Sanmao. 3

Author: Zhang Leping
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-07-01
Features: Sanmao was a figure from a decade ago. Logically, she should have grown into a more impressive person by now. However, I still draw Sanmao, and I still draw the old Sanmao. The reason is that I feel her living environment has remained unchanged over the decade. Ten years ago, Sanmao picked up trash and slept on the streets. Ten years later, she shows no improvement. The only slight difference in her spirit is that the later Sanmao starts to act like an adult, making a living on the streets, smoking American cigarettes, and shouting "Hello, Joe." Since Sanmao has so many problems, I feel she can never be fully drawn or written about.
"Joining the Army" was a fresh and engaging topic a few years ago, but after eight or nine years, it has become a monotonous old theme. It's natural that playing an old tune wouldn't please people. However, considering that everyone, young and old, joined the army in those eight years, it would be unreasonable for Sanmao not to participate. So, regardless of whether she qualified or not, I decided to have her sign up for the army. Out of impulse, the story is full of flaws. For example, in terms of Sanmao's age, joining the army isn't entirely reasonable. If I exaggerate it, it becomes inhumane. If I say she lacks courage, it also contradicts the essence of joining the army. Therefore, it's difficult to properly place this character in the military camp. Out of desperation, I had to portray Sanmao as a clown.
Over the years, what has always made me feel sad is that, whether intentionally or unintentionally, I've drawn an innocent Sanmao as a clown-like character. Although Sanmao has many problems, the responsibility doesn't lie with her. I draw Sanmao every day, and every day, I discover her stubborn flaws. Therefore, my hope for Sanmao's living environment to improve is particularly strong.