Core Perspective - The article highlights the significance of Wang Lianmeng's novel "21 Nights," which brings to light the underground culture and experiences of coal miners in China, particularly focusing on the historical and human aspects of their lives [1][2]. Group 1: Cultural Significance - "21 Nights" is described as a literary masterpiece that captures the essence of underground culture, specifically the experiences of miners at a depth of 700 meters [1]. - The novel is structured in four parts: "Spring Surge, Quiet Reflection, Fission, and Rebirth," weaving together stories that reflect both historical depth and human warmth [1]. Group 2: Character and Narrative - The characters in Wang Lianmeng's work range from industrial workers to ordinary citizens, portrayed with raw authenticity and emotional depth [2]. - The narrative captures the struggles and complexities of life, emphasizing the intertwining of passion, love, truth, and falsehood, leading to profound insights into the human experience [2]. Group 3: Emotional Resonance - The book offers a strong sense of immersion, allowing readers to feel as if they are experiencing the miners' lives firsthand, amidst the sounds and sights of the underground [2]. - "21 Nights" is positioned as a refuge for the soul, providing a deep exploration of human nature and a gentle understanding of life's truths, contrasting with the superficiality of modern media [2].

Group 1 - The article emphasizes the importance of books as silent companions that convey thoughts and emotions through words, unfolding quietly when needed [1] - It highlights the significance of World Book Day on April 23, showcasing a selection of ten impactful books that reflect various stages of life, from youth to old age [3] Group 2 - Khaled Hosseini's novel depicts the friendship and betrayal between two boys, Amir and Hassan, against the backdrop of a war-torn Afghanistan, ultimately leading to Amir's journey of redemption [4] - Hermann Hesse's "Demian" explores the protagonist Sinclair's quest for self-discovery, guided by a mysterious figure named Demian [7][8] - Yang Mo's "Song of Youth" portrays the struggles of young intellectuals during a historical period in China, emphasizing their fight against oppression and their patriotic ideals [9] - Jack Kerouac's "On the Road" narrates the adventures of the protagonist and his friends, reflecting the exploration and search for meaning behind the rebellious lifestyle of the "Beat Generation" [11] - John Williams' novel follows the life of William Stoner, a university professor, exploring themes of existence and the human condition amidst historical neglect [13] - Qian Zhongshu's work critiques the spiritual dilemmas and weaknesses of intellectuals in 20th-century China, using the character Fang Hongjian's life as a lens [16] - Karl Ove Knausgård's autobiographical series "My Struggle" delves into the author's life experiences, capturing the essence of ordinary life with emotional depth [18] - The narrative of a terminally ill patient reflecting on life and humanity, emphasizing the courage to live deeply even in the face of death [19] - Gabriel García Márquez's "One Hundred Years of Solitude" is a landmark of magical realism, chronicling the rise and fall of the Buendía family and the town of Macondo, intertwining myth and history [21] - Stefan Zweig's "Moments of Humanity" presents historical vignettes that highlight pivotal moments and figures in history, illustrating the interplay of individual actions and historical events [24][25]