Life and Death are Wearing Me Out

Mo Yan

Synopsis

"Life and Death Are Wearing Me Out" by Mo Yan follows the story of Ximen Nao, a wealthy landowner who is executed during China's land reform in 1949. Reincarnated through various animals—donkey, ox, pig, dog, and monkey—over several decades, Ximen witnesses the dramatic social and political changes in China from the early Communist era to the end of the 20th century. The novel blends magical realism, satire, and historical fiction to explore themes of power, injustice, and resilience, providing a rich and multifaceted critique of modern Chinese history.

Lessons and Themes

Literary Techniques

Examine Mo Yan's use of magical realism, satire, and narrative structure.
Discuss how these techniques contribute to the novel's themes and overall impact.
Compare "Life and Death Are Wearing Me Out" with other works of magical realism, such as those by Gabriel Garcia Marquez or Haruki Murakami.
Discuss similarities and differences in themes, style, and cultural context.

Ethics

Engage students in discussions about the ethical dilemmas faced by the characters.
Debate the moral implications of the actions taken by individuals and the government.

Discussion Questions:

- What moral responsibilities do the characters have to one another throughout the various regimes depicted in the novel?
- How do the characters’ actions reflect or contradict their moral duties?

Assignment Ideas

Essay Prompts:
1. Write an essay analyzing the ethical development of Ximen Nao through his various reincarnations. How do his experiences as different animals shape his understanding of right and wrong?

2. Explore the theme of power and corruption in the novel. How do the actions of those in power impact the ethical landscape of the community? Are their actions justified?

3. Create an alternative ending for the novel where Ximen Nao is reincarnated into a different animal or even a human again. How would this new form affect his ethical perspective and actions?