The problem concerning the identity of Laozi (Old Master), supposed author of the classic novel, is still unresolved, and even today there are various opinions held by Chinese scholars, supported by various arguments. The discovery of copies of Mawangdui (l Laozi silk cloth), and especially the oldest texts of Guodian (Lao zi bamboo slats) further stirred rough waters of controversy, and led to a new interpretation of the personality of the Old Master.