Core Viewpoint - Anti-war literature in China serves as a profound spiritual epic, reflecting the resilience and spirit of the Chinese nation during the 14 years of the War of Resistance against Japan, starting from the September 18 Incident [5][6][10]. Group 1: Historical Context and Significance - The War of Resistance against Japan not only forged the will and spirit of the Chinese people but also gave rise to a unique genre of literature that bears historical significance [5][6]. - Anti-war literature is characterized as a strategic cultural counteroffensive led by the Chinese Communist Party, highlighting the role of writers in documenting the struggles and sacrifices during the war [6][10]. Group 2: Themes in Anti-war Literature - The literature addresses the questioning and exploration of national fate, exemplified by works like Lao She's "Four Generations Under One Roof," which symbolizes the collapse of traditional society under the violence of war [7]. - It also captures the suffering of the nation, with contrasting depictions in works like Xiao Jun's "August Village" and Xiao Hong's "The Field of Death," showcasing the impact of war on individual lives and society [7][8]. Group 3: Literary Techniques and Impact - The literature employs stark realism to critique the violence of war, as seen in A Lang's "Nanjing Blood Sacrifice," which serves as a powerful indictment of the atrocities committed during the Nanjing Massacre [8]. - Anti-war literature has played a crucial role in awakening national consciousness, embedding the idea of collective responsibility in the hearts of the people [10][11]. Group 4: Cultural Mobilization - The literature became a tool for mobilizing the masses, with works like Zhao Shuli's "Little Erhei Gets Married" making revolutionary narratives accessible to the rural population [12]. - The imagery of the red flag evolved from a concrete symbol to an emblem of the anti-war spirit, as illustrated in works like Zhou Libo's "Stormy Rain" [12]. Group 5: Performance and Community Engagement - Street plays and wall poetry during the war created a unique literary landscape, engaging audiences in a participatory manner that blurred the lines between performers and spectators [13]. - The collective experience of performances, such as the street play "Put Down Your Whip," fostered a sense of unity and urgency in the fight against Japanese imperialism [13][14]. Group 6: Legacy and Cultural Memory - The enduring impact of anti-war literature is evident in its ability to resonate across generations, as seen in the communal experiences during the re-screening of films like "Tunnel Warfare" [14]. - These literary works not only represent artistic achievements but also serve as a cultural self-rescue plan for the Chinese nation during a time of existential crisis [14].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the life and contributions of Tian Hua, a 97-year-old artist honored as a "People's Artist," emphasizing her dedication to art and the people throughout her 80-year career [3][8]. Group 1: Background and Early Life - Tian Hua was born in 1928 in a poor farming family in Tang County, Hebei, during a smallpox outbreak, leading to her being named "Tianhua" [3][4]. - Her mother passed away due to overwork and illness, leaving Tian Hua with a deep sense of loss and a desire to understand her family's history [3][4]. Group 2: Artistic Journey - In 1939, at the age of 11, Tian Hua joined the Anti-Japanese Drama Troupe, where she was encouraged to adopt the stage name "Tian Hua" [5]. - The troupe faced harsh conditions, performing in various locations while engaging in guerrilla warfare against Japanese forces [6][7]. Group 3: Impact of War on Art - Tian Hua's performances often took place in front of soldiers, some of whom later died in battle, creating a profound emotional connection between her art and the experiences of the audience [6][7]. - She recalls a particularly memorable performance where she sang to soldiers in a cave, providing them with emotional support during dire circumstances [7]. Group 4: Legacy and Philosophy - Tian Hua believes that the title "People's Artist" belongs not just to her but to the Anti-Japanese Drama Troupe and all artists dedicated to serving the people [8]. - Her commitment to the arts is rooted in her experiences during the war, and she emphasizes the importance of being grounded in the lives of the people to keep art vibrant and relevant [8].

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the significant role of theater and art in uniting the Chinese people during the Anti-Japanese War, showcasing how various performances inspired collective action and national consciousness [5][8][12]. Group 1: Historical Context - The Anti-Japanese War prompted a surge in theatrical productions, with street plays and operas becoming vital tools for mobilizing public sentiment against invaders [6][7]. - Notable works like "The White-Haired Girl" and "Defending Lugou Bridge" resonated deeply with audiences, reflecting the struggles and aspirations of the people during wartime [6][9]. Group 2: The Role of Art and Theater - Theater served as a battlefield, with performances acting as weapons to inspire and galvanize the masses, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose [13][14]. - The creative output from institutions like the Lu Xun Academy of Arts (鲁艺) was characterized by a focus on real-life experiences, capturing the essence of the people's struggles and triumphs [11][12]. Group 3: Impact on Society - The emotional connection established through performances led to increased participation in the war effort, with audiences feeling compelled to act in solidarity with the characters portrayed on stage [13][14]. - The portrayal of ordinary individuals as heroes in plays helped to elevate the collective spirit, encouraging a sense of agency among the populace [12][15]. Group 4: Legacy and Reflection - The legacy of wartime theater continues to resonate, with modern adaptations and performances honoring the spirit of resistance and the sacrifices made during the Anti-Japanese War [16][18]. - The article underscores the importance of remembering and celebrating these artistic contributions as a means of preserving national identity and collective memory [16][19].

Core Viewpoint - The article explores the evolution and significance of labor songs in Chinese culture, highlighting their role in expressing the spirit of resilience and hard work throughout history [1][4]. Group 1: Historical Context - Labor songs, such as the earliest form "lifting encouragement song," have been part of Chinese culture since ancient times, as recorded in texts like "Lüshi Chunqiu" and "Shijing" [1]. - The tradition of singing during labor has been a way for Chinese people to express their life wisdom and collective spirit over the centuries [1]. Group 2: Types of Labor Songs - "Haozi" (labor songs) serve as a direct expression of workers' lives, with various types corresponding to different labor activities, such as boatmen's songs and agricultural work songs [2]. - "Mountain songs" represent individual expressions of labor, characterized by rich content and free rhythm, often improvised and reflecting the laborers' experiences [2]. - "Short tunes" are more widely spread and cover various aspects of life, serving as a form of everyday expression in both urban and rural settings [3]. Group 3: Modern Developments - The transition from traditional agricultural society to modern production methods has led to new forms of labor music, with songs like "Zanmen Gongren You Liliang" emerging during the industrial era [4]. - Despite changes in labor methods and song forms, the essence of resilience and the spirit of the Chinese people remain embedded in these songs, as evidenced by contemporary performances that evoke strong emotional responses [4].