“At the Turn of Spring”: Diaspora and the Future in Chinese-Language Writing

In an era of deepening globalization and multicultural integration, Chinese-language literature serves not only as a rich carrier of Chinese cultural heritage but also as a vital bridge connecting diverse cultures and ideas. For overseas Chinese writers, the challenge lies in maintaining their cultural identity while balancing literary traditions and innovative ideas in a rapidly changing world.

The Renwen Society at China Institute is pleased to host a lecture by Liu Qian, a young writer based in the U.S., on December. Liu will explore how Chinese-language writing addresses the unique role of contemporary Chinese literature in a globalized, multi-context landscape.

As a Gen Z writer living in the U.S., Liu Qian has embraced Chinese as her language of literary expression, striving to explore, preserve, and enrich the cultural foundations of Chinese literature. Her studies in comparative literature and multilingual learning have broadened her academic horizons and deepened her connection to her cross-cultural identity. For Liu, Chinese is more than just a language—it is a reflection of cultural identity, a bridge to global literary traditions, and a mirror that invites self-reflection.

The lecture will delve into Liu Qian’s writing journey, examining the endless longing and emotional complexity faced by overseas Chinese. Liu will share her personal experiences of studying and living abroad, shedding light on the unique challenges and opportunities that come with it. Through her story, she aims to reflect the shared struggles and lesser-known emotional journeys of the Chinese diaspora.

Additionally, the lecture will explore how young Chinese writers confront the impact of global cultures, building on the legacy of predecessors like Bai Xianyong and Zhang Ailing, to redefine and enrich the meaning of Chinese-language literature. Liu will discuss how they continue to explore the unique significance and value of Chinese writing within world literature, offering fresh perspectives and innovative ideas.