From May 28 to 29, the Guangdong leg of the 2nd Journey of ASEAN Young Writers in China concluded in Guangzhou.

Twenty-five ASEAN delegates and twenty Chinese writers deepened their dialogue at Jinan University during a lecture themed "Aesthetic Features of Chinese Literature." This event enhanced mutual understanding and sparked fresh literary inspiration as Professor Jiang Shuzhuo, a renowned scholar of Chinese literary aesthetics, delivered an illuminating lecture dissecting the artistic depth of China's literary canon.

Professor Jiang Shuzhuo delivered a lecture dissecting Chinese literature at Jinan University

Vietnamese poet Nguyen Trong Thang, a member of the Hanoi Writers' Association, highlighted the profound cultural ties between Vietnam and China. "Vietnam's traditional culture has many origins connected to Chinese culture. The two are closely linked," he noted. Reflecting on his early exposure to Chinese classics like Tang poetry and Li Sao (The Lament), he shared, "I copied Li Sao word for word before I even understood Chinese. Studying it later moved me deeply—it left a strong impression."

Thai writer Gassanee Thaisonthi, an executive committee member of Thailand's Soft Power Special Group, found renewed motivation in Professor Jiang's insights. "His lecture inspired me to study these classics more deeply," she said. "Understanding China's cultural DNA through works like Dream of the Red Chamber will help Thailand and China collaborate meaningfully in the future."

Writers from Thailand receive a gift from Chinese delegates

Delegates also visited the Bai'etan Greater Bay Area Art Center, home to Guangdong's Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum and Modern Literature Museum.

Delegates visit the Bai'etan Greater Bay Area Art Center in Guangzhou

Filipino-Chinese novelist Chua Wesley Ang, executive editor of Chinese Commercial News, described the experience as "spectacular." "Seeing historical Lingnan literary figures gathered in one space was enriching. Guangdong's legacy of scholars is legendary, and this visit added layers to my perspective," he remarked. Ang emphasized bridging gaps: "I hope more Filipino mainstream writers visit China to appreciate its literary landscape firsthand."

Writers from ASEAN countries tour the Guangdong Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum

For Cambodian children's author Nguon Sivngim, Vice-President of the Cambodian Writers' Association, the journey resonated personally. Tracing her roots to Chaozhou immigrants in Cambodia, she said, "Though I never met my grandparents, their heritage flows in my blood." Her upcoming book will weave in Chinese influences, from childhood paper-cutting memories to beloved dishes.

The event underscored shared cultural foundations while illuminating new pathways for collaboration. As Thang poignantly concluded, "This trip is unforgettable—it's a milestone in our lives." With creativity ignited and bonds strengthened through exchanges like Professor Jiang's lecture, the event promises to ripple across ASEAN-China literary horizons.

Photo | Guo Zedong