Food Delivery Rider Wins Prestigious Chinese Literary Award
Ninoda.com – Wang Jibing, a 56-year-old food delivery worker, has become the latest voice in China’s literary scene after his collection of poems, *Low Flight*, claimed the Lu Xun Literary Prize. This honor, named after the revered writer often called the father of modern Chinese literature, recognizes works that capture the essence of everyday life. Wang’s poems, many penned during breaks between deliveries, have now earned him one of the nation’s most esteemed accolades.
From Odd Jobs to Poetic Recognition
Wang’s journey began with a series of manual labor jobs, including construction work and street vending, before he joined the gig economy around 2019. Despite financial struggles, he never stopped reading, and over the past decade, he has shared his writings on social media platforms. His breakthrough came in 2022 when a poem titled *Man in a Hurry* gained widespread attention online, inspired by a frustrating delivery incident in 2019 where a customer provided an incorrect address.
“I held my breath and felt extremely nervous… Once it was revealed, everything was settled,” Wang said in a July 15 interview with Global Times, reflecting on the moment he learned of his win. He also noted the mental strain of media scrutiny, though he remains committed to his work.
Wang’s first poetry collection, *Man in a Hurry: Poems of a Food Delivery Rider*, was published in 2023. The anthology, which includes *Low Flight*, draws from interviews and surveys with nearly 200 delivery riders, offering a poignant look at their challenges. His poem *Who says spreading your wings means flying high? Flying low is also flying* has become a favorite among readers, capturing the resilience of those navigating China’s fast-paced delivery networks.
Blue-Collar Voices Resonate in Literature
Wang’s success is part of a broader trend where working-class individuals are finding new expression in writing. In 2023, a memoir titled *I Deliver Parcels in Beijing* by former courier Hu Anyan topped Chinese bestseller lists and sparked global interest. An English translation of the book was released last year, further amplifying its reach. Similarly, Fan Yusu’s autobiographical essay *I am Fan Yusu* went viral in 2017, highlighting the struggles of migrant workers and drawing attention to their personal stories.
Wang, who plans to continue working until he reaches 60, emphasized that the award does not alter his lifestyle. “Financially I don’t need this job to survive, but I love the rhythm of it and the way it keeps me active,” he told Global Times. “I want a simple life, and the prize will never redefine who I am.”
Legacy of Lu Xun and Modern Resonance
Named after Lu Xun, a 20th-century literary giant known for his satirical critiques of traditional society, the prize has long symbolized cultural depth. His character Kong Yiji, featured in a novel, recently resurfaced as a meme representing disillusionment among China’s youth. This revival underscores how Lu Xun’s works continue to inspire contemporary discussions about societal pressures and aspirations.
Wang’s achievement highlights the growing intersection between labor and literature, as stories from everyday workers gain recognition in an increasingly competitive cultural landscape. His collection, *Low Flight*, published in 2024, stands as a testament to the power of personal narrative in shaping national discourse.
