Acclaimed Chinese novelist Mai Jia, celebrated as the pioneer of modern espionage fiction, recently revealed how literature became his bridge to personal healing and global dialogue during an exclusive interview. The author of international bestsellers like Decoded and The Message shared intimate reflections on overcoming childhood tensions through storytelling.
"The day I became willing to write about my hometown was, in itself, a reconciliation," Mai told CGTN, emphasizing how confronting personal history through fiction allowed him to process complex emotions. His journey mirrors broader themes of conflict resolution, resonating with readers across 42 translated editions worldwide.
Mai advocates for literary exchange as an antidote to global tensions: "Words reach the most sensitive parts of human hearts. When we recognize our limitations through stories, we learn humility – and that should reduce conflicts." This philosophy aligns with his intricate spy novels that blend cultural nuance with psychological depth.
As cross-cultural misunderstandings persist, Mai's works demonstrate how literature can foster empathy between East and West. His upcoming project, hinted during the interview, promises to further explore themes of identity and reconciliation in an increasingly interconnected world.
