Famed Taiwan essayist dies at 65

Famed essayist Lin Ching-hsuan died of heart attack today at the age of 65.

The veteran writer, poet and scholar was honored with numerous prizes throughout his career. He also used other pen names such as Qin Qing, Lin Li and Lin Da-bei.

Hundreds of fans were quick to pay tribute to the award-winning artist through social media platforms. Many said how his works and Zen wisdom helped them appreciate the beauty, priorities and meaning of life.

A Taiwan native born to a farmer’s family, Lin has worked as a journalist for many years. He is considered to be one of the most prolific and well-established contemporary essayists in China. His first book, “Lian Hua Kai Luo,” or “Blossoming and Falling of Lotus,” was published in 1973. The writer went on to publish more than 100 books.

His last Weibo post, uploaded yesterday, said: “I was inspired by the death of sparrows as I passed through the forest. Though we struggle in the net of reality, we shall never forget the dream to fly, nor how to.”