle Ah Huang," "Ah Yuan," "On the Grass Slope," and "The Old Woodcutter." His works have received numerous awards, including the Second Prize in the Long Novel category of the Chinese Literature Prize for "Lishan Farm" and the Merit Award from Hong Kong's Asian Monthly for "The Tobacco Barn." His contributions to literature have earned him the title of "Father of Modern Taiwanese Literature." The formerly dilapidated Zhong Lihe's residence has been restored and largely regained its original appearance, with its front courtyard surrounded by a red brick wall, and the roof featuring a swept-wing design. A hundred-year-old osmanthus tree is planted in the yard, releasing its fragrant flowers during the blooming season. A notable feature is the water storage pool in front of the house, which was vital during the impoverished living conditions of that time, as villagers, young and old, would come here to collect water on supply days, highlighting the importance of this water source.
