In a world where cultural exchanges often remain confined to superficial interactions, some individuals strive to dive deeper, forging genuine connections that transcend borders. Francisco Ford Hardman, a 72-year-old Brazilian professor at the State University of Campinas, is one such person. His journey is not just about understanding China from an academic standpoint but also immersing himself in its rich, intricate tapestry of life, culture, and people.
The Unexpected Voyage of a Literary Explorer
Hardman’s first encounter with China was in 2013, when he attended a conference on Brazilian literature and culture at the University of Macau. This initial visit, which included a brief stop in Beijing, sparked a fascination that would see him return to China five more times. But it was his experience as a guest professor at Beijing Foreign Studies University in 2019 that truly deepened his connection to the country. The role, which initially appeared to be a straightforward academic appointment, evolved into a profound personal journey, especially when the COVID-19 pandemic began in early 2020.
During this period, while the world was grappling with uncertainty, Hardman found solace in the camaraderie and warmth of his Chinese colleagues and students. This solidarity witnessed during such trying times inspired him to document his experiences and perceptions of China. What began as a simple request from a Brazilian newspaper to write about his life in China eventually blossomed into a collection of 15 diaries. These entries, detailing his travels across China, were initially published in the university's newspaper, capturing the interest of both his Brazilian and Chinese audiences.
Hardman's writings offered a unique perspective. His stories provided a window into the everyday lives of Chinese people, illustrating the kindness and resilience he encountered. Whether it was navigating the bustling streets of Beijing or visiting the tranquil landscapes of Yunnan, Hardman’s observations went beyond the surface.
Discovering China Through New Eyes
The success of Hardman's diary attracted the attention of Peking University Press, which proposed to compile these works into a book. This was an opportunity for Hardman to share his journey with a wider audience. The bilingual Chinese-Portuguese version of this book is named "Chinese Diary: Brazilians' View of the Real China." He used straightforward and vivid language to resonate with readers and make the streets, voices, and Chinese people in his eyes move.
In his writings, Hardman did not shy away from exploring the complexities and contradictions of modern China. He wrote about the three-wheeled bicycles that roamed the streets. These tricycles, a common sight in both cities and rural areas, fascinated Hardman as they embodied the unique blend of old and new that characterizes much of China's landscape. Whether used for transporting goods or as a means of personal travel, these humble vehicles became a recurring motif in his reflections, symbolizing the enduring spirit of the Chinese people.
What made Hardman’s accounts stand out was not just his attention to detail but his ability to convey the emotions tied to his experiences. He recounted how, during his walks through Beijing, he never felt like a stranger. The kindness of the people he met, whether they were fellow academics or locals on the street, made him feel at home in a foreign land. Hardman compares the close ties between Brazil and China to the friendships he has forged, highlighting the similarities in the values and warmth shared by both nations.
A Lasting Connection: The Legacy of Cultural Exchange
Hardman’s story is a testament to the power of cultural exchange and the profound impact it can have on both individuals and nations. His decision to return to Peking University in May 2024 as a guest professor once again underscores his deep-rooted connection to China. This return was not merely a professional obligation but a heartfelt reunion with friends and colleagues who had become an integral part of his life. These experiences strengthened his belief that the relationship between Brazil and China is not just diplomatic or economic but also deeply personal. The friendships he cultivated serve as a microcosm of the broader ties between the two nations.
In his book, "My Tropical China: Travel Diaries," published later in Brazil, Hardman continued to share his experiences. The title itself reflects the unique lens through which he views China—not as a distant, foreign land, but as a place that feels as familiar and vibrant as his homeland. The book became a bridge, connecting Brazilian readers to the nuances of Chinese life that often go unnoticed in typical travelogues.
Hardman’s narrative also touches on the transformative power of travel and cultural immersion. He emphasizes how his time in China has enriched his understanding of the world and, in turn, has allowed him to contribute to a more nuanced global discourse. His work challenges the stereotypes and misconceptions that often color perceptions of foreign cultures, offering instead a portrait of China that is as complex and diverse as the country itself.
As Hardman reflects on his years spent exploring China, he often returns to a single, symbolic object: the Chinese flag that now rests on a shelf in his study back in Brazil. This flag, which he brought home during the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China in 2019, is more than just a souvenir. For Hardman, this flag represents the essence of his journey—a journey not just across a vast and diverse country but also into the hearts of its people. It is a symbol of the enduring friendships he has formed and the cultural bridges he has helped to build. This connection between Brazil and China, forged through shared experiences and mutual respect, is a testament to the power of cultural exchange in an increasingly interconnected world.
In the end, Hardman’s story is not just about one man’s journey; it is about the possibilities that open up when we approach the world with curiosity and an open heart. His experiences remind us that, no matter how different our backgrounds may be, there is always common ground to be found, and in those shared spaces, we can build lasting, meaningful relationships. Through his writings, Hardman has shown that the real beauty of travel lies not just in discovering new places but in finding new ways of seeing the world—and each other.
