The speaker was inspired by the collective emotional wounds left by the pandemic and the subsequent economic downturn. They wanted to explore how literature, particularly the works of Shi Tiesheng, could address these wounds. The documentary also serves as a personal journey to understand the impact of external forces on individual lives and the role of literature in providing solace and meaning.
Qingpingwan represents a spiritual and emotional anchor for Shi Tiesheng. It was in Qingpingwan that he began to reflect deeply on his life and the world around him, influenced by the stark contrast between urban and rural life. This reflection became a cornerstone of his later philosophical and literary works, providing a unique perspective that set him apart from other writers of his time.
Beijing is portrayed as a city that forces individuals to confront their mortality and the inevitability of failure. The harsh winters and the city's rigid social structure create an environment where life becomes more serious and introspective. This atmosphere has inspired some of the most profound literary works, as writers grapple with themes of existence, loss, and identity in the face of an unyielding urban landscape.
For Shi Tiesheng, the concept of 'hometown' is both physical and spiritual. Qingpingwan serves as a physical representation of his roots, while his mother and the memories associated with her provide a spiritual anchor. This duality allows him to explore themes of belonging, loss, and identity in a deeply personal and universal way, making his work resonate with readers who also grapple with their own sense of place and identity.
Shi Tiesheng's work resonates today because it addresses universal themes of suffering, resilience, and the search for meaning in the face of adversity. In a post-pandemic world marked by economic uncertainty and personal struggles, his writings offer a profound reflection on how individuals can find strength and purpose amidst hardship. His ability to blend personal experience with philosophical inquiry makes his work timeless and deeply relevant.
这一期是到播客节目“面基”串台,老钱热情洋溢地对我进行了大概两个多小时地访谈,聊过去一年走过的文学之路。他的节目制作非常精良,大家可以去听一听,称得上提前预定了2025年中文播客界的年度十佳。 我自己剪辑的这个版本侧重于我自己的表达,分成上下两个部分。上期侧重于路遥和史铁生的文学之路,虽近亦远,下期是论述地坛是如何被史铁生变成一个海德格尔空间的。