Group 1 - The 2012 Nobel Prize in Literature was awarded to Mo Yan, making him the first Chinese writer to receive this honor [1] - Following the award, Mo Yan's works, including "Red Sorghum," were translated into Arabic and gained popularity in Egypt and other Arab countries, with over 30 Chinese literary works translated by Egyptian sinologist Hossain Fahmy [1] - Hossain Fahmy's interest in Chinese culture stems from historical connections between Egypt and China, both being ancient civilizations that have faced challenges, fostering a cultural resonance among Egyptian readers [1] Group 2 - Hossain Fahmy attended the Nanguo Book Festival in Guangzhou, expressing a desire to showcase the rich culture of Guangdong to the Egyptian audience [2] - He noted that while Egyptians are aware of cities like Guangzhou and Shenzhen due to their economic success, there is also a need to explore and promote the culinary culture of the Lingnan region [2] - Fahmy received several invitations from writers and publishers during the event, indicating potential future collaborations to translate and promote suitable works to the Arab world [2]

Core Perspective - The adaptation of Yu Hua's short story "Classical Love" into a stage play by Meng Jinghui represents their third collaboration, following "To Live" and "The Seventh Day," highlighting the theme of personal fate amidst the backdrop of a grand era [1][3]. Summary by Sections Adaptation and Performance - "Classical Love" premiered at the 2025 Anaya Theatre Festival, with tickets selling out quickly and the opening delayed due to long entry lines [3]. - The stage design features modern elements, creating an abstract maze-like environment, while the music blends electronic and classical styles to enhance the emotional depth of the narrative [3][7]. - The play will return to Beijing's Hive Theatre from August 6 to 10, continuing to explore reality through its performances [3]. Author's Reflection - Yu Hua reminisces about his writing process for "Classical Love," noting that it was a parody of popular literary forms of the time, diverging from traditional narratives to explore unexpected outcomes [5][8]. - The story revolves around the tragic love between Liu Sheng and Miss Hui, culminating in themes of despair and the futility of hope, reflecting contemporary human experiences [5][7]. Thematic Exploration - The adaptation intertwines elements from Yu Hua's other work "Blood Plum Blossom," creating a narrative that traverses time and space, while presenting a postmodern sense of nihilism [7]. - The play's emotional impact is evident, as audience reactions include expressions of sorrow and despair, indicating its resonance with modern societal issues [7]. Artistic Philosophy - Both Yu Hua and Meng Jinghui are recognized as avant-garde figures in the cultural sphere, with Meng emphasizing that the essence of avant-garde lies in its posture rather than its outcomes [9]. - Yu Hua believes that the core of a literary or theatrical work is its treatment of time, which serves as the soul of the narrative [10]. Contemporary Relevance - The themes of "Classical Love" resonate with the feelings of disillusionment and existential angst prevalent among today's youth, reflecting a broader societal malaise [11]. - Yu Hua's philosophy on life emphasizes endurance and acceptance of fate, suggesting that the strength of existence lies in resilience rather than aggression [11].