Yan Lianke, a notable Chinese writer, explores themes of suffering and truth in his works, particularly highlighting the emptiness felt by soldiers during the Chinese Revolution. His book, Dream of Ding Village, reveals the hidden HIV/AIDS epidemic while contrasting the happiness experienced by some in Chinese society. Lianke has faced backlash for addressing such painful realities in his literature, which challenges the typically glorifying narratives in Chinese writing. He acknowledges the price of honesty in his storytelling, advocating for a direct engagement with the truth despite potential consequences.
"In China, people were experiencing the happiness of development... Many people were unaware that others were suffering from the AIDS epidemic, which is what the book portrays."
"There was very little literature that paid attention to the problems we were facing... That's why Chinese readers found Dream of Ding Village so incredible."
"I push myself to do my best to tell the truth. I believe that if you can't tell the truth, at the very least, you shouldn't tell lies."
"Being a controversial writer has consequences: not being able to publish in China... I take solace in the fact that I do what I think is right."
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