Core Viewpoint - The rise of popular literature reflects the spirit of the era and the cultural choices of the masses, emphasizing the importance of cultural participation for individual fulfillment and national rejuvenation [1][4]. Group 1: Historical Context - The concept of popular literature has deep roots in the history of modern Chinese literature, embodying the Marxist literary theory's localization in China and the Party's cultural policies [1][2]. - The 1930s "popular literature" movement focused on creating works for workers and farmers, aiming to elevate public consciousness through art [1]. Group 2: Current Trends - China's unique modernization has rapidly transformed the nation, achieving a comprehensive moderately prosperous society and embarking on a new journey towards socialist modernization [2]. - The digital revolution has empowered creators, allowing anyone with passion to share their stories, leading to a blend of professional and popular literature [2][3]. Group 3: Cultural Support - There are over 30 million online literature authors in China, producing 150 million words daily, alongside a short video user base of 1.04 billion, showcasing a vibrant landscape of non-professional creators [3]. - The younger generations, particularly those born in the 1990s and 2000s, are becoming the main force in popular literature, driven by cultural confidence and a desire for global engagement [3]. Group 4: Future Implications - The transformation of cultural participation by the masses is reshaping traditional literature, leading to a new cultural landscape that promotes comprehensive human development [4]. - The vitality of new popular literature reflects the confidence of the Chinese people in their development path and their recognition of shared values and ideals [4][5].

Core Insights - A new wave of popular literature and arts is emerging in contemporary China, driven by digitalization and the internet, allowing everyone to create, publish, and be seen [1][2][3] Group 1: Cultural Development - The ideal of popularization of literature and arts and the dream of a strong socialist cultural nation are becoming a reality in China [1][2] - The number of internet users in China is projected to reach 1.123 billion by June 2025, with an internet penetration rate of 79.7%, maintaining the top position globally [1] - Digital technology is bridging the urban-rural digital divide, facilitating the popularization of literature and arts [1] Group 2: New Literary Era - The new era of popular literature signifies a historic leap in cultural rights for the Chinese people, with over 1.4 billion individuals having access to channels for artistic expression [2] - Internet technology and new media are transforming literary forms, injecting vitality into contemporary culture [2][3] - The rise of micro-short dramas has created a market scale comparable to that of box office films within just five years, with a user base exceeding 662 million [3] Group 3: Cultural Innovation - The rapid evolution of internet literature has led to the emergence of over 200 genres and numerous sub-genres within 20 years, showcasing an unprecedented pace of cultural evolution [5] - The new popular literature is becoming a vital force in mainstream culture, blending popular and refined cultural elements to create a dynamic cultural ecosystem [3][4] - The "new popular literature" movement is broadening the base of artistic creation, allowing for diverse talents to emerge and thrive [4]

Core Perspective - The article discusses the importance of new popular literature and art in the context of the internet era, emphasizing the need for these works to better reach and embrace the public [1] Group 1: New Popular Literature and Art - New popular literature and art is characterized by high public participation and media integration, representing a significant transformation in aesthetic paradigms, dissemination mechanisms, and audience engagement [2] - The Shanghai Pingtan Troupe's extensive performance schedule of 4,500 shows per year indicates the enduring vitality of traditional art forms like Pingtan, while also exploring new styles and emotional expressions [2] - The integration of traditional and modern elements in literature and performing arts is seen as a new exploration, with examples like the adaptation of literary IPs into films [2] Group 2: Artistic Integrity and Public Engagement - The goal of artists should be to express truth, goodness, and beauty, with the emotional impact of their works stemming from their ability to resonate with the audience's inner values [2] - The concept of "popularization of literature and art" is highlighted, suggesting that future efforts should focus on enhancing public aesthetic education and appreciation [2] - The success of academically rigorous exhibitions, such as those at the Pudong Art Museum, demonstrates the public's acceptance of elite culture, indicating a potential for elevating aesthetic tastes and cognitive abilities among the audience [2]