Famous romance novelist Chiung Yao passed away today, December 4 at the age of 86. Taiwanese media reports the author committed suicide at her home in New Taipei city. The influential author also left behind a note where she expressed her wish to take control of her death rather than waiting for old age to run its course. “I don’t want to leave it to fate, I don’t want to slowly wither and die, I want to take charge of this last major event”. When paramedics arrived at the scene, they found Chiung Yao no longer breathing or having a heartbeat.
Chiung Yao’s Farewell Message
Aside from her farewell note, she also left a pre-recorded video which her secretary uploaded on social media earlier this afternoon. “….my original intention remains the same as yesterday. This is my final choice. The time has come and life will not be better. Whilst I can still smile and sing, not drag down my loved ones nor overcome by disease, my heart is free, unrestrained and happy. At this moment, like sparks and snowflakes blooming at the same time, I will fly to a universe where I can dance.” She added that it’s a choice made upon reaching the end of life. She’s experienced life to the fullest and said young people should not give up their lives easily, but live vigorously. Meanwhile, colleagues such as Alec Su, Huang Yi and Yao Chen have shared messages of condolence after the news of her passing spread.
Chiung Yao has quite a number of best-selling novels under her belt such as Outside the Window and Fire and Rain, many of which were adapted into film and TV. The super popular My Fair Princess in particular also became a massive hit, instantly catapulting its previously unknown stars Zhao Wei, Ruby Lin and Fan Bingbing to overnight fame.
Joanna
WHAT THE… While an understandable choice, still so sad.
Coralie
such a brave and courageous woman. there is something to be said of assisted suicide and not waiting around for a death penalty. it’s so amazing she has this clarity while she’s still cognizant and not wish to be a burden to her family…
it makes me think, because I’m pretty much 1/3rd of the way there. I hope when the time comes, I too, will be brave enough to make this decision.
Live, laugh and love while we all still can (however cliche the phrase is.) Because as we get older, unless age can be reversed with technology, we are a liability nevertheless.
Pristine
Agree totally.