Chinese author addresses cultural differences

A new window

Just as Western literature once influenced Chinese writers like Bi, Chinese literature is now making its mark in the West. Two of Bi's novels have been translated into English and two others into French, German and Spanish.

But Bi plays down his international achievements. He is convinced that Chinese authors are receiving international recognition because China's fast-growing economy is attracting global attention and creating curiosity about Chinese culture.

"I don't think the Chinese literature of today is necessarily better than it was 30 years ago, but there is more international interest in it because people want to understand China and its literature because it is a good way to understand its culture. I think Chinese authors should not pretend that it is their works that are gaining popularity."

He does, though, acknowledge the new opportunities for Chinese authors as a result of the increasing curiosity about China.

"A few decades ago it seemed like the international literary scene only had space for a few Chinese authors, but there is easily space for 20, 30 or even 40 today."

Since 2012, when China was featured as the country of market focus at the London Book Fair, a lot of work has been done to promote the works of Chinese authors to the world.

One example is the new bi-annual magazine Chinese Arts & Letters launched at the fair this year by Phoenix Publishing & Media Group, which has translated some of the works by Bi and his contemporaries into English.

This kind of opportunity has opened a new window in the Western world for Chinese literature, but Bi advises younger Chinese authors to be patient.

"My advice for them is to focus on writing good works, and not to become big-headed just because one's work receives publicity and recognition from Western media and audiences. The best communication is done in a calm manner."