“Saboteur” by Ha Jin: A Critical Analysis

Introduction: “Saboteur” by Ha Jin

“Saboteur” by Ha Jin, first published in 1996 in The Antioch Review, is a powerful look at the dangers of unchecked authority and the fragile position of individuals within an oppressive system. Jin, a Chinese author writing in English, explores the experiences of a university professor wrongly accused and imprisoned, highlighting the vulnerability of intellectuals under authoritarian regimes. The story’s sharp social commentary and exploration of individual resilience in the face of injustice continue to resonate with readers today.

Main Events: “Saboteur” by Ha Jin

1. Unjust Arrest: Railroad police interrupt Mr. Chiu and his bride’s lunch, falsely accuse him of disrupting public order, and arrest him despite his protests. The police’s mistreatment, such as throwing hot tea on the couple, emphasizes their abuse of power.
2. False Accusations: Mr. Chiu is imprisoned and branded a “saboteur.” The police dismiss his claims of innocence and threaten to sabotage his travel plans by letting his train ticket expire.
3. Isolation and Denial: Locked in a cell, Mr. Chiu is denied contact with his bride and any means of proving his innocence. This highlights the injustice and helplessness of his situation.
4. Coerced Witnesses: During interrogation, the police present coerced witness statements against Mr. Chiu, further demonstrating the manipulation used to secure a false conviction.
5. Deteriorating Health: Mr. Chiu’s pre-existing hepatitis flares up due to the stress of his unjust imprisonment and mistreatment, adding a physical dimension to his suffering.
6. Resistance and Threats: Mr. Chiu refuses to cooperate and demands compensation and an apology for his mistreatment. He even threatens legal action, showcasing his determination to fight back.
7. Witness to Further Injustice: From his cell, Mr. Chiu witnesses the police torturing Fenjin, a young lawyer and his former student, who has come to his aid. The water torture Fenjin endures exemplifies the cruelty of the authorities.
8. Impossible Choice: The police use Fenjin’s suffering as leverage, forcing Mr. Chiu to choose between his own freedom and saving his student from further abuse.
9. Forced Confession to Save Another: In a heartbreaking act of sacrifice, Mr. Chiu signs a false confession admitting to fabricated crimes in exchange for Fenjin’s release.
10. Release and Inner Turmoil: Though free, Mr. Chiu is ravaged by illness, anger, and a profound sense of injustice that seeps into his every action.
11. Ominous Observation: Fenjin tries to comfort his teacher, unaware of the depth of Mr. Chiu’s pain and the plans for revenge simmering within him.
12. A Cryptic Act of Protest: Mr. Chiu visits multiple restaurants near the police station, ordering small portions and muttering threats. This strange behavior hints at his inner turmoil and potential plans.
13. Vengeance Seeded: Mr. Chiu’s vengeful muttering and erratic behavior foreshadow a possible act of retribution against his oppressors.
14. Seeds of Wider Consequences: The story concludes by revealing a hepatitis outbreak in the area. This suggests a potential connection to Mr. Chiu’s mistreatment and imprisonment, highlighting the far-reaching consequences of injustice.

Literary Devices: “Saboteur” by Ha Jin

Literary Device	Example from “Saboteur”	Explanation
Allegory	The story can be read as an allegory for the abuse of power, corruption, and the suppression of individual rights within authoritarian systems.	The false accusations against Mr. Chiu and the police’s brutality symbolize how easily authority can be misused to control and silence citizens.
Contrast	Mr. Chiu’s meticulous eating habits at the beginning contrast sharply with his frenzied eating spree after his release.	This highlights the transformation from law-abiding citizen to a man driven by rage and desire for vengeance.
Dialogue	Conversations between Mr. Chiu and the police, as well as with his bride and Fenjin, reveal the characters’ motivations and the unjust power dynamics in play.	Mr. Chiu’s assertive dialogue when first arrested shows his belief in justice, while his defeated tone after imprisonment reveals the toll it has taken on him.
Foreshadowing	The hepatitis outbreak at the end foreshadows a potential act of revenge by Mr. Chiu, possibly through deliberate contamination.	This creates suspense and a sense of impending consequence.
Hyperbole	Mr. Chiu’s exaggerated threats to sue the police and seek media attention emphasize his desperation and his futile attempts to fight against a corrupt system.	It highlights the feeling of powerlessness experienced by ordinary citizens.
Imagery	Vivid details of the food Mr. Chiu eats, his physical ailments, and the squalid conditions of his cell create a strong sensory experience for the reader.	This immerses the reader in Mr. Chiu’s experience, evoking empathy and making his plight more visceral.
Irony	The police, meant to uphold order, are the ones disrupting the peace and falsely accusing an innocent man.	This underscores the perversion of justice and their abuse of power.
Juxtaposition	The peaceful image of Chairman Mao’s statue with peasants napping at its base is juxtaposed with the violence and injustice Mr. Chiu experiences.	This contrasts the ideals often presented by authority figures with the harsh reality citizens can face.
Metaphor	Mr. Chiu’s hepatitis is a metaphor for his growing anger and desire for revenge.	It symbolizes how the mistreatment consumes him, both physically and emotionally.
Motif	The repeated mention of food – from the initial lunch to the revenge-fueled eating spree – becomes a motif representing both comfort and potential weaponization.	This emphasizes Mr. Chiu’s transformation and hints at the symbolic nature of his actions.
Pathetic Fallacy	The sunny, pleasant weather on the day of his arrest contrasts with the injustice unfolding.	This highlights the indifference of the world to an individual’s suffering.
Repetition	Mr. Chiu’s repeated insistence on his innocence and his demands for justice underscore his frustration and ultimately the futility of his efforts.	This emphasizes how easily the voices of ordinary citizens can be crushed by those in power.
Setting	The location of the story at a train station and police headquarters emphasizes themes of transition, authority, and confinement.	This reinforces the feeling of being trapped in an unjust situation.
Simile	Describing Mr. Chiu’s anger building as “a bomb” in his chest conveys the intensity and volatility of his emotions.	It vividly illustrates his potential for destructive action.
Symbolism	The act of eating represents both a source of strength and a potential weapon.	It symbolizes Mr. Chiu’s desperate struggle to regain control, even if by unconventional means.
Third-person limited	The story is told from Mr. Chiu’s perspective, allowing the reader to experience his confusion, fear, and growing rage.	This fosters a sense of empathy and outrage on his behalf.

Characterization in “Saboteur” by Ha Jin

Major Characters:

• Mr. Chiu:
  • Description: Mr. Chiu is the protagonist of the story, a recently married man on his honeymoon. He is recovering from hepatitis and is cautious about his health. Despite being falsely accused of sabotage, he maintains his principles and refuses to confess to a crime he did not commit.
  • Actions: Mr. Chiu is wrongfully arrested by the railroad policemen after a confrontation in the square. Despite facing pressure and threats from the authorities, he remains steadfast in his innocence and demands justice.
  • Traits: Assertive, principled, intellectual.
• Mr. Chiu’s Bride:
  • Description: Mr. Chiu’s wife accompanies him on their honeymoon. She expresses concern for his well-being during his arrest but is ultimately powerless to intervene effectively.
  • Actions: She supports Mr. Chiu emotionally but is unable to prevent his arrest or provide substantial assistance.
  • Traits: Supportive, distressed, inexperienced.
• Fenjin:
  • Description: Fenjin is a recent law graduate and a former student of Mr. Chiu. He attempts to help Mr. Chiu during his ordeal but ends up being arrested and tortured alongside him.
  • Actions: Fenjin tries to intervene on behalf of Mr. Chiu but is unsuccessful, leading to his own arrest and mistreatment by the authorities.
  • Traits: Idealistic, brave, impulsive.

Minor Characters:

• Railroad Policemen:
  • Description: The officers stationed at Muji Train Station who unjustly arrest Mr. Chiu. They abuse their power and act aggressively towards Mr. Chiu and his wife.
  • Actions: They instigate a confrontation with Mr. Chiu in the square, leading to his arrest and subsequent mistreatment.
  • Traits: Abusive, authoritarian.
• Chief of the Interrogation Bureau:
  • Description: The head of the police department responsible for interrogating Mr. Chiu. He pressures Mr. Chiu to confess to the alleged crime and threatens further punishment if he refuses.
  • Actions: The chief manipulates Mr. Chiu, using intimidation tactics to coerce a false confession from him.
  • Traits: Manipulative, authoritative.
• Guards:
  • Description: The police officers tasked with managing detainees at the police station. They escort Mr. Chiu within the facility and carry out orders from their superiors.
  • Actions: The guards follow orders and maintain order within the police station, showing little empathy towards detainees.
  • Traits: Obedient, indifferent.
• Food Vendors:
  • Description: Sellers near the police station and train station who serve food and drinks to Mr. Chiu and Fenjin.
  • Actions: The vendors provide sustenance to Mr. Chiu and Fenjin during their ordeal, though they remain indifferent to the circumstances surrounding their customers.
  • Traits: Transactional, indifferent to circumstances.

Major Themes in “Saboteur” by Ha Jin

1. Abuse of Power and Authority: “Saboteur” highlights the theme of abuse of power and authority by depicting the unjust actions of the railroad policemen towards Mr. Chiu. The story begins with Mr. Chiu and his bride innocently enjoying lunch when they are targeted and harassed by the officers without any valid reason. Despite Mr. Chiu’s attempts to reason with them, the policemen escalate the situation by physically assaulting him and fabricating charges of sabotage. This abuse of power is further exemplified when Mr. Chiu is subjected to interrogation and coerced into signing a false confession by the chief of the Interrogation Bureau. Through these events, Ha Jin underscores how individuals in positions of authority can misuse their power to oppress and victimize innocent citizens.
2. Injustice and Oppression: The theme of injustice and oppression permeates the narrative as Mr. Chiu becomes a victim of false accusations and mistreatment at the hands of the authorities. Despite his innocence, Mr. Chiu is subjected to arrest, detention, and torture solely based on the whims of the railroad policemen. His attempts to assert his innocence are met with skepticism and further abuse, highlighting the systemic injustices prevalent within the society depicted in the story. Moreover, the mistreatment extends to Fenjin, who is also unjustly targeted for his attempt to aid Mr. Chiu. Ha Jin portrays a bleak picture of a society where individuals are at the mercy of a corrupt and oppressive system.
3. Individual Resistance and Integrity: Amidst the pervasive injustice, “Saboteur” also explores the theme of individual resistance and integrity through Mr. Chiu’s unwavering commitment to truth and justice. Despite facing immense pressure and coercion, Mr. Chiu refuses to confess to a crime he did not commit, maintaining his integrity and principles throughout his ordeal. His steadfast refusal to compromise his values, even in the face of grave consequences, serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Additionally, Fenjin’s willingness to stand by Mr. Chiu and support him despite the risks demonstrates the power of solidarity and moral courage in the fight against oppression.
4. Consequences of Resentment and Retribution: Ha Jin explores the theme of consequences of resentment and retribution through the story’s chilling conclusion. Mr. Chiu, consumed by anger and resentment towards his oppressors, expresses a desire for vengeance, muttering about killing them all. This desire for retribution manifests in the form of an epidemic of acute hepatitis that sweeps through Muji, resulting in numerous casualties, including innocent children. The outbreak serves as a grim reminder of the destructive consequences of unchecked resentment and the cyclical nature of violence. Ha Jin suggests that while individuals may seek retribution for past injustices, the repercussions of such actions can perpetuate further suffering and harm, ultimately leading to a tragic cycle of violence and loss.

Writing Style in “Saboteur” by Ha Jin

Writing Style in “Saboteur” by Ha Jin

1. Sparse and Descriptive Language:

Ha Jin employs a sparse yet vivid writing style, using descriptive language to evoke the atmosphere and setting of the story. For example, he describes the scene at the train station with succinct yet evocative details, such as “the air smelled of rotten melon” and “a flock of pigeons perched on the chairman’s raised hand and forearm.” These descriptions immerse the reader in the narrative, creating a palpable sense of place and mood.

2. Dialogue-driven Narrative:

The story unfolds primarily through dialogue, driving the narrative forward and revealing the characters’ motivations and conflicts. Dialogue is used to convey tension, emotion, and power dynamics between characters, such as Mr. Chiu’s confrontations with the railroad policemen. For instance, the dialogue exchanges during Mr. Chiu’s interrogation showcase the power struggle between him and the authorities, adding depth to the characterization and plot development.

3. Psychological Insight into Characters:

Ha Jin provides subtle insights into the characters’ inner thoughts and emotions, offering glimpses into their psychological states and motivations. Through Mr. Chiu’s internal monologue and reactions, the reader gains insight into his growing frustration, anger, and determination to resist injustice. Similarly, Fenjin’s reactions and responses to the unfolding events offer clues to his resilience and moral compass in the face of adversity.

4. Symbolism and Allegory:

The narrative incorporates elements of symbolism and allegory to convey deeper thematic layers and social commentary. For example, the statue of Chairman Mao in the town square symbolizes authority and control, reflecting the oppressive nature of the regime and its impact on individuals like Mr. Chiu. Additionally, the epidemic of hepatitis at the story’s conclusion serves as an allegory for the destructive consequences of unchecked resentment and violence in society. Through these symbolic elements, Ha Jin invites readers to reflect on broader themes of power, justice, and morality.

Literary Theories and Interpretation of “Saboteur” by Ha Jin

1. Marxist Criticism:

Marxist criticism can be applied to “Saboteur” to analyze the story’s portrayal of social class struggle and power dynamics. Mr. Chiu’s encounter with the corrupt authorities at the train station reflects the oppression of the working class by those in positions of authority. His unjust arrest and treatment by the police highlight the exploitation and abuse of power in a hierarchical society. Furthermore, the story’s setting in post-Cultural Revolution China provides a backdrop for examining Marxist themes of inequality and resistance.

2. Feminist Criticism:

From a feminist perspective, “Saboteur” can be interpreted through the lens of gender roles and patriarchy. While the story primarily focuses on Mr. Chiu’s ordeal, his bride’s presence and reactions offer insight into the experiences of women in a male-dominated society. Despite her intelligence and education, she is rendered powerless and marginalized in the face of authority, reflecting broader gender disparities and societal expectations. Her silence and inability to assert herself underscore the limitations placed on women within the narrative.

3. Psychoanalytic Criticism:

Psychoanalytic criticism can uncover subconscious desires, fears, and motivations within the characters of “Saboteur.” Mr. Chiu’s escalating anger and defiance against the authorities may stem from repressed feelings of resentment and disillusionment with the social order. His aggressive behavior and fantasies of revenge could be seen as manifestations of unconscious impulses seeking release. Similarly, the policemen’s abuse of power and sadistic treatment of Mr. Chiu may reflect their own psychological insecurities and need for control.

4. Postcolonial Criticism:

Postcolonial theory offers insights into the themes of imperialism and cultural identity in “Saboteur.” Although the story is set in post-revolutionary China, it explores dynamics of power and resistance reminiscent of colonial contexts. The oppressive actions of the police and Mr. Chiu’s defiance can be interpreted as symbolic of resistance against colonial or authoritarian regimes. Additionally, the story’s conclusion, with the outbreak of hepatitis affecting hundreds, may symbolize the lingering effects of colonialism or external interference on the nation’s health and well-being.

Topics, Questions and Thesis Statements about “Saboteur” by Ha Jin

Topics

• The Absurdity of Accusation
• The Power of Propaganda and Manipulation
• The Individual vs. the State
• Betrayal and the Destruction of Trust
• The Psychological Toll of False Imprisonment

Questions

• How does Ha Jin create a sense of paranoia and suspicion within the story?
• To what extent is Mr. Chiu responsible for his own downfall?
• Does Mr. Chiu ever truly believe the accusations made against him?
• How does the story portray the shifting dynamics of power within relationships?
• How does the story function as a critique of totalitarian regimes?

Thesis Statements

• Ha Jin’s “Saboteur” explores how state propaganda and manufactured fear can turn ordinary citizens into victims of their own society.
• “Saboteur” reveals the psychological deterioration of an innocent man who is destroyed by a system designed to crush individuality and instill obedience.
• Through the experiences of Mr. Chiu, Ha Jin examines the fragility of personal identity and the ease with which reputations can be manipulated and destroyed.
• Ha Jin’s “Saboteur” serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unquestioning loyalty and the dehumanizing effects of authoritarian control.

Short Questions/Answers about “Saboteur” by Ha Jin

• Question: How does the story highlight the insidious nature of propaganda?
• Answer: “Saboteur” demonstrates how propaganda subtly erodes trust and fuels suspicion. The constant barrage of slogans and accusations against “saboteurs” creates an atmosphere of fear and paranoia. Even Mr. Chiu’s wife begins to doubt him, mirroring the state’s ability to turn loved ones against each other. When she reports his “anti-party” remark about the bad quality of a light bulb, it shows how the propaganda has warped everyday actions into acts of potential sabotage.
• Question: How is Mr. Chiu both a victim and a participant in his own persecution?
• Answer: While unquestionably a victim of a totalitarian system, Mr. Chiu also contributes to his downfall by internalizing the state’s rhetoric. His initial insistence on reporting his “mistake” reflects his indoctrination in self-surveillance. Later, he even begins to fabricate details to make his confessions more convincing. This highlights the psychological manipulation that makes victims complicit in their own oppression.
• Question: How does the setting of the university compound reflect the social dynamics of the story?
• Answer: The claustrophobic environment of the university amplifies the sense of confinement and the inescapability of surveillance. Colleagues become potential accusers, and the once-familiar space transforms into a prison. This mirroring of the physical and psychological state reinforces the story’s themes of entrapment and the erosion of personal freedom.
• Question: What is the significance of the ending, and how does it leave the reader feeling?
• Answer: The ending, with Mr. Chiu’s reassignment to menial labor, underscores the devastating and irreversible impact of false accusations. It offers no resolution or redemption. This bleakness leaves the reader with a lingering sense of unease and injustice, emphasizing the destructive power of totalitarian regimes.

Literary Works Similar to “Saboteur” by Ha Jin

1. “The Bet” by Anton Chekhov: This short story explores themes of power, morality, and the human condition. Similar to “Saboteur,” it delves into the consequences of unchecked authority and the ethical dilemmas faced by individuals in oppressive systems.
2. “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson: Like “Saboteur,” this renowned short story examines the darker aspects of human nature and society. Set in a seemingly idyllic town, “The Lottery” uncovers the brutality and conformity inherent in tradition and social order.
3. “Bartleby, the Scrivener” by Herman Melville: This novella offers a critique of capitalist society and explores themes of alienation and resistance. Like Mr. Chiu in “Saboteur,” Bartleby’s passive resistance challenges the authority and norms of his workplace.
4. “The Trial” by Franz Kafka: Kafka’s novel deals with themes of bureaucracy, absurdity, and the individual’s struggle against an opaque and oppressive system. This existential exploration shares similarities with Mr. Chiu’s Kafkaesque ordeal in “Saboteur.”
5. “The Underground Railroad” by Colson Whitehead: While not a short story, this Pulitzer Prize-winning novel offers a powerful narrative of resistance and escape from oppression. Like “Saboteur,” it examines the human capacity for both cruelty and resilience in the face of systemic injustice.

Suggested Readings about “Saboteur” by Ha Jin

Books:

1. Jin, Ha. The Bridegroom: Stories. Vintage Books, 2001.
   • Includes “Saboteur” among other short stories by Ha Jin, providing insight into the author’s themes and style.

Articles:

1. Su, Lezhou. Narrative of modern Chinese masculinity in Ha Jin’s fiction. University of Louisville, 2012.
2. Discusses Ha Jin’s position within Chinese literary tradition, offering context for understanding “Saboteur” and its themes.

Websites:

1. The Antioch Review. “Saboteur by Ha Jin.” Antioch Review, Inc., 1996, https://antiochcollege.edu/antioch-review/
   • Original source of the short story “Saboteur,” providing the text for online reading and study.

Representative Quotations from “Saboteur” by Ha Jin

Quotation	Context
“You’re lying. You wet your shoes yourself.”	Demonstrates the authority’s denial of accountability, reflecting the abuse of power against Mr. Chiu.
“Comrade policeman, your duty is to keep order, but you purposely tortured us common citizens.”	Mr. Chiu’s accusation exposes the injustice and hypocrisy of those in authority.
“I demand that you provide me with a letter of apology.”	Highlights Mr. Chiu’s insistence on justice and acknowledgment of wrongdoing by the authorities.
“We call it fiction. What we do care is that you cooperate with us.”	Reveals the arbitrary nature of the authorities’ actions and their disregard for truth or justice.
“It’s illegal to do that. Aren’t you afraid to appear in a newspaper?”	Fenjin’s question reflects a glimmer of hope for justice and accountability.
“If only I could kill all the bastards!”	Mr. Chiu’s simmering anger and frustration at the injustices he faces.
“Nobody knew how the epidemic had started.”	Concludes the story with a chilling ambiguity, suggesting the pervasive consequences of unchecked authority and oppression.
“He felt miserable, massaging his stomach continually.”	Illustrates Mr. Chiu’s physical and emotional suffering as a result of the authorities’ abuse of power.