Zhang Zhongmou’s bedside book is actually Shakespeare and “A Dream of Red Mansions”.

The second volume of “The Autobiography of Zhang Zhongmu” has been released. This book provides insights into the personal interests of Chang Chung-mou, the founder of TSMC. He expresses a deep passion for literature and shares that he has maintained a reading habit since childhood. In an interview, he mentioned that the works of Shakespeare and “A Dream of Red Mansions” are his favorite bedtime reads, highlighting their timeless exploration of human nature.

Zhang believes that Shakespeare’s plays are crucial for understanding humanity. He values “A Dream of Red Mansions” for its detailed portrayal of human experiences. Despite differing opinions among scholars, he considers this classic an irreplaceable work. Notably, he titled a chapter of his autobiography “Opening Up Hongmeng,” referencing a character from “A Dream of Red Mansions,” Jia Baoyu, to illustrate his journey in founding TSMC.

He often draws from literature during significant moments. At his 90th birthday, he quoted Shakespeare’s line, “Uneasy lies the head that wears a crown,” to emphasize the weight of leadership responsibilities. In the twelfth chapter of his autobiography, he reflects on personal experiences, remarking that external circumstances cannot alleviate inner loneliness. He echoes sentiments from Qiong Yao’s novel, expressing a sense of longing through the words, “It is better to go back!”

Zhang’s love for literature began in childhood. He enjoyed reading alone and contributed to school publications. He read extensively during high school in Shanghai, exploring both classical and modern Chinese literature. After moving to the U.S., he delved into Western literature, studying works by Hemingway, Fitzgerald, and Churchill, among others. This blend of Eastern and Western reading reflects the breadth of his interests and his insightful observations about human nature.

Zhang Zhongmu’s reading journey not only highlights his literary interests but also offers valuable perspectives on life. His recommendations serve as an inspiration for both aspiring readers and leaders.