CYTC Outstanding Series: Writer-in-Residence, Famous Chinese Writer Dr. Ge Liang
Dr. Ge Liang is one of the most outstanding Chinese young writers and now teaching in the Chinese Department of Hong Kong Baptist University. Cheng Yu Tung College was honored to have him as Writer-in-Residence from 16th October to 20th October. During this period, he delivered a lecture and two fiction writing workshops, sharing his view on literature and literary creation with CYTC students.
On the evening of 19th October, his lecture Tradition and Modernity- Contemplation and Presentation of Literature, had 100 audience and was received with hearty round of applause. His innovative views on the tradition and history aroused students’ enthusiasm. Visible remains of ancient culture like old walls and traditional architectures were only part of tradition, as he pointed out, the attitude and mindset towards life should also be highlighted. He suggested readers could have an insight into the history and culture of cities like Beijing and Taipei through literary works. The discussion went further during the question-and-answer section, covering topics about history and modernity, writing and film making, etc. Many students stayed and exchanged opinions with Ge Liang after the lecture, saying that it was a really fruitful experience.
The workshops were also successful. During fiction writing workshops, Ge Liang tutored 12 young student‘s literary works carefully and exchanged opinions with them. He prepared a lecture on plot setting and characterization for further discussion. His sharing was unconventional and helpful. In addition, his erudition, sense of humor and affable manner truly impressed students a lot.
Dr. Ge Liang is a celebrated novelist as well as a pioneering inter-disciplinary researcher. A talented creative writer, Dr. Ge has published a total of 12 books and obtained 10 literary awards. He has been named one of the “Best 20 Sinophone Writers under 40” by Unitas, one of the most authoritative Chinese literary magazines. He has also won the much esteemed First Prize of “The Unitas Fiction Writer’s Prize of Taiwan”.
(Mio Sanfong, Huang Qihua)