Writer and essayist Lin Ching-hsuan died on Jan. 22 at the age of 65. Lin was a previous recipient of the National Award for Arts and other honors, and many of his works have been compiled in Chinese-language textbooks in China, Hong Kong and Taiwan. A funeral will be held on Jan. 27.


I published my first book 38 years ago. It was a compilation of my Shin Sheng Daily News columns. Later, Chiu Ko Publishing Company published my books. That was a great era.

At the beginning of last year, writer and essayist Lin Ching-hsuan helped his publisher Chiu Ko Publishing Company to celebrate its 40th anniversary. He also thanked founder Cai Wen-fu for his patronage. Lin rose to fame on the strength of a work that taught readers how to "reform their minds," and was regarded as a "spiritual teacher." Twenty years ago, he left Taiwan following public backlash over his divorce. He went to China and traveled around giving lectures. Some of his works currently appear in Chinese textbooks.

Lin Ching-hsuan's essays form part of China's literature and language textbooks. There are a total of 26 essays in elementary school and junior high school to college textbooks, including six in elementary school textbooks alone. Every year, there are at least 100 million children who will read my essays.

Lin graduated from Shih Hsin University, and previously worked as a journalist. He began writing essays at the age of 20 and became the bestselling author in the country in 1992. He received numerous major awards, including the National Award for Arts. His works can be found in many textbooks in China, Hong Kong and Taiwan. He was considered one of the eight great contemporary essayists. Lin died at the age of 65 on Jan. 22. His passing saddened many of his colleagues.

His relationship with Chiu Ko Publishing Company was very deep. When he was 26, Chiu Ko was only in its second year of existence. Last year, Chiu Ko celebrated its 40th anniversary. He was always grateful to Mr. Cai, because he wasn't yet famous when he was 26. That's why he attended our 40th anniversary celebration. That was the last time I saw him.

The Ministry of Culture said Lin dedicated his life to writing, and it was saddened by his passing. Lin's family confirmed his death on Jan. 22 through publishing company Booklife's Facebook page. Booklife said Lin's family will hold a funeral on Jan. 27, and hasn't yet decided on the time or venue.