This book is a study of four major French writers who differed widely in their understanding of Chinese civilization and whose length of stay in the country ranged from a few days (Malraux) to fourteen years (Claudel). These authors presented in their writings completely different aspects of China insomuch as they harbored dissimilar attitudes towards the nation and its people.

Professor Hsieh attempts to identify which aspects of the complex entity called "China" each writer chose to present while probing the personal and ideological reasons that gave rise to such a choice. The authors' writings are also examined against the backdrop of Chinese culture and history - including contemporary Chinese literature.

In this manner, Professor Hsieh gauges the sensitivity of these artists to the momentous changes that were shaping the destiny of modern China during this period of transition from Western occupation to the first rumblings of the Communist revolution.