Other realities and other universes materialize at literary week

Science fiction is fast gaining popularity among Chinese readers. [Photo by Gao Erqiang/China Daily]

Science fiction was featured at this year's International Literary Week, a key part of the annual Shanghai Book Fair.

Thirty-one authors and scholars from home and abroad took part in the festival, signing books, giving speeches and participating in discussion panels on the literary genre which is gaining more popularity in China.

Ye Xin, a deputy chairman of the China Writers' Association, said that a number of Chinese authors have gained international recognition in science fiction writing in recent years.

During the Literary Week, Chinese author Chen Qiufan spoke about his experiences in participating in the annual Worldcon, which is organized by the World Science Fiction Society, since 1939.

"I saw how people could be much more passionate about the fantasy world, such as the one that was created by George RR Martin, than the real world," he said.

Chen said that to regard the world we live in as the one and only reality is to dispel and belittle any other possibilities of reality and values.

"We seem to forget reality is a plural noun and there are innumerous parallel universes out there. Science fiction and fantasy allows people to enter a common reality and share their emotions. There is so much power and magic in here," he said.

Today's world is filled with changes and uncertainty and everyone is constantly worried about whether his or her reality will be part of the future, added Chen.

"With the power of words and imaginations, we can fill the gaps between different realities, pacify fears and worries, and inspire emotional resonance in this age of technology. Literature is not forgotten. On the contrary, it will glow and bloom to be a guiding star. It's time to redefine the realities," he said.