Simon Leys

Simon Leys, the pen-name of Pierre Ryckmans, was a Belgian literary scholar and sinologist whose writings illuminated the complexities of Chinese literature and politics. Writing in three languages, he played a crucial role in exposing the true nature of the Cultural Revolution, earning international acclaim for his incisive analysis. Leys was celebrated for his keen intellect and his ability to weave literary criticism with political commentary, offering readers profound insights into challenging societal phenomena. His body of work remains an essential resource for understanding Chinese culture and history.