Writer 1978: I Need to Give the Literary World a Lesson

Chapter 442 Loyal Paris Welcomes Its Honorary Citizens
In the 80s, a wave of opposition to the apartheid policy implemented by the South African government began to sweep across the world. Parliaments in countries such as Britain and France also called on their members to raise their hands in support of Mandela and do their part to help him get out of prison.

Mandela was in prison, but his health concerned countless people. With each additional year he spent in prison over his decades there, his image as a "fighter for democracy" became more solidified.

When the other party arrived with the letter, Liu Yimin didn't mind doing his "small favor."

Upon hearing Liu Yimin's words, the reporter looked at him excitedly: "Professor Liu, you are also a great fighter for democracy. You have made the plight of Black people known to more people. May I report your words?"

“Yes, I will write another letter to Mr. Mandela. He can listen to the radio, right? You can read it to him on the radio.”

The reporter readily agreed, and Liu Yimin took out a pen, thought for a moment, and began to write.

Mr. Mandela:

Although you have lost your freedom, countless South Africans will gain permanent freedom. Shameful racial policies will eventually disappear, and the people of South Africa will finally bask in the sunshine of equality.

The shameful will die, but the great souls will be remembered by history. The struggle for freedom will not stop because of sacrifices; on the contrary, it will inspire the courage of countless black South Africans.

The valiant warriors raised their spears, piercing the mask of hypocrisy, tearing down the wall of racial segregation; this world will make hypocrites tremble.

The reporter left excitedly with the letter, while Marcelo Danny looked puzzled when he saw the black man visiting, but didn't think much of it.

In the morning, they went to a French bookstore together to observe the French market. Marseille Dani led Liu Yimin to the bookstore's special section and said with a smile, "We will plan the books in a unified way, which will help increase sales."

Lu Tongliu picked up a novel and began to read it, marveling at the sophistication of Western printing technology.

A reader next to him glanced at the photo on the poster, then at Liu Yimin, and couldn't help but ask, "Are you Liu?"

Liu Yimin smiled and nodded. The other person excitedly handed the book to Liu Yimin and asked him to sign it.

"Thank you for your kind words. What's your name?"

"Tajimi!"

“Oh, you’re beautiful, Tajimi!” Liu Yimin signed a “TO” signature for her—“Liu Yimin presents this to Tajimi”.

"This is Chinese, is this my name?"

"Correct."

Tajimi excitedly hugged Liu Yimin's neck and kissed him: "Liu, welcome to romantic Paris."

This scene left Lü Tongliu completely stunned. Was this romance? Or was it just recklessness?

After being recognized by Tajimi, several readers immediately surrounded him. Liu Yimin quickly finished signing and was then taken away by Massey Dani.

Afterwards, we visited several more bookstores. Liu Yimin's books were all in the most prominent positions. No one could ignore the huge award posters when passing by the bookstore entrance.

In the afternoon, Liu Yimin attended a meeting between Chinese and French writers at the Paris PEN Center. The writers who came this time were similar to those he had met last time.

Perec, who had clashed with Liu Yimin before, smiled and said, "Liu, I am always happy for you whenever I hear about your literary achievements in France. Last time you came to France, you were under the guidance of Mr. Ba Jin, and now you are sitting here representing Chinese writers."

“Mr. Perek, you flatter me. I have only made a small contribution to literature. World literature should be diverse, and the world's literary focus should be on Eastern literature. The collision between ancient Eastern civilization and modern civilization will surely give rise to better and better literary works,” Liu Yimin said.

“Come on, let’s applaud the friendship between Chinese and French literature,” said another French writer.

As the event was drawing to a close, a French journalist asked, "Professor Liu, why are you so concerned about the fate of Black people in Africa?"

“I am not concerned about the fate of Black Africans, I am concerned about the fate of all humanity. The fate of Black Africans is a microcosm of the suffering endured by people in colonies around the world for centuries. Some races have been wiped out, and we should take action,” Liu Yimin said.

"Professor Liu, I have another question. Do you think you have a chance to win the Prix Goncourt or the Prix Nationale des Libre in France?"

Liu Yimin joked, "This is not something I should be thinking about; it should be something the award committee should be thinking about. Writers should only think about how to write books and how to accurately reflect real life."

The meeting ended in a harmonious atmosphere, without the previous difficulties. As everyone prepared to disperse, several reporters suddenly rushed in through the door, identified their target, and swarmed around Liu Yimin.

"Professor Liu, I'd like to ask why you think Mandela should be released?"

Why did you make such a statement?

"Is this a manifestation of your literary ideas in the political arena?" The reporters asked all at once, leaving everyone except Liu Yimin, the person involved, completely bewildered.

After one of the reporters explained the situation to the crowd, everyone understood what had happened.

Liu Yimin said to the reporter, "Why was Mr. Mandela released? It's simple, because he was innocent. I pay my highest respects to those who support national independence, freedom, and equality."

As for whether this reflects my literary ideas in the political sphere, I believe this is not a political issue, but rather a matter of morality and ethics.

The writers and journalists present applauded wildly, moved by Liu Yimin's courageous advocacy for ethnic equality and freedom.

"I believe that colonizers must realize that they have committed an original sin against their colonies and should do their best to make up for the losses suffered by the colonies. There is a Chinese saying that actions speak louder than words; no matter how well you talk, it is better to do well."

Everyone, including those present here, should reflect on what they have done, what they are doing, and what they intend to do in the future!

After Liu Yimin left the academic hall, the staff of the French publishing house immediately handed the newspaper to Marseille Dani, who, along with Feng Wen from the embassy, ​​translated the contents of the newspaper for Liu Yimin.

"Several major French evening newspapers have reported it, and it's foreseeable that this news will be all over the major newspapers tomorrow," Feng Wen said.

Feng Wen looked anxious and wanted to rush back to the embassy to report, but he felt that the embassy must have received the news by now.

Back at the embassy, ​​the ambassador appeared more relaxed and said to Liu Yimin, "Comrade Liu Yimin, you're about to become the most influential Chinese writer in France. This news will likely be reported by many European countries."

Liu Yimin told the ambassador about Mandela writing him a letter, and the ambassador suddenly realized: "That reporter who came to see you today was talking about this! You've been running around all day, you must be tired, go back and rest!"

Liu Yimin and Lü Tongliu returned to the hotel. Lü Tongliu said happily, "Comrade Yimin, you are more popular in France than the giant pandas in our country. I heard that giant pandas are always surrounded by crowds when they go abroad."

"This is far from what you'd call a sea of ​​people," Liu Yimin said modestly.

After sending Liu Yimin back to his hotel, Massey Dani from the publishing house rushed back to the company. He keenly realized that Liu Yimin's novel sales would double again.

When Massey Dani returned to the company, the editorial director was already waiting for him in the office. The director shouted, "This is a great marketing campaign, God! Any advertising agency in France pales in comparison to Liu."

"Rambo, this isn't a marketing ploy; it's a genuine expression of emotion. Please don't use vulgar money to smear my author. He's a young writer with literary ideals," Massey Dani said with disgust.

The director wasn't offended by Massey-Dani's words; as he said, nobody holds a grudge against francs. Massey-Dani was currently one of the highest-performing editors in the department, and the director treated him with considerable respect.

"We monitor market data and are ready to adjust inventory at any time to ensure that there is sufficient stock in all markets, especially in South Africa."

The following day, Liu Yimin had no scheduled activities in Paris; he only needed to wait until the afternoon to go to the airport and board a plane to Italy.

French newspapers and television are publishing news of Liu Yimin condemning the South African government and calling for the release of Mandela. In addition, there are three questions Liu Yimin posed to reporters, which are used as headlines in the newspapers.

What have you done? What are you doing now? What are your plans for the future?

After putting down the newspaper, Liu Yimin received numerous calls from publishing companies. These companies were all publishing companies that Liu Yimin collaborated with in Europe. They all wanted Liu Yimin to hold reader meet-and-greets with them to boost sales and offered generous appearance fees.

After receiving the award on March 10th, Liu Yimin only stayed in Italy for two days, until the 12th, which was still some time before the award ceremony in the United States. He called Massey Dani and asked him to form a team to communicate with the other publishers and arrange a European speaking tour.

“Just a few key locations will do, and there’s also the visa issue,” Liu Yimin quickly communicated with Ma Sai Dani.

Marseille Dani readily agreed and even planned to take advantage of the situation to get Liu Yimin to give two more speeches in France.

"Danny, make sure to arrange things properly," Liu Yimin instructed again.

Marseille Dani smiled and said, "Liu, we're friends, and I'll make the most reasonable arrangements. Also, there's something else I need to tell you: the Paris Parliament is holding a vote today, and the vote concerns you."

"What does this have to do with me?" Liu Yimin retorted.

"Yes, there is an honorary citizenship in Paris, which is a symbol of goodwill and is awarded to individuals or groups who have made outstanding contributions in fields such as literature and science. You have made important contributions to Sino-French cultural exchanges, and I think the parliament will vote to approve it."

This wasn't a spur-of-the-moment decision; it must have been brewing for some time.

Liu Yimin said nonchalantly, "Then let's wait for the voting results."

After hanging up with Dani Marseille, Liu Yimin informed the embassy of his upcoming speaking tour across Europe. "Speaking tour? My goodness, Comrade Yimin, you're truly ambitious and capable!" Ambassador Cao exclaimed, then asked Liu what topics he would be discussing so he could prepare in advance.

"Literature, environmental protection, and cultural relic protection."

After listening, Ambassador Cao had no further concerns and praised, "These are things we can talk about at length. Westerners are always talking about environmental protection and cultural relic protection. We can talk about them too. If we don't talk about them, they will talk about them for us."

We clearly did something, but they say we didn't. We're like a mute eating bitter herbs—we can't complain!

"Also, I heard from the publishing house that the Paris City Council is voting to elect me as an honorary citizen? Have you heard about that?"

"Haha, I was just about to tell you that the publisher is even more well-informed than we are. Let's wait and see, the results should be out soon."

At noon, the Paris Parliament announced the results of its vote via radio and television to the citizens of Paris, declaring that loyal Paris would welcome a new resident.

The city hall staff quickly found Liu Yimin and asked him if he would accept the title of honorary citizen of Paris.

"Liu, based on your schedule, we would like to invite you to attend the honorary citizenship awarding ceremony hosted by the City Council on March 13th, and we hope you will give a speech at the council." A staff member from the City Hall handed Liu Yimin an elegant invitation.

Ambassador Cao, who was standing next to Liu Yimin, looked at him and nodded slightly.

“Okay, I’ll be there on time!” Liu Yimin said.

The other person extended their hand and said, "A distinguished citizen will soon be joining us on the banks of the Seine. On behalf of the people of Paris, I extend my warmest welcome to you."

"Thank you."

After the other party left quickly, the ambassador said, "As an honorary citizen of Paris, one still has the right to participate in politics to a certain extent!"

"I'm not interested in France's internal affairs," Liu Yimin said, shaking his head.

Ambassador Cao smiled and said, "France is a major power in Europe. Europe is currently exploring integration. If it succeeds in the future, France will definitely have the main say. I hope that you can contribute to the friendship between China and France at that time."

"To some extent, it is not so important whether France can have a voice in Europe; what is more important is whether Europe can have a voice in the world."

At 3 p.m., Liu Yimin and Lü Tongliu took off from Paris Airport, heading to Italy.

Lu Tongliu was eager to prove himself; the time had finally come. During his day and a half in Paris, Lu Tongliu felt like he was in a whirlpool; a lot had happened, but he felt like he hadn't accomplished anything.

After getting off the plane in Rome, I saw the award committee staff holding up signs.

Liu Yimin walked over quickly and greeted the other party through Lü Tongliu.

After reading Liu Yimin's invitation, the other party happily extended his hand and said welcome. Then, another man in a gray suit, with a slender build, walked over and said loudly, "Welcome, young writer from the East."

Looking at the other person, Lü Tongliu felt a strong sense of familiarity and asked in Italian, "May I ask what your relationship is with Calvino?"

"I am Italo Calvino, and who are you?"

Liu Yimin grasped Calvino's hand and said, "This is a famous Italian literature translator in our country. He really likes your work."

Seeing that Lü Tongliu was very agitated, Liu Yimin coughed to remind him.

“Hello, Lü, welcome. Liu, I am honored to serve as the chairman of the jury for this year’s Nonino International Literary Prize. To be honest, we were very conflicted when voting, and we were afraid of causing controversy,” Calvino said.

"why?"

"Because there are too few Chinese writers in the international literary field. Apart from some older writers, we know nothing about most of the young writers."

That's a very tactful way of putting it.

"I hope you haven't made the wrong choice. I'm really looking forward to this trip to Italy."

"Now it seems we made the right choice!"

Calvino looked radiant at that moment, showing no signs of his impending death.

On the way back to the hotel with Liu Yimin, Calvino told him about the news he had heard in Italy, which was nothing more than Liu Yimin's appeal to Mandela in France and the news of Paris granting Liu Yimin honorary residency.

France and Italy are neighbors, and some French newspapers are distributed throughout Europe, so it wasn't surprising that he saw them.

Upon arriving at the hotel, Calvino said, "There's a dinner party at nine o'clock tonight, Liu. I wonder if you could attend?"

"Okay." Liu Yimin checked the time; it wasn't even seven o'clock yet.

This hotel is known for its retro style, with a strong Roman historical atmosphere combined with modern technology, and its high-end level left Lü Tongliu speechless.

Liu Yimin said to him, "The Nonino family started out making brandy, so they are naturally not short of money."

"I wonder how much the prize money is." Lü Tongliu chuckled.

Liu Yimin smiled but didn't say anything. He went into the room, took a shower, lay down and dozed off for a while, and then changed into clean clothes.

Put your old clothes in a laundry bag; the hotel offers a dedicated laundry service.

At 8:30, the award committee's car was waiting at the door on time. It was a brand-new BMW sedan, purchased by the award committee as the official car for the winner of the literary prize. The car was decorated with the Nonino Literary Prize logo.

Lü Tongliu marveled at the extravagance of the Nonino Literary Prize as the two of them strolled through the Rome nightscape in the car.

Among those attending the dinner were renowned Italian writers and recipients of the Nonino Prize for Literature from Italy.

The car came to a smooth stop outside a villa, which was brightly lit and filled with the logo of the Nonino Literary Prize and the Nonino family's grappa brandy.

As the name suggests, lees brandy is made from the lees of winemakers through distillation. Originally a low-end wine, the Nonino family tried various ways to upgrade it, and sponsoring literary awards was one of the important ways to do so.

As soon as I got out of the car, the reporters' cameras started flashing incessantly.

Calvino walked over with a group of people and introduced them to Liu Yimin one by one. The bearded man was the writer Eco, and Dario Fo was the one most interested in Liu Yimin.

Dario is a writer and playwright who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1997. He had read Liu Yimin's plays and had a strong interest in Liu Yimin even before Liu Yimin arrived.

"Hello, Liu, I hope you have a wonderful and unforgettable time in Italy," Dario said, putting his arm around Liu Yimin's shoulder.

Stepping into the banquet hall, the various chandeliers made the villa appear magnificent, and together with the surrounding decorations, it felt like being in old Rome.

Italy has never forgotten the glory of its ancestral Rome!
"This is Eliza Beta, the chairperson of the foundation."

Eliza Beta is a member of the Nonino family. She has blonde hair and wears a sexy white dress. She is around forty years old.

"Liu, welcome to our guest from afar. You are the first recipient of our International Literature Prize since we decided to establish it last year. We extend our highest respect to you. Liu, you are a very elegant young writer. Please try our brandy; it's one I'm testing." Eliza clinked her glass against Liu Yimin's.

Liu Yimin raised his glass in acknowledgment, then took a sip: "Mmm, it's very delicious."

"What's so good about it?" Eliza asked curiously.

"Fortunately, this is a toast of friendship, Mrs. Eliza. I thank you for your welcome."

Eliza smiled and said, "Cheers to friendship."

Lü Tongliu was well-versed in Italian literature, which played a significant role in communicating with the guests at the banquet. Often, after Liu Yimin uttered just a few words, Lü Tongliu would know what aspects Liu Yimin was going to discuss, making the translation very smooth.

Dario Fo walked over and said, "Liu, how is your teacher—the Shakespeare of the East—doing now?"

“My teacher is in good health and still maintains a strong creative desire, but he will focus more on the training of drama talents. He believes that the future of Chinese drama is far more important than his personal achievements.”

Dario said admiringly, “He is a great playwright, and I will continue to learn from him. Your work is also very good, with a Chinese flavor.”

“We have come to know China through your works. 'The Smoke of War in Beiping,' 'The Kite Runner,' 'Mountains High and Rivers Long,' and 'Red River Valley' all depict the suffering, conquest, and resistance that China has endured over the past few centuries. From these works, we can see that Chinese civilization is one that never gives up.”

(End of this chapter)