Murong Xuecun Quotes

#1. Literature is not at the service of the government; on the contrary, governments should do everything in their power to create a favourable climate for literature.

Murong Xuecun

#2. The only truth is that we cannot speak the truth . The only acceptable viewpoint is that we cannot express a viewpoint.

Murong Xuecun

#3. Now, after I have published a few books, I can clearly feel the impact of censorship when I write. For example, I'll think of a sentence, and then realize that it will for sure get deleted. Then I won't even write it down.

Murong Xuecun

#4. Actually, I am a coward. I say only what is safe to say, and I criticise only what is permissable to criticise.

Murong Xuecun

#5. Because at this time, in this place, Chinese writing exhibits symptoms of a mental disorder.

Murong Xuecun

#6. Genuine bravery for a writer ... It is about calmly speaking the truth when everyone else is silenced, when the truth cannot be expressed. It is about speaking out with a different voice, risking the wrath of the state and offending everyone, for the sake of the truth, and the writer's conscience.

Murong Xuecun

#7. It is difficult to call myself a writer, even when I stand at a podium to receive a prize, I feel uncomfortable calling myself a writer - I am merely a word criminal.

Murong Xuecun