Enthusiasts of Chinese history, particularly in connection with Beijing, are in for a delightful experience as author Paul French will be in the city from March 19 to March 22 for a series of discussions and events centered around his latest publication.
French's visit will focus on his book, *Her Lotus Year: China, the Roaring Twenties, and the Making of Wallis Simpson*, which recounts the time Wallis Simpson, an American socialite and future spouse of Prince Edward, Duke of Windsor (formerly King Edward VIII), spent in China between 1924 and 1925. The book not only provides a narrative of her experiences but also aims to clarify many of the more scandalous rumors associated with Simpson's journey.
To learn more about the book discussion and the following post-AGM dinner, both organized by the Royal Asiatic Society, Beijing (RASBJ), we spoke with Melinda Liu, the society's vice president and a long-time resident of Beijing.
Hi, Melinda! What are your thoughts on *Her Lotus Year*? How did the idea for this in-person talk come about? I really enjoyed the book. Given the plethora of sensational rumors surrounding Wallis Simpson's time in China, it was refreshing to read something grounded in extensive research and an open perspective. Earlier this year, I arranged an online discussion for RASBJ where Paul spoke about Wallis in dialogue with sinologist Frances Wood. They were fantastic, and the event was a great success. After that, I started discussing with Paul the possibility of an in-person event for RASBJ during his visit to Beijing in March, brainstorming ways to make it distinct from a typical book talk.
What topics will be covered during the talk? Is it necessary to read the book beforehand? We've planned an event on March 19 where Paul will converse with Matthew Hu Xinyu from the Beijing Cultural Heritage Protection Society (CHP) about Shijia Hutong, the historic street where Wallis spent time. Attendees don’t need to have read the book beforehand; the discussion will not only revolve around Wallis but will also touch on various figures, institutions, and historical events relevant to Shijia Hutong, including literary personality Ling Shuhua, whose Republican-era home is now the Shijia Hutong Museum that showcases life in traditional Beijing. Shijia Hutong was home to many notable individuals involved in literature, performing arts, publishing, and government. For this event, RASBJ opted for a smaller group to engage in conversation about the area’s rich history with Paul and Matthew over dinner, and there will be a brief walk along Shijia Hutong to imagine what it may have felt like in the 1920s. Proceeds from the dinner will support Matthew's CHP as part of RASBJ's initiative to contribute to worthy causes.
This visit also aligns with RASBJ's post-AGM dinner. Can you share more about it? Paul will coincidentally be in town for RASBJ's AGM on March 22, and he kindly agreed to give the keynote speech at the annual post-AGM dinner. He plans to discuss the Peking Oriental Society from the late Qing period and evoke memories of the people and places of old Beijing. To enhance the vintage atmosphere, we decided to host this dinner at the old Peking Hotel (now NUO Hotel Beijing), where Wallis spent part of her "Lotus Year" in China. Some RASBJ members even suggested that attendees come dressed in 1920s evening wear, although it’s not a requirement.
It sounds like an exciting few days ahead! How can people register to attend? Individuals can register for the March 22 dinner, featuring Paul as the keynote speaker, through the provided link or by scanning the QR code on the poster. Those wishing to attend the March 19 dinner can email [email protected]. Since seating is limited, RASBJ members will have priority. If you’re interested in joining RASBJ as a member, there's a QR code in the poster at the end of the article.
What else is Paul French scheduled to do during his visit? James Zimmerman, a Beijing-based lawyer and author, is hosting a drinks reception in honor of Paul for members of the Foreign Correspondents Club of China (FCCC) on Friday, March 21. At that event, Paul will introduce his book to foreign journalists based in Beijing over drinks and some snacks.
Paul French's dinner and discussion on *Her Lotus Year* will take place near the Shijia Hutong Museum on Wednesday, March 19. Those interested in attending may send an email to the address mentioned earlier.
The RASBJ's Post-AGM Dinner & Talk will be held at NUO Hotel Beijing on Saturday, March 22, from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., with doors opening at 7
Author and China historian Paul French will be in Beijing from March 19 to 22 to talk about his newest book, Her Lotus Year, which explores Wallis Simpson's experiences in China.