This chapter explores the various physical and mental frustrations associated with aging as perceived and experienced by Qing writers. Time and again, men and women lamented over their deteriorating appearance in their later years. Many expressed deep sadness about aging and the changes that came with it, particularly emphasizing their dislike of gray or white hair—and silver beards for men. Occasionally, strong language was used to convey these negative feelings, with writers describing themselves as ugly, laughable, ridiculous, or useless. It is important to note that men as well as women voiced significant discontent regarding their altered physical appearance. Additionally, complaints about functional decline from head to toe were prevalent, with issues such as visual impairment, hearing loss, dental discomfort, tooth loss, coated tongue, skin ulcers, abdominal problems, diarrhea, foot pain, joint injuries, and insomnia, among others, frequently appearing in their personal narratives. Furthermore, aged writers also highlighted the psychological aspects of their aging experiences. They expressed unease about becoming forgetful, feelings of incapacity, and helplessness stemming from increased dependence on others. The loneliness that accompanied the loss of peers further contributed to their negative attitudes toward the aging process.

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Various Kinds of Frustration Provoked by Aging

  • Clara Wing-chung Ho

摘要

This chapter explores the various physical and mental frustrations associated with aging as perceived and experienced by Qing writers. Time and again, men and women lamented over their deteriorating appearance in their later years. Many expressed deep sadness about aging and the changes that came with it, particularly emphasizing their dislike of gray or white hair—and silver beards for men. Occasionally, strong language was used to convey these negative feelings, with writers describing themselves as ugly, laughable, ridiculous, or useless. It is important to note that men as well as women voiced significant discontent regarding their altered physical appearance. Additionally, complaints about functional decline from head to toe were prevalent, with issues such as visual impairment, hearing loss, dental discomfort, tooth loss, coated tongue, skin ulcers, abdominal problems, diarrhea, foot pain, joint injuries, and insomnia, among others, frequently appearing in their personal narratives. Furthermore, aged writers also highlighted the psychological aspects of their aging experiences. They expressed unease about becoming forgetful, feelings of incapacity, and helplessness stemming from increased dependence on others. The loneliness that accompanied the loss of peers further contributed to their negative attitudes toward the aging process.