Author Yang Shuang-zi in Seoul: Hoping to Make Taiwan Seen Through Literature

Central News Agency, Seoul, June 1. Taiwanese author Yang Shuang-zi held a media session in Seoul today, mentioning that she received positive encouragement from former President Tsai Ing-wen before her trip to the UK. Yang also pointed out that Taiwan's current situation is very dangerous and expressed her hope that literature can help the world recognize Taiwan. Yang and translator Goldie Golden (Jin Ling) won the International Booker Prize last month for the novel 'Taiwan Travelogue.' Yang has been in Seoul since May 28 for a series of events. Reflecting on the award, Yang spoke from two perspectives: as a 'literary researcher' and a 'novelist.' She noted that the award was won together with translator Jin Ling, stating, 'As a researcher, I believed she would win, which is why I won.' She also believed that the award was a result of their unique collaboration on this specific book. As a novelist, Yang said, 'My feeling is quite simple: I really wanted to win this award for Taiwan.' She told the media that given Taiwan's dangerous and high-pressure international situation, 'I really hope that in such a situation, more facets of Taiwan can be recognized by people around the world. I think literature is a very good way to do that.' Yang mentioned that before heading to London for the ceremony, she met with former President Tsai Ing-wen, who also sponsored part of her travel expenses. Yang said, 'I had a question I really wanted to ask her: I really want to win this award for Taiwan, but is this mindset healthy?' However, Tsai immediately replied, 'Why would that thought be unhealthy?' Yang felt that Tsai also believes in showing Taiwan's diverse faces to the world. Yang concluded, 'As a novelist, I am very happy to win, and at the same time, I am very much looking forward to seeing more Taiwanese literature being seen by the rest of the world.'