Gum Life

Author: Zhao Bo
Publisher:
Publication Date: 2002-08-01
Features: Zhao Bo is somewhat like Wong Kar-Wai in the realm of fiction. She is simple like Wong Kar-Wai but lacks his pretentiousness. No need to ask—it is the chaotic and bustling metropolis that belongs to her, nourished by the dust and light of the city. Shi Kang, young and inexperienced in life, has not touched deeper, more painful aspects. Yet, this is also her advantage—free from preconceptions, pure, and she does not inappropriately amplify her emotions but remains faithful to her observations. Wang Anyi writes in a composed and manner in the novel "Years Without a Trace" published in "Shanghai Literature," like tea in an old pot, needing no coffee shop to adorn it. Chen Cun's "Life of chewing gum" and "Talk of a vitamin love" are sister novels, accumulating Zhao Bo's creative efforts over the past decade. "Life of chewing gum" primarily depicts the street life of ordinary people. In this collection of novels, Zhao Bo uses her unique brushwork to touch on aspects often overlooked by younger generation writers. The writing is warm and heartwarming. In "A heart full of kindness," the siblings seek warmth and support from each other; in "The life of Mr. He," the protagonist is solely focused on others. Reading this collection of novels will make you think of your own life and past friends, and it may even make you cry.