CRI听力:China Proud of Nobel Literature Laureate from Home Soil

The China Writers Association has said Mo Yan's winning shows the world's recognition of China's contemporary literature.

Peter Englund, the Permanent Secretary of the Swedish Academy also spoke highly of Mo Yan's works.

"He's quite an outstanding author but also because he gives us a sort of unique insight into a unique world in a unique manner. It was a long time since I read anything like it."

Mo Yan though said he was "very surprised" at winning the Nobel Literature Prize.

"I think I will be busy with social activities and interviews during the next few weeks, but this won't last long. Attitude is important. I should not regard it as a big deal, it is just a prize. There are many talented writers in China, and winning the prize doesn't mean I am the best writer. I should have a sober mind."

A senior editor of Beijing Morning Post said Mo's win will further encourage young writers to focus on literary works.

"For a long period of time, we had regarded Nobel Prize in Literature as being so distinguished that ordinary writers could hardly get any chance to win. However, Mo Yan's success has changed our mindset. I hope more young writers can be inspired to cultivate in pure literary works. Publishers may also take more interest in releasing their works."

Many Chinese people are showing their pride over the prize having been awarded to a writer from their home soil.
Hu Yanyu, a financial officer said Mo Yan's success is worth congratulating.

"I think this is something for us Chinese to be proud of. His works such as "Red Sorghum" and "Big Breasts and Wide Hips" tell the stories of life on the farm. I think this sends a signal that the foreign mainstream culture is now accepting Chinese culture, so I think this is very gratifying and worth congratulating."

Zheng Qingcheng is a Chinese reader.

"I am proud of him as Chinese. I saw the news just now. The Nobel Prize is a world class prize. He is great. I am so happy for him."

Mo Yan, whose real name is Guan Moye, was nominated along with Canada's Alice Munro and Japanese novelist Haruki Murakami.

The awarding ceremony is due to be held December 10th where prize winners receive their medals, a personal diploma and about 1-million-US-dollars cash award.

For CRI, I am Wei Tong.