Farmer Luo Xiaoshan is unlucky in love.

A group of young intellectuals return to the city after the Cultural Revolution.

Ma Chenggang, a wealthy man in Xihong City, worries that his eldest son is too spoiled to succeed him. Determined to raise a capable successor, he takes an unconventional approach. They conceal their wealth, moving the family to a dilapidated neighborhood, and maintain an illusion of poverty, so that his son could develop qualities such as hard work, knowledge, careful budgeting, physical fitness, and perseverance.

The intricate and difficult life of a theatrical troupe actress with the stage name of Red Peony.