The origin of literature roots in the foundation of writing in the form of poetry, novel, stories, and prose, attempting to provide varying genres – either serving the purpose of enlightenment, entertainment, communication, information, or guidance.
Nonetheless, every piece of writing is not literature, such that the writing initiated from the ancient civilization of Sumer does not constitute literature. Similarly, the subsequent is true in some of the writings developed from the early Egyptian civilization and ancient Chinese era.
In comparison to the writings from other cultures, Chinese literature incorporates the formal language initiated by the Shang Dynasty from 1700 – 1050 BC, spanning the culture of Chinese literature for thousands of years. Perishable materials like silk, wood, and bamboo were used to write until the processes evolved, and papers were adopted during the era of the Han Dynasty. Through the traditional methods, the writings paved the access to a wider audience.
Emphasizing the classics of Chinese literature, the writings convey the language of enlightenment and wisdom, developing the interest of many. Historic Chinese literary includes philosophical, religious, poetry, fiction, and scientific writings that frame the history of dynasties in China.
Chinese literature comprises the written language distinct from the language usually spoken by the people – integrating the elements of classical and traditional. The written language used in literature was once spoken by various ethnic groups during the era of Qin, Zhou, and Han.
Chinese literature has gained limelight across the world – perfectly portraying the most imaginative stories on the basis of fictional content or illuminating knowledge through wise words. Likewise, one of the notable Canadian authors with entrenching roots in China, Victor Chi Wai Or, better known by Weide, has mastered the art of literature, including novels and short stories.
Weide’s upbringing has been in Hong Kong, a region of China. After 33 years of living in Hong Kong, in 1984, he migrated to the US to pursue his Bachelor’s in the domain of Arts, with a major in Film from the University of California, Berkley. In 1994, he pursued his postgraduation degree in Library and Information from the subsequent university.
After completing his studies, he moved to Canada to establish his permanent residence. Along with developing his career in literature, he worked as a Librarian at Surrey Public Library and at Vancouver Public Library until his retirement in the year 2023.
With immense interest in exploring the treasure of Chinese literature, Weide contributed his expertise before he began his higher education. In 1970, he started his career ladder by writing novels, which were published in Thumb Weekly.
The love for writing is showcased through various channels, including the writing piece as well as guiding others to strengthen the community. Hence, Weide’s passion impelled him to join the writer’s group initiated by Hong Kong Big Thumb. He also served as a columnist for many prestigious magazines, including Shuhua, Outside, and Hong Kong Times – before he moved to the US to pursue his higher education.
Moreover, Weide’s publications are displayed on the most prestigious digital media platforms – Apple Daily, Hong Kong Economic Journal, and Hong Kong Film Archive. While recently, his writings have been published by Hong Kong Literature, Taiwan Literary Monthly, City Literature and Arts, and Biezi Blog.
With the increasing probability of youth connecting with social media channels, the ratio to view the literature is higher. His publications are not just limited to magazines but on alternative platforms as well – both in Chinese and English. Therefore, to make the literature content widely available, Weide has posted his stories and novels on social media platforms.
Accessibility of the written literature in both languages creates a diverse audience, allowing many to access and understand Weide’s work. Nevertheless, the author has picked up the threads of historic Chinese literature in order to introduce people to the culture of China.
