Xiong Yan's Journey to-The Ballad of White Water
In the sweltering August of 2024, renowned poet Xiong Yan (熊焱) surprised the literary world with his latest offering - not a collection of verses, but a sweeping 550,000-word novel titled "The Ballad of White Water." (白水谣) This unexpected turn from poetry to prose marks a significant milestone in Xiong's career, showcasing his versatility as a writer and his dedication to storytelling.
"The Ballad of White Water" is an ambitious work that spans a century, chronicling the lives of seven generations of a single family. The novel, divided into three parts, offers a panoramic view of Chinese history from the late Qing dynasty to the early 21st century. Each section focuses on a different generation, utilizing first-person narratives to provide unique perspectives on the family's journey through time.
Xiong's transition from poetry to long-form fiction was not without its challenges. The author admits that the novel took seven years to complete, with periods of writing interspersed with long pauses. "At times, it felt like an abandoned project," Xiong confesses. "Even now, I can only say it's 'barely' finished." However, his editor, An Ran, sees it differently, praising the novel for its intricate storytelling and vivid portrayal of over a hundred years of Chinese history.
The novel's structure is as complex as the history it depicts. The first part begins in the 1950s, narrated by a fourth-generation family member. The middle section, told from the perspective of a third-generation character, delves into the family's origins before circling back to the eve of China's Reform and Opening-up period. The final part, narrated by a sixth-generation family member, spans from the 1990s to the 2010s, exploring individual struggles amidst rapid societal changes.
Xiong's poetic background is evident in the lyrical prose that permeates the novel. He describes his approach to writing as a delicate balance between poetic expression and narrative drive. "As a poet writing fiction, one must be wary of excessive lyricism," Xiong explains. "If not handled well, it can turn into an ocean of language, failing to hint at and present more space in the narrative."
The author's definition of poetic quality in prose is twofold. First, it's the power of language - the friction, pressure, and tension created by words, phrases, and sentences that construct a unique rhythm, mood, atmosphere, and artistic conception. Second, it's the supreme power of the soul - the connotation, meaning, and spirit constructed by emotions and thoughts that resonate with readers and stimulate spiritual vibrations.
Weaving History and Fiction: The Art of Crafting a Family Saga
Xiong's journey from poetry to novel writing reflects a broader trend in Chinese literature, reminiscent of the path taken by acclaimed author A Lai. However, Xiong is quick to point out that each writer's path is unique. "A Lai is a role model for me, but his creative path is not replicable," he says. "Every writer has their own destiny and creation."
Xiong plans to continue writing both poetry and novels. He's already conceptualizing his next long-form work, which will be set in Chengdu. As for poetry, Xiong asserts it will always be a part of his life. "Poetry writing is a kind of authenticity of my life, it's the salt in the depths of my blood," he muses. "It seasons the most indispensable flavor in my soul."
"The Ballad of White Water" is more than just a family saga; it's a reflection on the nature of time, history, and individual responsibility. Through his characters' experiences, Xiong explores how ordinary people navigate extraordinary times, their personal struggles mirroring the larger societal changes around them.
As readers delve into the pages of "The Ballad of White Water," they are invited to reflect on their own place in history. Xiong's novel serves as a reminder that we are all part of a larger narrative, our individual stories woven into the fabric of time. It challenges us to consider how we, like the characters in the novel, can maintain our humanity and personal truths in the face of sweeping historical forces.
In crafting this multigenerational tale, Xiong Yan has not only created a compelling work of fiction but also made a significant contribution to the ongoing dialogue about Chinese identity and history. "The Ballad of White Water" stands as a testament to the power of storytelling to bridge the gap between past and present, inviting readers to see themselves as part of an unbroken chain of human experience.
