Bai Wanjian: A Commentary

Bai Wanjian first appeared as an active character in Chapter 6 of Ode to Gallantry. Like his siblings-at-arms before him, he was generally angry, and mostly frustrated. Yet, he had a more three-dimensional personality than his siblings-at-arms. Through his speech, actions and thoughts, readers could see that Bai Wanjian was:

• A man in pain: He thought about his beloved daughter... young and tragic passing... Sorrow crept up on him once more. (Chapter 7)
• A man who cared a lot about his family and loved ones: "My father is healthy and well, thank you. However, my mother is no longer in Lingxiao City because of your son. ... My mother is already advanced in years. As her son, I cannot help but worry as she braves the winds and frosts among the rivers and lakes." (Chapter 7)
• A man who could control himself better than most of his siblings-at-arms: Yet, as a man of esteemed position, Bai Wanjian was unwilling to create a scene there and then. (Chapter 6)
• A man who actively sought a solution that was as non-confrontational and non-violent as possible: "Your teacher, the Dragon of Wind and Fire, lost an arm because of your unscrupulous and evil actions. Yet, Elder Brother Feng's kindness to you was as great as the mountains. Is there therefore any shred of shame left in your heart?" He spoke with such sincerity, hoping that the young man's conscience would eventually lead him into repentance. (Chapter 7)
• A man who was not completely blinded by anger: Shi Zhongyu was initially a fine disciple -- a selection in a thousand, one might say -- yet, he wilfully chose not to be good ... [felt] a deep pain in his heart about Shi Zhongyu. (Chapter 7)
• A man who could accept and talk about the weaknesses of his martial arts school: "To be honest, the key to the internal strength cultivation techniques of our school may not necessarily contain anything remarkable." (Chapter 7)
• A man who could accept defeat: Regardless of what the situation is, the battle between Shi Qing and me can only result in a draw. If Mrs Shi joins in, the earlier results will be replayed; so why should the fight continue? (Chapter 7)
• A man who would not resort to lame arguments: Since he had let Shi Qing down, he no longer had any logical reasons to engage in lame arguments. (Chapter 7)

In two short chapters, Jin Yong has managed to write Bai Wanjian in such a holistic and heartfelt way that readers (or at least, I) can identify with his struggles, frustrations and ideals as he sought to bring the humiliator of his family to justice. In addition, Bai Wanjian stood out among the many characters that Jin Yong has created as an embodiment of the virtues and values that were associated with chivalrous sword-bearing Chinese men and women from days long gone.