Food Delivery Rider Wang Jibing Awarded China's Prestigious Lu Xun Literary Prize

Wang Jibing, a 37-year-old food delivery rider, has been awarded the Lu Xun Literary Prize, one of China's most prestigious literary honours. This recognition places Wang, who hails from Jiangsu province, among an increasing number of working-class individuals gaining national attention for their literary contributions.

Wang's winning collection of essays, titled 'My Name is Wang Jibing', chronicles his experiences and observations from various manual labour jobs. He began writing poetry in 2010 while working in a factory, later transitioning to essays during his time as a food delivery driver, documenting the daily realities of his profession.

The Lu Xun Literary Prize, established in 1997, is awarded every four years. Its acknowledgement of Wang Jibing highlights a broader cultural trend in China, where individuals from diverse working backgrounds are finding platforms for their creative expression. This development challenges traditional notions of literary authorship, underscoring the rich narratives emerging from the nation's vast labour force.