The story of this author begins in Sweden, where a profound curiosity for history and a deep fascination with China first blossomed. China had always stood out to me as an enigmatic world and culture wrapped in mystique, harbouring captivating stories waiting to be uncovered.

In 2025, I earned a Bachelor of Arts in History at Lund University, where I was fortunate to immerse myself in an intellectually vibrant and culturally diverse academic environment. It was during this formative period, that I chose to focus my research on China in its global context, began studying the Chinese language, and pursued further academic exploration in Beijing and Hong Kong.

This experience profoundly transformed my worldview, and inspired a deeper commitment to studying China’s significant legacy and ever-flowing culture. I have come to the realisation that China is not something you pursue half-heartedly. Although I found this to be a daunting challenge, it is one that I have embraced with fierce determination.

This autumn, I will begin a new chapter as I pursue a master’s degree in History and Archaeology at Yenching Academy of Peking University. Beyond being a historian, I aspire to become a sinologist as well. As my story is still unfolding, I will continue to enrich this diary with missing details and new chapters as my journey progresses.

I decided to give myself and the diary the name Moonlight Lady. In traditional Chinese culture, the moon is believed to be the carrier of human emotion. A silent witness to the inner world of the heart and mind, the quiet forces that shape our perceptions, guide our interactions, and ultimately leave their mark on history. As I write my own story, I let the moon cast its gentle light upon this diary, illuminating the pages with its timeless presence.

The purpose of this diary is to inspire people who are eager to learn about China and its connection to the world, past and present. As citizens of the world, let us relish the journey as we explore, grow, and learn from one another, for our lives are inevitably interwoven.

Yours Truly,

the Lady of the Moon

carmenmaxinesinclair@gmail.com