Letter to Mao Anying[1]

(December 26, 1946)

Anying, my son:

Both letters have been received. The second letter was very well written, which shows that compared to when you first returned to the country, not only has your writing improved, but your ideological quality has also progressed. The work you are doing is good. Persisting in the plan to read articles is very necessary, and it would also be good to continue reading for another year. I am in even better health than when you left. Jiang Qing and Li Na are both as usual.

Wishing you progress!

Mao Zedong

December 26, 1946

[1] In November 1946, after Mao Anying withdrew from Yan'an to the Wayaobao area with the Central Propaganda Department, he wrote to his father about his work situation and study insights. After receiving the letter, Mao Zedong replied with this letter to Mao Anying on December 26, the day of his 53rd birthday.

Mao Zedong and Mao Anying in Yan'an, 1946.