Introduction#
Infernal Affairs is a classic Hong Kong crime novel written by Liu Qian. It is adapted from the film of the same name. The novel is set in early 1990s Hong Kong and reveals the complexity of society and the multifaceted nature of human beings through the struggle between the police and the triads. This book review will explore the dual dilemma of identity and morality in the novel, analyze the protagonist's struggle between good and evil, and how they find themselves in this world full of conspiracy and betrayal.
Story Overview#
The story of Infernal Affairs revolves around two main characters: Chen Wing Yan and Lau Kin Ming. Chen Wing Yan is an undercover cop who has infiltrated the triads for many years, while Lau Kin Ming is a triad member who has been planted in the police force. Both of them live in each other's camps, experiencing the displacement of their identities and the torment of their minds. The novel is full of suspense and thrills, with a captivating plot.
Theme Analysis#
Dilemma of Identity and Morality
The dual identities of Chen Wing Yan and Lau Kin Ming have plunged them into profound moral dilemmas. Chen Wing Yan gradually loses himself in the triads, facing the choice between betrayal and loyalty, while Lau Kin Ming is gradually corrupted by power and desire in the police force, deviating from his initial ideals. The conflict of their identities is not only a personal struggle but also a questioning of social justice and moral boundaries.
Complexity and Fragility of Human Nature
The novel reveals the complexity and fragility of human nature through the experiences of the two protagonists. Chen Wing Yan has undergone countless life and death tests in the triads, and his resilience and bravery are admirable, but his inner loneliness and pain are also heartbreaking. Lau Kin Ming, on the other hand, gradually loses himself to the temptations of power, and his betrayal and corruption are lamentable. Through their stories, the novel portrays the multifaceted and fragile nature of human beings in extreme circumstances.
Character Analysis#
Chen Wing Yan
Chen Wing Yan is a complex and contradictory character. He has infiltrated the triads for many years and has experienced numerous life and death tests. His resilience and bravery are admirable, but his inner loneliness and pain are also heartbreaking. He gradually loses himself in the triads, facing the choice between betrayal and loyalty. His identity conflict is not only a personal struggle but also a questioning of social justice and moral boundaries.
Lau Kin Ming
Lau Kin Ming undergoes a transformation from an idealistic police officer to a triad member. He is gradually corrupted by power and desire in the police force, deviating from his initial ideals. His betrayal and downfall are lamentable. He gradually loses himself to the temptations of power and ultimately becomes the person he once despised the most. His story provokes deep thoughts on how one can maintain their original intentions and moral boundaries when faced with power and desire.
Social Background
Infernal Affairs reflects the social situation in Hong Kong in the early 1990s through the struggle between the police and the triads. The social order is chaotic, and the problem of collusion between the police and the triads is serious. The novel criticizes the social situation at that time by revealing the loopholes in the social system. Through this book, the author presents a world full of darkness and danger, while also revealing the complexity and fragility of human nature.
Conclusion#
Infernal Affairs is a suspenseful and thrilling novel that reveals the complexity and fragility of human nature through the exploration of the dual dilemma of identity and morality. The novel is not only entertaining but also a thought-provoking work that makes readers contemplate the meaning and value of life. For readers who enjoy suspense and crime genres, this book is a must-read.