Meaning: The quote "It's taken us 10 years, and it was constant excitement. I was constantly shocked by how evil he could be. Mao was very, very shrewd but he didn't have human feeling." by Jung Chang, a Chinese-born British writer, offers a glimpse into the complex and often contentious nature of Mao Zedong, the founding father of the People's Republic of China. This quote reflects Chang's personal experience and observation of Mao's character and leadership during a tumultuous period in Chinese history. To fully understand the significance of this quote, it is important to delve into the historical context and the impact of Mao's rule on China and its people.

Mao Zedong was a central figure in the Chinese Communist Party and played a pivotal role in shaping the course of Chinese history. His leadership, marked by revolutionary zeal and authoritarianism, brought about significant social, economic, and political changes in China. However, it also led to widespread suffering, upheaval, and human rights abuses. Chang's quote encapsulates the complexity of Mao's character, highlighting the juxtaposition of his shrewdness and lack of empathy.

The statement "It's taken us 10 years, and it was constant excitement" suggests a prolonged period of intense engagement or struggle, indicating the enduring impact of Mao's rule. Chang's use of "constant excitement" may allude to the turbulent and unpredictable nature of living under Mao's regime, where rapid and far-reaching changes were a constant feature of daily life. This period of upheaval, often referred to as the Cultural Revolution, was characterized by widespread social and political chaos, as Mao sought to purge perceived enemies and enforce ideological conformity.

Chang's revelation that she was "constantly shocked by how evil he could be" speaks to the deeply unsettling and disturbing aspects of Mao's leadership. It reflects the profound disillusionment experienced by many who initially supported Mao's vision of a more just and equitable society, only to witness the brutal and ruthless measures employed by the regime to maintain control. The acknowledgment of Mao's capacity for evil underscores the profound impact of his rule on individuals and society as a whole.

The phrase "Mao was very, very shrewd but he didn't have human feeling" offers insight into the duality of Mao's character. While he demonstrated exceptional political acumen and strategic cunning in consolidating power and advancing the communist agenda, there was a conspicuous absence of empathy or compassion in his leadership style. This lack of human feeling points to Mao's willingness to prioritize ideological purity and regime stability over the well-being and dignity of the Chinese people, leading to widespread suffering and hardship.

In conclusion, Jung Chang's quote provides a thought-provoking glimpse into the enigmatic and controversial figure of Mao Zedong. It serves as a reminder of the complex and often contradictory nature of political leadership and the profound impact it can have on individuals and society. By reflecting on Chang's personal experience and observations, we gain valuable insights into the enduring legacy of Mao's rule and the enduring lessons it holds for understanding the dynamics of power, ideology, and human resilience.