Go back to the prosperous days and become a layman

Chapter 895 894 What the people are happy to see?

"How can I not be angry? You still have the mind to laugh? What should I do?" Xiao Wang knew that her husband's original intention was just to earn some writing fees, but she didn't expect it to cause trouble.

"We'll deal with whatever comes our way. Let me think." The situation was sudden, and Tang Zhitong quickly racked his brains. He first ruled out defending himself against the Wenyi Bao newspaper, as he had no connection with them and wouldn't be able to argue his case convincingly. They might even refuse to publish the article.

“If we ignore him, people will say we’re admitting it. If we respond, we’ll have to clarify the barefoot and market incidents. If we had known this would happen, we would have used pseudonyms when we wrote the song.” Xiao Wang spent the whole afternoon in the office thinking but couldn’t come up with a good solution. However, she preferred to respond; she couldn’t allow others to smear her husband like that.

"Haha, shall we use a pseudonym again from now on? Let me think about how to respond appropriately, and let's refute his claims as well." Although he didn't plan to enter the literary and artistic circles, Tang Zhitong had already enrolled in extracurricular tutoring classes, so he had to write a few more poems to earn back the tuition fees, right?
"How do I refute this? I've been thinking about it all afternoon, but I still can't come up with a solution. This person's angle of approach is too tricky. If the girl isn't wearing shoes, that's hard to explain. If we just say the countryside is poor, that's like mud falling into your pants—even if it's not poop, it's still poop."

Upon hearing this, Xiao Wang looked distressed. She wanted to refute it succinctly, but found herself at a loss for words.

"Hey, if you try to explain, you'll fall into a trap. You can't respond to the barefoot thing." Tang Zhitong chuckled. What Xiao Wang said was true, but he was also limited by his own perspective.

These days, it's common to go barefoot in the countryside, even college students sometimes go barefoot, it's nothing unusual. I wanted to write about a young girl wearing leather shoes, but does she have any?
Although everyone from top to bottom knows the truth, it's not appropriate to bring it up in public, at least not to be the one to point it out.

"No response? Then how do you refute it?" Seeing her husband's nonchalant tone, Xiao Wang asked curiously.

"Why respond to something that everyone already knows? Whether he's retaliating against us for not replying or trying to climb the social ladder by using our name, I can't accept it. Let's dig into this person's past and show everyone what kind of person he is."

Tang Zhitong had his own principles. He could curse in private letters however he wanted, but if he published it in the newspaper, he would fight to the death. This kid had a way of getting himself killed. Tang Zhitong tapped the letter asking for advice with his finger, intending to grant his wish.

As a young internet user, I've seen all sorts of crisis management, some masterpieces, some self-destructive.

To prove its innocence, a restaurant opened its kitchen to the public. However, less than a day later, the truth came out: the soybean oil was genetically modified, and the chicken in the freshly made chicken soup had vanished!

Look at Xuewang, which was criticized by the media for having half a stale lemon, but consumers exclaimed: It's not Xuewang's fault, we were just too late.

A three-yuan cup of lemonade uses fresh fruit, so what if it's been left overnight? Who hasn't eaten leftover watermelon from the fridge at home?

The same principle applies to songs. You buy a song for ten dollars and don't charge any copyright fees to those who listen to, learn, or sing it. Why are you making a big deal out of this with me?
"Shift the focus to him personally? Question his character? Make him lose his composure?" Xiao Wang's eyes lit up; he felt this was a good idea.

"That's roughly the idea." Opening blind boxes would be considered violent in the internet age and wouldn't be allowed, but since he's pointing his finger at us and cursing us, we don't need to be so restrained.

Isn't it just a way to step on others, to show how right he is, so he can climb up the ladder?
Okay, then let's reveal the contents of the letter he wrote to himself, so that readers can see what kind of person he really is.

Even if he later tries to justify himself by saying that he only sent the telegram after discovering problems with "The Little Girl Picking Mushrooms," thus breaking with his previous stance, Tang Zhitong isn't afraid; he has a backup plan.

Let's satisfy him for now and let him experience what it's like to be labeled.

"What about the market?" Xiao Wang wasn't completely at ease. When the song was first written, she had a vague feeling that there might be a problem. Markets in Beijing had been abolished for almost two years, but Tang Zhitong said that there were markets in the countryside, and that they were allowed, so she compromised.

"Hey, markets aren't allowed in the city, but that doesn't mean markets can't be in the countryside."

Last summer, the top leadership issued a document entitled "Instructions on Organizing Rural Market Trade," which clearly indicates a relaxation of restrictions.

This person's focus on the market perfectly illustrates that he hasn't gone to the grassroots level to investigate and has no understanding of the situation in rural areas.

Tang Zhitong was not at all hesitant when it came to the market.

At the beginning of this year, when Tang Zhitong took the train to Shangzhuangji, he met a small vendor and saw the "Industrial and Commercial Administration Bulletin" in his hands. After returning home, he has been subscribing to it ever since, and even bought the 59 bound edition.

By browsing those publications, Tang Zhitong discovered that rural areas outside Beijing were not as strictly regulated as those in the capital.

As early as the beginning of 59, Shantou Prefecture was the first to resume its market despite the pressure. Subsequently, many places began to restore free markets under the name of "People's Commune Trade Markets," allowing farmers to enter the market and trade at a premium.

The Administration for Industry and Commerce followed up promptly, held a special meeting in Guangzhou, affirmed their practices, and then promoted them.

Then came the directive from the highest level, marking the full opening up of rural markets.

After writing it, Tang Zhitong seriously considered the issue. Since the opening of the market was justified and mushrooms were not included in the scope of the unified purchase of goods, it was reasonable and legal to either eat them himself or sell them at the market.

I was too soft-hearted and changed "give me a few more lollipops" to "fruit candy." But what kind of fruit candy do you find in rural markets these days?

This change is undoubtedly a beautiful decoration; even fruit candies can appear in rural markets, directly bringing the work of the supply and marketing cooperatives to the forefront!
I just overestimated some people's intelligence. They were just criticizing for the sake of criticizing, without even checking whether the market was open. That's one of the reasons why they couldn't argue with me.

"There's one last question. The newspaper publishing his letter not only represents that someone has an opinion on the song, but also the newspaper's attitude. If we respond, will they publish it?" After hearing her husband's explanation, Xiao Wang felt much relieved.

“Hey, I never intended to respond in their newspaper. Let’s find another place to argue, no, let’s find another place to submit our response.” Tang Zhitong knew, of course, that there must be people in that newspaper who agreed with the article, otherwise it would never have been published.

The Hong Kong and county areas were more advanced; by this time, their newspapers had already developed the tactic of using verbal abuse to boost sales.

Regardless of whether the literary newspaper was trying to boost sales through verbal sparring or simply choosing sides, Tang Zhitong had no intention of giving in to their wishes.

"What insults? That's really awful." Xiao Wang laughed and nudged her husband. If she could submit the article according to her husband's wishes, then this matter would be over.

"Haha, do you know Editor Yang's phone number? I'll give her a call to express my gratitude." Tang Zhitong didn't care about any harsh words; she was more concerned about thanking Yang Lin. If Yang Lin hadn't tipped her off, she wouldn't have even known she was being scolded.

As for this short essay and the people behind it, Tang Zhitong didn't care.

After liberation, the status of artists was elevated to an unprecedented level. They went from being considered as lowly as prostitutes to becoming people's artists. Most of them were still dutiful and responsible, but some did not cherish it.

It just goes to show that in a big forest, you'll find all sorts of birds.

Of course, Xiao Wang knew Yang Lin's phone number, and immediately dialed it for her husband.

"Editor Yang? Hello, this is Tang Zhitong." Tang Zhitong held the phone and loudly introduced himself to Yang Lin.

"Hello, Teacher Tang, did you receive the letter?" Yang Lin was taken aback on the other end of the phone, remembering who Tang Zhitong was. After all, he was the lyricist and composer of two children's songs and "Athletes' March," and these songs were all very popular. Yang Lin addressed him with great respect.

"We received it. Thank you so much, Editor Yang. If it weren't for you, my husband and I would still be in the dark." Tang Zhitong's tone was relaxed, without revealing any anxiety to Yang Lin. "You're too kind, Teacher Tang. I'm still counting on you to continue submitting articles. We can't let others smear you." Perhaps Tang Zhitong's attitude influenced Yang Lin, as she also smiled easily on the other end.

However, Yang Lin was still somewhat worried. She was in charge of coordinating the production and broadcast of "The Little Girl Picking Mushrooms" with China National Radio. If the Literature and Art Daily were to define the two of them, then she and China National Radio would have to bear some responsibility.

"Submitting the song is definitely no problem. I'll definitely submit it to you first whenever I have a song in the future. But before that, I need to come and thank you in person." After this incident, Tang Zhitong's goodwill towards Yang Lin increased dramatically. In addition, given the limited production channels for songs at the moment, China National Radio became the best choice.

"Thank you for your trust, Professor Tang. There's no need for a personal visit to express my gratitude. Is there anything I can do to help you?" Yang Lin was very perceptive. At present, the Central Radio and Television Station had not yet decided how to handle this matter, but Yang Lin was inclined to believe that the other party was talking nonsense. Otherwise, she would not have written a letter in private. However, she had limited ability and no final say.

"Oh dear, that's really too kind of you. I'd like to look through the letters our listeners have written to us and see what their impressions of us are," Tang Zhitong said without any embarrassment, seizing the opportunity to make her request.

“Okay, these were originally written for you. When is Teacher Tang coming? I’ll arrange for someone to organize them.” Yang Lin readily agreed, as these letters were meant for the authors anyway, so it wasn’t against the rules.

"Are you free now?" Tang Zhitong glanced at his watch; there should still be enough time.

“Okay, I’ll go and tidy it up now.” Yang Lin readily agreed.

After hanging up the phone, Tang Zhitong slung her bag over her shoulder and headed to CNR. As she packed, she told Xiao Wang, "Go straight home after get off work. I might be back later."

"Okay, be careful on your way." Xiao Wang straightened her husband's shirt collar, looking every bit the devoted wife eagerly awaiting his triumphant return.

The young wife not only looks forward to her husband's triumphant return, but also wants to share his burdens.

After Tang Zhitong left, Xiao Wang packed his things and prepared to sneak off to find Director Ye.

Publishing a newspaper advocating for a verbal altercation is no small matter. Without someone mediating, very few newspapers would be willing to offend another newspaper, since they all make a living in the propaganda field and need to maintain a semblance of unity.

However, the couple tacitly skipped the part targeting the literary newspaper and focused all their anger on the author of that article, hoping to reduce the resistance.

After meeting Yang Lin, Tang Zhitong was not content with simply carrying the letter home. Instead, he took the opportunity to inquire about the situation from Yang Lin: "Editor Yang, is 'The Little Girl Picking Mushrooms' still airing?"

"It's still being broadcast. Many listeners have written to us specifically requesting that it be broadcast. As a radio station for the people, we must respect the opinions of the people." This is where Yang Lin's confidence comes from. As long as CNR continues to broadcast, this matter will not be so easily defined. It's just that the Wenyi Bao (Literary Gazette) has attached too much of a label to it, and we still need to consider the social impact and the opinions of our leaders.

"You're absolutely right! We must respect the people's opinions. How about this: before the broadcast, the host can mention how many listeners, including Comrade So-and-so, requested the song, and then announce what song will be played next. This would give listeners a sense of being valued and involved." Although the Tang family didn't have a radio, many workplaces now have loudspeakers, and Tang Zhitong often heard broadcasts on his way to and from school. The Central Radio and Television Station (CRTV) definitely lacked in this regard.

The fact that CNR is broadcasting itself represents their attitude to a certain extent. As long as they can leverage the CNR platform, there will always be a dual audience of newspapers and radio who will spontaneously write to the Literature and Art Daily to express their views.

Tang Zhitong felt that such a popular and well-received song would definitely have more supporters on his side.

Looking at the current public opinion environment, in this kind of matter, whoever they side with will win.

"Your suggestion is excellent!" Yang Lin's eyes lit up. As long as she pointed out how many people liked "The Little Girl Picking Mushrooms," she would definitely gain the upper hand in the conversation.

"Then I'll take my leave. Thank you for your help, Editor Yang." Having achieved his goal, Tang Zhitong planned to make his escape.

"Then I'll see you off. Teacher Tang, how do you plan to deal with this matter?" Yang Lin asked, almost as if she were asking a question, as she saw Tang Zhitong off and started walking away.

"Write something and find a newspaper to respond properly. It's not appropriate to remain silent." Tang Zhitong smiled, but did not reveal any specific plans. Although he had some affection for Yang Lin, the two were not yet at the point where they could talk about anything.

"How about I speak out too?" Yang Lin was aware of the policy trends, but the problem was how many people that article could attract to follow suit. She felt that she and Tang Zhitong were in the same boat, and she didn't want to see Tang Zhitong being labeled and herself being held accountable.

"That would be great, no trouble at all, right?" Tang Zhitong was happy to accept Yang Lin's help, but didn't want to owe her too many favors.

Actually, Tang Zhitong was never afraid of this report; he just felt it was a bit troublesome and unpleasant.

He felt he had enough buffs to get away unscathed just by showing the photo, but he didn't want to publicize it; he wanted to save it for a crucial moment later.

"It's no trouble at all. Just write more songs for CNR in the future." Whether it's "One Cent" or "The Little Girl Picking Mushrooms," the audience's response has been very enthusiastic, and Yang Lin's influence at work has also increased. She hopes that Tang Zhitong will support her with more works.

"No problem! I'll give you at least three this year." Tang Zhitong readily agreed. Creating (or plagiarizing) is no trouble at all!
“Okay! Then I’ll try publishing his last letter through the reader’s letter section.” Having made up her mind, Yang Lin no longer hesitated. In her opinion, the best way was to completely expose this person’s true colors to the audience. The audience might not know his real name, but people in the industry, including those from the literary newspaper, would definitely know.

Once you fire this first shot, the rest of the cards will be easier to play.

"Thank you, Editor Yang. Should I leave this letter with you?" Tang Zhitong smiled and reached into his pocket for the letter.

The letter was interesting; it went beyond the tone of normal communication. It said that we should learn and make progress together, but the wording made Tang Zhitong feel like he was being praised as someone who "sees the North Star when he looks up," and that the person was almost his life mentor.

The contrast between the arrogant tone and the obsequious manner in the newspaper article is nauseating.

"No need, I've already copied it down." Yang Lin smiled. Although she hadn't decided to do this before, she had a backup plan.

"Alright, I plan to categorize and analyze the letters to see how many people approve, how many request support, and how many criticize them." Since they were already in the same boat, Tang Zhitong revealed a little bit of his battle plan.

"That's a good idea. Send me a copy of the data later, and I'll try to announce it on the show." Now that she had decided to do it, Yang Lin was determined to go all out!
"Alright! I'll go back and sort it out tonight!" Tang Zhitong said, then gently shook hands with Yang Lin before carrying a half-sack of letters from listeners home.

"Didn't you come back with Wenwen?" Zhang Guifang heard the commotion in the yard and came out of the main house. Seeing her son alone, she was a little worried about her daughter-in-law.

"Oh, she might be held up by something. Mom, I have important business to attend to today. You can cook, I'll go back to my room to work for a while." Tang Zhitong pointed to the sack in his hand and asked his mother for leave.

Although Xiao Wang hadn't returned by the time he got off work, Tang Zhitong wasn't too worried, because he figured Xiao Wang must have gone to Chunshu Hutong to discuss ways to voice his opinions.

"Okay, business is more important." Upon hearing this, Zhang Guifang immediately let her son go.

Tang Zhitong smiled. Although he hadn't spoken yet, it felt good to have someone fighting alongside him. He felt that things were going well this time.

Back in the room, Tang Zhitong replaced the stuffy air with cool air, shivered, and felt all the hairs on his body relax. It felt incredibly refreshing.

After washing his hands, Tang Zhitong took out a pen and paper and wrote directly: "What the people like is something else, you think you're so great!"
(End of this chapter)