In central China's Anhui province, a farmer named Zhang Shengwu has gained attention for building a homemade submarine. At 60 years old and without any formal engineering training, Zhang designed and constructed a 7-meter-long (approximately 23 feet) vessel that weighs 5 tonnes. His interest in invention began in childhood, but it was inspired by a television program featuring submarines that motivated him to create his own.

Zhang spent about 5,000 yuan (around US$700) on materials like steel plates, a battery, and an engine to bring his dream to life. He worked secretly on the project while his wife cared for his mother-in-law. The first prototype of the submarine was completed in two months and could dive up to 1 meter deep.

His creation has become popular among locals and sparked curiosity as it made its maiden dive into the river. Zhang expressed that he wants people to have dreams and aspirations beyond their current circumstances.

Original article

Here is an analysis of the article's value to the reader:

Actionable Information: The article does not provide any immediate actions for the reader to take. It does not offer a step-by-step guide or instructions on how to build a submarine or any other invention. While it mentions the materials Zhang used, it does not elaborate on specific resources or tools that are readily accessible to the average person. Thus, there is no clear action to be taken from this article.

Educational Depth: In terms of educational value, the article provides a glimpse into Zhang's personal story and his journey of building a homemade submarine. It offers a basic understanding of his motivation, the process, and the outcome. However, it lacks depth in explaining the engineering principles, the challenges faced, or the potential risks and rewards of such an endeavor. It does not teach the reader about the science or mechanics behind submarine construction, leaving educational depth somewhat limited.

Personal Relevance: The topic of a farmer building a submarine may capture the reader's attention and spark curiosity. However, its personal relevance is debatable. Unless the reader has a specific interest in engineering, invention, or unique hobbies, the article may not significantly impact their daily lives or long-term plans. It does not directly relate to common life experiences or decisions that most people face regularly.

Public Service Function: The article does not serve an immediate public service purpose. It does not provide any official warnings, safety guidelines, or emergency information related to submarine construction or river diving. While it may inspire curiosity and interest, it does not offer practical tools or resources for the public to utilize.

Practicality of Advice: As mentioned earlier, the article does not provide practical advice or steps for readers to follow. It does not offer a blueprint or guide for building submarines or any other inventions. The information is more of a narrative account of Zhang's personal journey, leaving the practicality of advice non-existent.

Long-Term Impact: The article's long-term impact is minimal. It does not encourage readers to take sustainable actions or make significant changes in their lives. While Zhang's story may inspire some to pursue their dreams, the article itself does not provide a framework for long-term planning or sustainable practices. It is more of a snapshot of an interesting event rather than a guide for lasting impact.

Emotional or Psychological Impact: The article may evoke emotions of inspiration, curiosity, or even awe. Zhang's story can motivate readers to believe in their abilities and pursue their passions. However, it does not delve into the psychological aspects of invention or provide tools to overcome emotional barriers. The emotional impact is more indirect and fleeting rather than a lasting, empowering feeling.

Clickbait or Ad-Driven Words: The article does not use sensational or clickbait language. It presents Zhang's story in a straightforward manner without exaggerating or promising more than it delivers. The language is factual and descriptive, focusing on the narrative rather than using dramatic or attention-grabbing words.

In summary, while the article tells an intriguing story, it lacks practical value for the average reader. It does not provide actionable steps, in-depth education, or long-term impact. The personal relevance and emotional impact are limited, and it does not serve an immediate public service function. It is more of an interesting narrative than a guide or resource for readers to utilize in their daily lives.

The tale of Zhang Shengwu's homemade submarine reveals a complex interplay of individual ambition, family dynamics, and community trust. While his invention may inspire awe and curiosity, it also raises concerns about the erosion of traditional moral bonds and the potential consequences for the well-being of families and communities.

Zhang's actions, driven by personal dreams and aspirations, demonstrate a disregard for the collective responsibilities that bind families and clans together. By working secretly on his project, he neglected his duty to care for his mother-in-law, a clear violation of the trust and support that should exist within a family unit. This breach of responsibility undermines the very foundation of family strength and unity.

Furthermore, his pursuit of a solitary dream, while admirable in its creativity, neglects the collective care of resources and the peaceful resolution of potential conflicts. The use of valuable materials and the potential environmental impact of his invention, without consultation or consideration of the community, is a breach of the duty to steward the land and its resources for the benefit of all.

The impact of Zhang's actions extends beyond his immediate family. By inspiring curiosity and potentially encouraging others to follow suit, he risks creating a culture where individual desires take precedence over communal responsibilities. This could lead to a breakdown of trust and a neglect of the vulnerable, especially children and elders, who rely on the collective protection and care of the community.

To restore the broken trust and uphold his duties, Zhang must acknowledge the impact of his actions and make amends. He should offer restitution to his family, perhaps by dedicating his time and energy to caring for his mother-in-law and ensuring her well-being. Additionally, he could engage with the community, sharing his knowledge and skills openly, and seeking guidance on how his invention can benefit the collective rather than just himself.

If Zhang's behavior spreads unchecked, it could lead to a society where individual pursuits override communal responsibilities, resulting in a fragmented community, a neglect of the vulnerable, and an unsustainable use of resources. The land, which provides for all, would suffer, and future generations would inherit a world where personal ambition takes precedence over the balance and harmony that have sustained life for centuries.

In conclusion, while Zhang's invention is a testament to human creativity, it also serves as a cautionary tale. The strength of families, the protection of the vulnerable, and the survival of the people and their land depend on a moral order rooted in shared kinship and respect for the land, not on individual pursuits that ignore collective duties.

"His creation has become popular among locals and sparked curiosity as it made its maiden dive into the river."

This sentence uses positive language to describe Zhang's submarine and its impact on the community. The words "popular" and "sparked curiosity" create a favorable impression, suggesting that the locals are interested and engaged. By emphasizing the submarine's popularity and the curiosity it generates, the sentence presents a positive view of Zhang's invention. This bias helps to portray Zhang's achievement in a favorable light, potentially influencing readers to view his project as a successful and inspiring endeavor.

The text evokes a range of emotions, primarily centered around inspiration, curiosity, and a sense of wonder. These emotions are carefully crafted to guide the reader's reaction and create a positive, uplifting tone.

Inspiration is a key emotion that permeates the story. Zhang's pursuit of his childhood dream, despite his age and lack of formal training, inspires admiration and a sense of possibility. The text highlights his determination and creativity, emphasizing that his invention is a testament to the power of ambition and the potential within each individual. This emotion is strongest when Zhang expresses his desire for others to have dreams and aspirations, which serves to motivate and encourage readers to pursue their own passions.

Curiosity is another prominent emotion, sparked by the unique nature of Zhang's project. The idea of a homemade submarine, especially one built by a farmer with no engineering background, piques the reader's interest. The text describes the submarine's maiden dive, a moment of anticipation and intrigue, leaving readers wanting to know more about this remarkable creation and its capabilities.

Wonder and awe are also evoked as the text describes the submarine's physical attributes and the process of its creation. The vessel's size, weight, and the relatively small cost of materials inspire a sense of marvel at Zhang's ingenuity and resourcefulness.

These emotions work together to create a narrative that is uplifting and engaging. The writer's choice of words, such as "gained attention," "inspired," and "sparked curiosity," adds an emotional layer to the story, making it more captivating and memorable. By focusing on Zhang's personal journey and his impact on the local community, the writer tells a human-interest story that resonates with readers on an emotional level.

The repetition of the word "dream" and the emphasis on Zhang's childhood interest are powerful tools to inspire and motivate. By personalizing the story and showing how Zhang's dream became a reality, the writer encourages readers to reflect on their own aspirations and the potential for self-fulfillment. This emotional appeal is a persuasive technique, as it motivates readers to consider the importance of pursuing their own passions and the impact they can have on their communities.

In summary, the text skillfully employs emotions to guide the reader's reaction, creating a narrative that is inspiring, curious, and filled with wonder. By focusing on Zhang's personal story and the impact of his invention, the writer crafts a persuasive message that motivates readers to embrace their dreams and appreciate the power of human ingenuity.