Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (novel)

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is a wuxia novel by Wang Dulu, originally published in serialized form between 1938 and 1939. It is the fourth book in Wang's Crane Iron Series. The novel is known for its themes of lost love, duty, sacrifice, and the conflict between personal desires and societal expectations within the Jianghu (martial arts world).

The story revolves around Yu Shu Lien, a female warrior, and Li Mu Bai, a renowned swordsman who has decided to relinquish his sword, the Green Destiny, to be taken to Peking as a gift to a friend. The sword is stolen, leading to a chase that reveals the hidden lives and secrets of several characters, including Jen Yu, the daughter of a powerful government official, and Lo, a desert bandit. Jen Yu possesses exceptional martial arts skills she secretly learned from the notorious Jade Fox, the woman who murdered Li Mu Bai's master.

The novel explores the complex relationships between these characters, their inner struggles, and the allure and danger of the Jianghu. It is notable for its lyrical prose, compelling characters, and philosophical underpinnings.

While not as widely known in the West as the film adaptation, the novel is a celebrated work of Chinese literature and a significant contribution to the wuxia genre. It provides a deeper exploration of the characters and themes presented in the film.