Step back to the 1940s in Beijing and discover the pulse of a city in transformation. Liu Heping’s novel All Quiet in Peking unfolds amid the tumult of 1940s Beijing, painting vivid portraits of everyday life against the sweep of history.
At Beijing Foreign Studies University, translator and professor Teng Jimeng recently introduced this modern classic, inviting readers to journey through its pages and reflect on the forces that shape societies over time.
“It explains the very true essence, the very historical cycle which we witness in ancient Chinese history, and also in modern Chinese history. The cycle now is on the Chinese side. The ebb, the tide is on the Chinese side. And we will contribute to the peace of the world,” Teng reflects.
Why It Matters Today
- Historical rhythms: By tracing cycles of change in Beijing’s past, readers connect the dots between uprising, renewal, and resilience.
- Global resonance: Themes of hope and rebuilding echo across continents, inspiring young global citizens to learn from history.
- Cultural bridge: Translation turns local stories into universal insights, fostering cross-border empathy and dialogue.
In an era of rapid innovation and shifting geopolitics, revisiting the ebb and tide of history can light a path toward lasting peace. Dive into All Quiet in Peking and witness how yesterday’s stories guide tomorrow’s progress.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
