Core Idea - The core idea of realism in creation is the pursuit of truth, which should go beyond merely representing the surface reality of social life. It requires a poet's perspective to seek the truth of characters' inner lives and an ethnographic approach to explore the cultural causes behind social life [1][2]. Group 1: Cultural Understanding and Exploration - The work of Nobel Prize-winning Hungarian author Laszlo exemplifies the importance of understanding cultural forms. He opposes a Eurocentric view of culture, advocating for the recognition of human culture as a collective memory of all ethnic groups [3][4]. - Laszlo's admiration for Chinese culture is evident in his appreciation for Laozi's "Tao Te Ching" and the "Book of Songs" compiled by Confucius, which he believes opened the path for the diversification of Chinese literature [4]. - His exploration of the cultural context that produced the poet Li Bai involved visiting multiple cities in China, highlighting the significance of understanding the cultural environment that shapes individual character [4]. Group 2: Ethnographic Approach in Cultural Analysis - The example of American cultural anthropologist Clifford Geertz illustrates the importance of deep engagement in different cultures through fieldwork. His study of the cockfighting culture in Bali emphasizes that understanding social behavior requires interpreting the meanings of cultural symbols [5]. - The discussion emphasizes that in a globalized era, incorporating diverse perspectives in realism can enhance the exploration of cultural causes behind social phenomena and the inner truths of individuals [5]. Group 3: Innovations in Narrative Structure - Traditional narrative structures are characterized by linear time, causal logic, clear conflict, and a complete closure. The article discusses the potential for breaking these conventions to allow for more innovative storytelling [6][7]. - The concept of leaving open-ended interpretations, as seen in poetry and films like "Rashomon," encourages a broader understanding of narratives beyond strict cause-and-effect relationships [7]. - The call for a return to a combination of realism and classic narrative forms suggests that contemporary literature and art should draw from various innovative achievements to create significant works that resonate with the current era [7].

Core Insights - The significant interception of 1.83 million LABUBU counterfeit products by Chinese customs highlights a deeper issue within the global supply chain and consumer culture, reflecting a crisis of trust in cultural symbols rather than just market share [1][2][3] Group 1: Cultural Symbolism and Market Impact - LABUBU's popularity represents a collective construction of cultural symbols, where consumers are willing to pay a premium for identity and belonging rather than just the physical product [2] - The influx of counterfeit products undermines the scarcity and purity of cultural symbols, leading to a potential erosion of consumer trust in these symbols [2][3] - The crisis of trust extends beyond individual brands to the entire category, questioning the reliability of the value system that supports cultural products [3] Group 2: Environmental and Regulatory Challenges - The implementation of the EU's Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) requires manufacturers to prove compliance throughout the product lifecycle, posing a significant challenge for the Chinese toy industry [5] - LABUBU's production has seen a 23% increase in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emissions compared to previous generations, raising concerns about environmental impact [5] - The average consumer generates 4.3 kg of packaging waste when collecting the full LABUBU series, contributing to long-term environmental issues [5] Group 3: ESG Initiatives and Future Directions - In response to environmental challenges, the company has announced plans to launch products made from 55% recycled materials and implement various sustainability measures [7] - However, the current improvements are seen as "remedial innovations" that do not address the fundamental conflicts between the blind box economy and sustainability [9] - To truly bridge the ESG gap, the company must restructure its consumption logic, enhance transparency in its supply chain, and redefine the core value of its intellectual property [9][10]