Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils by was first serialised in newspapers from 3 September 1963 to 27 May 1966.
The story has been revised twice with the second edition published in October 1978 and the third edition released in November 2002.
The Eight Races of Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils would be a more accurate translation of the story's title. The Eight Races refer to the deities in Buddhist cosmology. They are: Deva, Nāga, Yaksha, Asura, Garuda, Kinnara, Gandharva and Mahoraga. These demi-gods and semi-devils are above mortals but are still bound to the by their own desires.
The widely accepted translation of the title collectively refers to the eight races as demi-gods and semi-devils.
The story follows the journeys of three protagonists. The main thematic element of the novel concerns the complex, troubled relationships between characters from various kingdoms and sects, and the inherent bond that underlies the struggles of each. The novel examines the cause and effect that forms and breaks these bonds on five uniquely corresponding levels: self, family, society, ethnic group, and country.
Book 4 《洞仙歌》Song Of The Cave Immortal - featuring Xu Zhu
输赢成败，又争由人算！
Victory or defeat, how can it be predicted!
且自逍遥没谁管，
Carefree for now with no one supervising,
奈天昏地暗，斗转星移。
Enduring anarchy, or apocalypse.
风骤紧，缥缈峰头云乱。
Strong winds, throwing Piaomiao Peak into turmoil.
红颜弹指老，刹那芳华。
A beauty abruptly age, a fleeting moment of bliss.
梦里真真语真幻。
Dreaming of real heartfelt words in a tangible fantasy.
同一笑，到头万事俱空。
Laughing in unison, it was all for naught in the end.
糊涂醉，情长计短。
Recklessly drunk, misdirecting passion.
解不了，名缰系嗔贪。
Unable to withdraw, the post of authority is linked to greed and wrath.
却试问，几时把痴心断？
Take a step back and ponder, when would the delusion end?
YOU ARE READING
DEMI GODS AND SEMI DEVILS BOOK 4 OF 5 (SONG OF THE CAVE IMMORTAL) by Jin Yong
Historical FictionBetween the period of 960-1127, Northern Song Dynasty is at war with the Liao dynasty. Three sworn brothers; Xiao Feng, Duan Yu, and Xuzhu join forces to bring what's right and just in the martial world. The three of them each have their own char...
