Food delivery rider wins China's top literary prize

Food delivery rider Wang Jibing has won China’s top literary prize, the Lu Xun Literary Award, for his collection of poems titled Low Flight. The award, named after the revered 20th-century writer Lu Xun, recognizes works that reflect the struggles and resilience of ordinary people. Wang, 56, is a delivery rider who began working in the gig economy around 2019. His poems, often written on scraps of paper during breaks between deliveries, capture the daily hardships faced by workers in China’s vast platform-based labor system. Wang’s collection, Low Flight, was inspired by interviews and surveys with approximately 200 delivery riders. One of the poems included in the book reads, “Who says spreading your wings means flying high? Flying low is also flying.” This sentiment echoes the experiences of many gig workers who navigate unpredictable schedules, long hours, and minimal benefits while maintaining a sense of purpose through creative expression. The poem Man in a Hurry, which went viral in 2022, was inspired by a frustrating delivery in 2019 when a customer entered the wrong address, causing delays and stress. Wang’s journey from a teenage dropout to a published poet reflects broader trends in contemporary Chinese society. Born in Jiangsu province, he left school at a young age due to family financial difficulties. Over the years, he worked in construction, scavenged for recyclables, and sold goods from a street stall before taking up food delivery. Despite these early challenges, he maintained a passion for reading and writing, eventually sharing his work online. His poems and essays gained traction on social media, leading to increased recognition and ultimately the Lu Xun Literary Prize. The award, which carries a monetary value estimated at around 100,000 Chinese yuan ($14,800; £11,000) as of 2014, marks a rare achievement for someone outside the traditional literary establishment. Wang expressed mixed emotions upon learning of his win, telling state media outlet Global Times that he felt “extremely nervous” and “held my breath” during the announcement. While the media attention brought new opportunities, he admitted it also created psychological strain. “I want a down-to-earth life and the award will never change who I am,” he said, emphasizing his commitment to continuing his work as a delivery rider until he reaches 60. Wang’s success is part of a growing movement of blue-collar workers contributing to Chinese literature. In 2023, I Deliver Parcels in Beijing, a memoir by former courier Hu Anyan, became a bestseller both domestically and internationally. Its English translation was released later that year, highlighting the increasing visibility of such narratives. Similarly, Fan Yusu’s autobiographical essay I Am Fan Yusu sparked widespread discussion in 2017, drawing intense public interest and even forcing the author to relocate temporarily due to the volume of media inquiries. Lu Xun, the namesake of the literary prize, is regarded as one of China’s most influential writers of the 20th century. Known for his sharp critiques of traditional Chinese society, his works continue to resonate with younger generations. For instance, the character Kong Yiji from his novel has become a cultural symbol of disillusionment among Chinese youth facing economic uncertainty. Wang’s work aligns with this tradition, offering a raw and honest portrayal of life in the gig economy. His poems provide insight into the emotional and physical toll of gig work while celebrating the dignity and creativity of those who engage in it.